OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Imagine turning classroom theory into real-world experience with top companies like L’Oréal, NASCAR, and Hilton Hotels and Resorts. Columbia College Chicago doesn’t just teach creative disciplines; we connect you to the industries that use them. Working with our vast network of industry partners can help you get a head start on your career, including:
Columbia College Chicago gives you access to the creative world you’re passionate about. Forget textbook scenarios—you’ll gain practical experience by collaborating with industry professionals on real-world projects. These collaborations allow you to apply your skills in a tangible way and offer valuable industry exposure through internships and project partnerships.
Your projects and experiences at Columbia will feed directly into your portfolio.
You’ll create a collection of work that showcases your talent, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities—all directly relevant to your desired industry. This will become your calling card, setting you apart from the competition when you apply for jobs or freelance opportunities.
At Columbia, you’ll be surrounded by inspiring peers, dedicated faculty, and industry professionals. These connections create a powerful network that can open doors to future opportunities.
You’ll build lasting relationships with classmates, mentors, and industry partners that can lead to job recommendations, collaborations, and a supportive network as you launch your career.
Students at Columbia College Chicago learn the art and business of design thanks to partnership with gift bag seller Dipak and marketing firm Madak.
In this Columbia-produced video, students in Kevin Christophersen’s “Agency” class discuss the marketing strategies, ads, social media plans, and other deliverables they developed to created integrated campaigns for real-world startup clients.
Business and Entrepreneurship students take their education beyond the classroom each year at SXSW, gaining practical experience working with real clients.
Columbia bridges the classroom and career by partnering with industry leaders, like those behind Unleashed 2023’s activations, where Business and Entrepreneurship students received course credit for their hands-on planning and design work.
Columbia students collaborate with Joe & Bella to develop innovative apparel for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes, with the company selecting one piece to produce and sell on their website.
Columbia College Chicago were named the U.S. winners of L’Oréal Brandstorm, an annual international student competition that gives students the chance to tackle a real business case, gain new skills, and engage with industry experts.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race partnered with Columbia students to create family-friendly interactive digital activities and a print publication for the Chicago street race.
Fannie May Chocolates unveiled the newest iteration of their Chicago Line. The packaging is designed by Illustration alum Katelyn McManis ‘22 and features the city’s most iconic landmarks. McManis was connected to this early career opportunity through The Career Center.