Columbia is referred to as "College Town U.S.A." as it is the home to Missouri's largest public research University, two private colleges, and an excellent public school system.

Columbia Public Schools have earned the highest possible rating in Missouri and continues to receive state and national honors of excellence in education. Enrollment is more than 17,000 students with approximately 80% of high school graduates college bound. The pupil-teacher ratio is 19 to 1 district-wide. For more information, please contact the Columbia Public Schools, District Administration Building located at 1818 West Worley, 65203 (573-214-3400)

Fr. Tolton Catholic High School is Columbia's first Catholic high school. The high school opened its doors to freshmen and sophomores in the fall of 2011, and will be growing into grades 9-12 over the next two years. Offering a faith-based education along with a rigorous academic curriculum and a competitive athletic program, Fr. Tolton Catholic High School welcomes students of all faiths. For more information, visit the school at 3351 E. Gans Road, 65201 (573-445-7700)

The University of Missouri-Columbia was founded in 1839 as the first public university west of the Mississippi. A land-grant institution emphasizing service to Missourians, MU is Missouri's flagship university and the state's major research institution. Mizzou has a diverse enrollment with 32,341 students from every county in Missouri, every state in the nation and 106 countries. For more information, contact the University of Missouri-Columbia Visitor Relations at 104 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 (573-882-6333)

Columbia College proudly serves over 28,000 students each year at its Day Campus, Evening Campus, 34 Nationwide Campuses, Online Campus and Graduate Studies Program. The school offers associate, bachelor's and master's degrees through on-campus and online classes. Students may attend class on campus, online or both. Contact Columbia College at 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216 (573-875-7352)

Stephens College was founded in 1833 as Columbia's first higher learning institution. It is a private college and offers undergraduate education for women in the liberal arts and provides solid preparation in the performing arts and pre-professional fields. Historic Senior Hall and the Firestone Baars Chapel located on its campus are Columbia landmarks. For more information, contact Stephens College, 1200 East Broadway, Columbia, MO) 65215 (573-442-2211)