Overview
Enrollment
| Location | Columbia, South Carolina |
| Online | ciu.edu |
| School Type | Private 4 Year |
| Setting | Midsize City |
| Size | Small |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Columbia International University (CIU), situated in the capital city of Columbia, South Carolina, is a private, non-profit Christian university established in 1923. Known for its interdenominational evangelical heritage, CIU offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs with a strong theological and missionary emphasis, including popular majors in Religious Studies, Education, and Business Administration. The university's campus features a contemporary architectural style and provides residential facilities to accommodate students who opt for campus living. While CIU maintains a selective admissions process, it notably integrates a biblical worldview into all academic pursuits. The institution does not have a prominent focus on intercollegiate athletics; instead, it prioritizes a global perspective in education, preparing graduates for both professional careers and ministry service.
In the most recent statistical year 506 prospective students applied, and 244 were granted admission. Of those admitted 179 enrolled in the school. 745 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 1,736 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $25,620 plus fees of $1,220. Columbia International University is ranked 705 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Columbia International University is rated within the lower 44% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 5 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Columbia International University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#705 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#461 in Best Private Colleges in the U.S.
#10 in Best Colleges in South Carolina
#5 in Best Private Colleges in South Carolina
#18 in Best Value Colleges in South Carolina
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 990/1195 |
| ACT | 16/25 |
| GPA | 3.5 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Aug 1, 2025 |
| Applicant Competition | Average |
| Application Fee | $25 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $200 |
| Other Fees | $1,220 |
| Room and Board | $9,950 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $3,280 |
| Total One Year Cost | $40,270 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Theology and Religious Vvocations | 69% |
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 11% |
| Psychology | 7% |
| General Studies | 6% |
| Communication | 3% |
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Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Columbia International University.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=217925 IPEDS survey data for Columbia International University.
Current students may use the Columbia International University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024