| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Columbia International University (CIU) is a private Christian university located in Columbia, South Carolina, USA. Founded in 1923, CIU is known for its faith-based education, strong academic programs, and a commitment to spiritual and professional development.
Location: Columbia, South Carolina, USA
Founded: 1923
Type: Private Christian University
Campus Size: 400+ acres
Student Population: ~2,000 students (undergraduate & graduate)
Accreditation: Accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
Motto: "To Know Him and to Make Him Known"
CIU offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including:
Theology & Ministry – Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Leadership
Education – Early Childhood, Special Education, Leadership in Teaching
Business & Leadership – Business Administration, Organizational Leadership
Psychology & Counseling – Clinical Counseling, Family & Marriage Therapy
Intercultural Studies & Missions – Global Studies, Missionary Work
Communication & Media – Digital Media, Journalism
Health Sciences – Nursing, Healthcare Administration
Faith-Based Learning – CIU integrates Christian values into all courses.
Small Class Sizes – More personalized attention from professors.
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Generous financial aid options.
Global Outreach & Mission Work – Strong emphasis on international service.
Top-Ranked Online Programs – Flexible learning options for busy students.
Beautiful 400-acre campus in Columbia, SC
Ben Lippen School (K-12 Christian school affiliated with CIU)
Sports & Athletics – Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Track & Field
On-Campus Housing & Dining – Modern dorms and meal plans available
Chapel & Worship Services – Weekly faith-based gatherings
CIU provides Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), and Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degrees in various fields, including:
Bible & Ministry – Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Leadership, Youth Ministry
Business & Leadership – Business Administration, Organizational Leadership
Education – Early Childhood Education, Special Education
Psychology & Counseling – General Psychology, Human Services
Communication & Media – Digital Media & Cinema, Journalism
Health Sciences – Healthcare Administration, Pre-Nursing
Intercultural Studies & Missions – Global Studies, International Missions
Music & Worship Arts – Worship Leadership, Music Performance
CIU offers Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Education (M.Ed.), and Master of Divinity (M.Div.) programs designed to prepare students for professional and ministry-related careers. Some popular master’s programs include:
Theology & Ministry – Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Christian Ministry, Biblical Exposition
Counseling & Psychology – Clinical Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy
Education & Leadership – M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Administration
Business & Organizational Leadership – MBA, Organizational Leadership
Intercultural Studies & Missions – Global Migration Studies, Islamic Studies
For students pursuing advanced leadership and academic roles, CIU offers:
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Intercultural Studies
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biblical Studies
Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) in Leadership & Preaching
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biblical Studies (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Christian Ministry (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Pastoral Theology (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Youth Ministry (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Business Administration (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Organizational Leadership (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Psychology (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Human Services (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Early Childhood Education (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Special Education (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Healthcare Administration (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Pre-Nursing (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Intercultural Studies (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Global Studies (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Digital Media & Cinema (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Journalism (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Music & Worship Arts (B.M.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
|
Worship Leadership (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$26,840 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) |
3 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Theological Studies (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Bible Exposition (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Global Migration Studies (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Muslim-Christian Relations (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (M.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Education in Educational Administration (M.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Counseling (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Organizational Leadership (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,880 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biblical Studies |
4 Years |
$12,600 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Intercultural Studies |
4 Years |
$12,600 |
|
Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) in Leadership & Preaching |
3 Years |
$12,600 |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership |
3 Years |
$12,600 |
Welcoming Christian Community – Supportive, faith-based learning environment.
Diverse Student Body – Students from over 30 countries.
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Financial aid available for international students.
Flexible Learning Options – On-campus, online, and hybrid programs.
Safe & Beautiful Campus – Located in Columbia, South Carolina, a peaceful and student-friendly city.
Career & Ministry Opportunities – Strong missionary, leadership, and internship programs.
To apply to CIU as an international student, you must meet the following requirements:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Programs)
High school diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA of 2.0 – 2.5 (varies by program).
Graduate (Master’s Programs)
A recognized bachelor’s degree.
Minimum GPA of 2.5 – 3.0 (varies by program).
