Columbia State Community College is Tennessee’s first two-year college, with five convenient campuses and offering more than 50 programs of study. Every year hundreds of students graduate, and either join the workforce in their field or move on to a four-year school.
Columbia State offers both online and in-class courses, in both credit and non-credit formats. Columbia State is part of the TJCCAA sports association, and has nationally-recognized baseball, softball and basketball teams. The college is also home to popular Middle Tennessee arts venues, such as the Cherry Theatre and the Pryor Art Gallery.
If you’re a prospective student, visit Why Columbia State?
Our History
Columbia State was founded in 1966, becoming the first community college in the Tennessee Board of Regents system. The college was temporarily housed in facilities throughout the city of Columbia until the present campus was completed. On March 15, 1967, Lady Bird Johnson,accompanied by President Lyndon B. Johnson, officially dedicated the new Columbia campus.
Lady Bird declared Columbia State to be the “new beat and rhythm of our land” and that “when a community college rises from a once empty field, the country expands not outward, but upward… I am honored to dedicate this college - dedicate it forever to the service of the people and the progress of our nation.”
That day, forty years ago, President Johnson also addressed the dedication ceremony attendees - a crowd of more than 8,000. Many who still live in Columbia and the surrounding area love to tell their stories of that day. They share fond remembrances as if the Johnsons were here just yesterday.
Columbia State’s proud history shines through into today’s academics. Students, faculty and staff hold their heads high and are extremely proud to be part of such wonderful history and tradition.
The college now serves close to 10,000 students per year in credit and continuing education courses and awards more than $10 million in financial aid. Five academic divisions offer students more than 50 programs of study and the opportunity to earn a certificate, associate of arts (A.A), associate of science (A.S.) or associate of applied science degree (A.A.S.). In addition to the Columbia campus, the college has campuses in Lawrenceburg, Lewisburg, Clifton and Franklin.
College Statistics
- Mascot: Chargers
- President: Dr. Janet F. Smith
- Service Area (by county): Giles County, Hickman County, Lawrence County, Lewis County, Marshall County, Maury County, Perry County, Wayne County, Williamson County
- Accreditation: Columbia State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (write 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033; or call 404-679-4501) to award the associate degree.
- Tuition and fees can be found on the Admissions or Financial Aid site.
Additional College Facts...