American InterContinental University System
The Vibe Check
AIU System offers a fast-paced, career-focused learning environment that feels more like a professional workplace than a traditional college campus. With a highly diverse student body and flexible scheduling, the vibe is pragmatic and driven, catering to working adults and non-traditional students. It feels like a place where you are there to get a degree efficiently and start a career, rather than to experience a typical college social scene.
Academics & Majors
The academic strengths lie in targeted, career-oriented programs like Business, Criminal Justice, and IT, with curricula designed to align with professional standards. Teaching quality is focused on practical application, often taught by instructors with industry experience rather than pure academics. Research opportunities are limited, as the focus is on hands-on learning and project-based assessments relevant to the workplace.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chandler
Chandler is a modern, tech-forward suburb of Phoenix with a vibrant downtown area offering breweries, restaurants, and the popular Tumbleweed Park. Students can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, from hiking in the nearby San Tan Mountains to exploring the desert landscape. For nightlife and major entertainment, students often head to nearby Tempe or Scottsdale, which are a short drive away.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($36,144):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and surrounding Chandler area are generally considered safe, with crime rates lower than the national average. As an urban campus with many commuter and online students, standard personal safety precautions are still recommended.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Flexible scheduling with online and accelerated programs tailored for working adults.
- ✓ Career-focused curriculum in high-demand fields like Business, IT, and Health Professions.
- ✓ Open admissions policy makes it accessible to a wide range of applicants.
- ✓ Diverse, non-traditional student body with a focus on practical, real-world skills.
Cons
- ✗ Very low graduation (21.9%) and retention (20.1%) rates, indicating potential student support challenges.
- ✗ 10-year median earnings ($36,144) are low, raising questions about post-graduation earning potential.
- ✗ Limited traditional campus life and social activities, which may not appeal to younger students.
- ✗ As a for-profit institution, it may face scrutiny regarding its value and student outcomes.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
AIU System is primarily known for its career-oriented education, offering flexible online and on-ground programs designed for non-traditional and working students. It specializes in fields like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, and Health Sciences, with an emphasis on practical skills rather than theoretical research. The institution is recognized for its accessible admissions process and accelerated degree options.
No, AIU System has an open admissions policy, making it accessible to most applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. The acceptance rate is generally high, as the focus is on providing educational access rather than selective admission. However, applicants must still meet specific program requirements and demonstrate the ability to succeed in a fast-paced learning environment.
Campus life is not traditional, as the student population is predominantly non-traditional, including many working adults and online learners. The environment is professional and focused, with fewer campus-sponsored social events or residential life activities. Students typically engage through online portals, virtual classrooms, and targeted networking opportunities rather than a classic college social scene.
The value depends heavily on the student's career goals and financial situation. While the net price is moderate, the 10-year median earnings of $36,144 are below the national average for bachelor's degree holders, which may indicate a lower return on investment. It can be worthwhile for those who need a flexible, career-focused degree to advance in a specific field, but students should carefully compare costs and outcomes with other institutions.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 25,293
- In-State Tuition $12,310
- Zip Code 85286
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $14,449, the cost is relatively moderate compared to many private institutions. However, the 10-year median earnings of $36,144 are below the national average for college graduates, which suggests a potential struggle for a strong return on investment. The high Pell Grant rate indicates the student population is economically diverse, but prospective students should carefully weigh the tuition against their expected starting salary in their chosen field.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.