Doctoral (Ph.D./D.Min./Ed.D. Programs)
A master’s degree in a relevant field.
Minimum GPA of 3.0.
If English is not your first language, you must submit one of the following test scores:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 58
(Exemptions may apply if you studied in an English-speaking institution.)
Online Application Form – Apply via CIU’s website.
Official Transcripts – Must be translated into English if needed.
Statement of Purpose – Explain why you want to study at CIU.
Financial Proof – Show funds to cover tuition & living expenses.
Copy of Passport – Required for visa processing.
CIU offers multiple intakes:
Fall Semester (August) – Apply by June 1
Spring Semester (January) – Apply by November 1
Summer Semester (May) – Apply by March 1
(Some programs may have specific deadlines. Check with the admissions office.)
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Programs): ~$26,840 per year
Graduate (Master’s Programs): ~$11,880 per year
Doctoral (Ph.D./D.Min./Ed.D. Programs): ~$12,600 per year
International Student Scholarships – Merit-based and need-based financial aid is available.
Work-Study Programs – On-campus job opportunities to help with expenses.
On-Campus Housing: Available with dormitory-style rooms.
Meal Plans: Dining hall with international food options.
Student Support Services: Academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.
Clubs & Organizations: Join cultural, music, leadership, and ministry groups.
Chapel & Worship: Regular Christian fellowship and community events.
CIU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in fields like theology, business, education, counseling, and leadership.
Visit the CIU website to explore available programs: N/A
Apply through the official CIU website:
CIU Application Portal
Application Fee:
Undergraduate: $25
Graduate & Doctoral: $45
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Applicants:
Official High School Transcripts (translated into English if applicable)
Minimum GPA: 2.0 – 2.5 (varies by program)
English Proficiency Test Scores (for international students)
Personal Statement (Optional but recommended)
For Graduate (Master’s) Applicants:
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts (from an accredited institution)
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (varies by program)
English Proficiency Test Scores (if applicable)
Resume/CV (for some programs)
Personal Statement or Essay
Recommendation Letters (1-2, depending on the program)
For Doctoral (Ph.D./D.Min./Ed.D.) Applicants:
Master’s Degree Transcripts (from an accredited institution)
Minimum GPA: 3.0
English Proficiency Test Scores (if applicable)
Statement of Purpose
Resume/CV
3 Recommendation Letters
Writing Sample or Research Proposal (for Ph.D. programs)
If English is not your first language, you need to submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 58
(You may be exempt if you studied in an English-speaking country.)
Proof of Financial Support – You must show proof that you can cover tuition and living expenses.
Bank Statements or Sponsorship Letters may be required for your F-1 student visa application.
CIU typically processes applications within 2-4 weeks after receiving all documents.
You will receive an email notification with your admission status.
If accepted, CIU will send your I-20 form, which is required to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Schedule a visa appointment at your nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
Prepare for the visa interview with your CIU admission letter and financial documents.
Once accepted, secure your place by paying the enrollment deposit.
Register for classes and plan your arrival in Columbia, South Carolina!
CIU has multiple intakes throughout the year:
Fall Semester (August Start) – Apply by June 1
Spring Semester (January Start) – Apply by November 1
Summer Semester (May Start) – Apply by March 1
(Some programs may have specific deadlines. Check with the admissions office.)
CIU follows a rolling admission process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, students should apply before the following priority deadlines:
Semester |
Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (Main Intake) |
June 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Summer Semester (Limited Programs) |
March 1 |
Early May |
Some graduate and doctoral programs may have specific deadlines.
Online programs may have different start dates.
Academic Qualifications:
High school diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA: 2.0 – 2.5 (varies by program).
English Language Requirements (For International Students Only):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 58
Additional Documents:
Online Application Form
Official High School Transcripts (translated into English if applicable)
Personal Statement (Optional but recommended)
Financial Proof (For international students applying for an F-1 visa)
Academic Qualifications:
A recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (varies by program).
