Columbia University is one of the top research and academic institutions in the world.
Founded in 1754 as King's College by royal charter of King George II of England, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of New York and the fifth oldest in the United States. What started in a schoolhouse in lower Manhatten has grown into two principle campuses. The first campus is the the historic, neoclassical campus in the Morningside Heights neighborhood, while the second is the modern Medical Center further uptown, in Washington Heights.
Today the University is conducting groundbreaking research in medicine, science, the arts, and the humanities. There are three undergraduate schools, thirteen graduate and professional schools, and a school of continuing education.
