Columbia College announces academic reorganization to support institutional growth and community impact 

Columbia College announced a strategic academic reorganization that restructures its academic divisions into four new schools, a move designed to strengthen its academic foundation, enhance student success, and support the institution’s long-term growth goals, including the aspiration to serve 2,500 students by the end of the decade.

Approved by the Columbia College Board of Trustees and effective August 12, 2025, the restructuring streamlines the College’s academic framework while investing in key areas such as health sciences, graduate studies, and online education.

“This reorganization represents much more than a structural change – it’s a reflection of where Columbia College is headed,” said President Dr. John H. Dozier. “We are building a stronger, more focused academic identity that aligns with our mission, responds to workforce needs, and positions us to grow in both size and impact.”

The new academic structure includes the following four schools:

• School of Arts and Sciences, which unites the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences to foster inquiry, cultural literacy, and real-world problem solving.
• School of Business and Leadership, focused on innovation, professional readiness, and leadership development across sectors.
• School of Education, reinforcing the College’s longstanding legacy in teacher preparation while introducing a new Center for Education Innovation.
• School of Health Sciences, representing a significant new investment in allied health education, addresses regional health and workforce needs.

In addition to the school realignments, the College will:

•  Create an Associate Dean of Graduate Studies position to oversee the coordination and support of all graduate programs.
• Transition all evening courses (except Social Work) to fully online beginning Fall 2025, reflecting changing student preferences and expanding access for adult learners.

“This reorganization strengthens our academic enterprise while honoring the values that have always defined Columbia College,” said Tim Arnold, Chair of the Columbia College Board of Trustees. “It allows us to grow with intention, attract new leadership, and remain deeply connected to the needs of our students and community.”

The announcement follows a series of coordinated changes within the Division of Academic Affairs designed to increase operational efficiency, enhance programmatic clarity, and expand student opportunities.

Columbia College will host a series of virtual Q&A sessions in the coming weeks for students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners to learn more about the changes and the vision behind them.

For more information, visit www.ColumbiaSC.edu/reorganization.

About Columbia College

Founded in 1854, Columbia College educates women and men to build successful careers and live lives of impact. The College’s liberal arts foundation ensures that students learn to think critically, develop their curiosity, and nurture a love for learning. With a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, Columbia College students benefit from individualized support, engaged instruction, and personal mentorship. With more than 30 undergraduate programs and eight graduate programs, students can discover and pursue their passion and purpose.