English Language Requirements (For International Students Only):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 58
Additional Documents:
Online Application Form
Official Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts
Resume/CV (For some programs)
Personal Statement or Essay
1-2 Letters of Recommendation
Academic Qualifications:
A master’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 3.0.
English Language Requirements (For International Students Only):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
PTE Academic: Minimum 65
Additional Documents:
Online Application Form
Official Master’s Degree Transcripts
Statement of Purpose (Research interests & career goals)
Resume/CV
3 Letters of Recommendation
Writing Sample or Research Proposal (For Ph.D. programs)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CIU Academic Merit Scholarship |
Based on GPA & SAT/ACT scores |
Up to $10,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
International Student Scholarship |
For high-achieving international students |
Up to $7,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Presidential Leadership Scholarship |
Exceptional leadership & academic excellence |
Up to $12,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
Athletic Scholarship |
For student-athletes (various sports) |
(Full/Partial) |
Undergraduate |
|
Ministry & Missionary Grant |
For students with a ministry background |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Church Matching Grant |
CIU matches church contributions (Up to $1,500) |
Up to $1,500 per year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Alumni Dependent Grant |
Children of CIU alumni |
Up to $1,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
Honors Program Scholarship |
Invitation-only for high-achieving students |
Up to $3,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Work-study positions for graduate students |
Tuition Reduction or Stipend |
Graduate & Doctoral |
|
Doctoral Research Fellowship |
For Ph.D. & Ed.D. students conducting research |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Doctoral |
Residence Hall / Housing Type |
Room Type |
Amenities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
East & West Residence Halls |
Shared Room |
Wi-Fi, study lounge, laundry, community kitchen |
$4,150 |
|
Pine View Apartments |
Single Room (Apartment-Style) |
Private kitchen, bathroom, living area |
$5,300 |
|
Townhouses |
2-4 Person Unit |
Full kitchen, shared living space, private bedrooms |
$6,200 |
|
Graduate Housing (Pine View & Townhouses) |
Single Room |
Quiet environment, private/shared kitchen |
$5,500 - $6,500 |
Security: 24/7 campus security & key card access
Laundry Facilities: Available in all housing options
Community Spaces: Lounges, study rooms, and recreational areas
Meal Plan Type |
Meals Per Week |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Full Meal Plan |
19 Meals + Snacks |
$2,650 |
$5,300 |
|
Standard Meal Plan |
14 Meals |
$2,400 |
$4,800 |
|
Basic Meal Plan |
10 Meals |
$2,100 |
$4,200 |
|
Graduate & Apartment Meal Plan |
Optional |
N/A |
N/A |
Food Options: Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free meals available.
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Library (G. Allen Fleece Library) |
Extensive digital & physical resources, study spaces |
|
Student Center |
Café, lounge, game area, event space |
|
Athletic Center |
Gym, fitness center, basketball & volleyball courts |
|
Chapel & Worship Hall |
Regular services & spiritual development programs |
|
Career Services Office |
Internship & job placement support |
|
Health & Wellness Center |
Medical support & counseling services |
|
International Student Lounge |
Support & social space for global students |
CIU has students from over 30 countries, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. The university promotes cultural exchange, allowing international students to feel at home while experiencing American college life.
As a Christian university, CIU integrates faith into education and campus life. Students participate in:
Chapel Services – Held multiple times a week for worship and fellowship.
Bible Studies & Prayer Groups – Small group gatherings for spiritual growth.
Mission Trips & Outreach – Opportunities to serve in local and international missions.
Christian Leadership Training – Programs designed to develop ministry and leadership skills.
State-of-the-Art Library – G. Allen Fleece Library provides extensive research materials.
Tutoring & Academic Advising – Support for coursework and career planning.
Internship & Job Placement – Career Services helps students find internships and employment.
Graduate Assistantships – Work opportunities for master’s and Ph.D. students.
Living on campus is a big part of student life at CIU. Students can stay in:
Residence Halls – Traditional dormitory-style housing for undergraduates.
Pine View Apartments – Apartment-style living for upperclassmen and graduate students.
Townhouses – Shared living spaces with private rooms for those who prefer more independence.
Campus housing includes Wi-Fi, lounges, community kitchens, and study spaces.
The CIU dining hall offers healthy and diverse meal options, including:
Vegetarian & Vegan Choices
Gluten-Free & Halal Meals
Snack & Coffee Shops on Campus
Meal plans are available based on student needs, from full meal plans to flexible dining options.
CIU offers a variety of student organizations and activities, including:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Leadership and decision-making opportunities.
International Student Club – Helps international students adjust to campus life.
Worship & Music Groups – Participate in CIU's worship bands and choirs.
Drama & Arts Club – Engage in theater and creative arts.
Mission & Service Organizations – Get involved in humanitarian projects.
Regular campus events include concerts, guest speakers, workshops, and cultural celebrations.
CIU has a strong athletics program with both varsity and intramural sports. Students can participate in:
Basketball
Soccer
Tennis
Volleyball
Fitness & Gym Facilities
There are also hiking trails, outdoor adventure groups, and recreational sports leagues.
CIU provides special services for international students, including:
International Student Orientation – Helps students adjust to campus life.
Visa & Immigration Assistance – Guidance on F-1 visa requirements.
Cultural Exchange Events – Opportunities to share traditions and meet new friends.
Peer Mentorship Programs – Support from senior international students.
CIU offers a Career Services Office that provides:
Career Counseling & Resume Assistance – One-on-one coaching for job applications and interviews.
Internships & Practical Training – Hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Job Fairs & Networking Events – Connect with potential employers and ministry organizations.
On-Campus Job Opportunities – Work-study programs for students.
Alumni Network Support – Access to a strong network of CIU graduates.
90% of CIU graduates find employment or enter graduate school within six months of graduation.
Many students secure internships during their studies, leading to full-time job offers.
Graduates are placed in business, ministry, counseling, education, and nonprofit organizations.
Business & Leadership – Marketing, management, finance, and entrepreneurship.
Counseling & Psychology – Clinical counseling, therapy, and mental health services.
Education & Teaching – Schools, universities, and special education programs.
Ministry & Missions – Churches, missionary organizations, and Christian nonprofits.
Media & Communications – Journalism, digital marketing, and content creation.
CIU collaborates with local, national, and international organizations, including:
Nonprofit & Ministry Organizations – Samaritan’s Purse, World Vision, Compassion International.
Corporate & Business Firms – Deloitte, Chick-fil-A Leadership Program, Faith-based business networks.
Counseling & Psychology Centers – Christian counseling centers, mental health clinics.
Education & Teaching Institutions – Private Christian schools, international teaching programs.
Amazon (Leadership Development)
Chick-fil-A (Business & Management)
World Relief (Nonprofit & Missions)
Samaritan’s Purse (Ministry & Humanitarian Work)
Local & International Schools (Teaching & Administration)
Columbia International University (CIU) has a high acceptance rate of approximately 98%, making it an accessible university for students who meet the admission requirements.
CIU has a welcoming admission policy, focusing on academic potential, faith-based values, and leadership qualities.
Meeting the minimum GPA and English requirements significantly increases your chances of admission.
International students with the required academic qualifications and English proficiency also have a strong chance of acceptance.
Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.0 – 2.5 (Undergraduate), 2.5 – 3.0 (Graduate)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 80+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Application Requirements:
Transcripts, Personal Statement, Recommendation Letters (for some programs)
Proof of Financial Support (For F-1 visa students)
Columbia International University
7435 Monticello Road,
Columbia, SC 29203,
United States
Peaceful & Safe Campus – The university is located in a quiet suburban area, away from heavy city distractions, making it an ideal environment for studying and spiritual growth.
Close to Downtown Columbia – The campus is just 15 minutes away from downtown Columbia, offering easy access to restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.
Near Major Highways & Airports –
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) – ~20 minutes from campus
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – ~1.5 hours away
Scenic Surroundings – The campus is surrounded by green spaces, walking trails, and outdoor recreational areas, offering students opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Proximity to Internship & Job Opportunities – Being in the capital of South Carolina, students have access to businesses, schools, churches, and nonprofit organizations for internships and employment.
