Columbia International University
The Vibe Check
Columbia International University offers a tight-knit, faith-centered community where students feel known and supported by peers and faculty. The urban setting in South Carolina's capital provides a grounded, mission-driven atmosphere focused on service and spiritual growth. It feels like a place where personal development is as important as academic achievement.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1038
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 21
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
CIU's academic strengths lie in theology, ministry, and practical fields like business and communications, with a curriculum deeply integrated with Christian worldview. The small class sizes ensure personalized attention and mentorship from accessible professors. Research opportunities are often tied to service projects and ministry initiatives rather than large-scale labs.
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 Columbia
Students in Columbia enjoy a vibrant downtown with access to the State House, museums, and a growing food scene. Outdoor activities are popular, including exploring the nearby Congaree National Park or the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. The city also hosts festivals and live music events, offering a mix of cultural and recreational options.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($38,951):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
CIU's campus is generally considered safe, with a close-knit community that fosters a supportive environment. The surrounding urban area of Columbia requires standard city awareness, but the campus itself is a protected space.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it accessible to a wide range of students.
- ✓ Strong, integrated faith-based education in a supportive community.
- ✓ Uniform tuition rate simplifies financial planning for all students.
- ✓ Specialized programs in theology and ministry are a core strength.
Cons
- ✗ Low 10-year median earnings indicate potentially limited financial ROI.
- ✗ Small enrollment size may limit diversity of perspectives and networking scale.
- ✗ Retention and graduation rates are below national averages, which may be a concern.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CIU is primarily known for its strong emphasis on biblical education, ministry training, and theology. It offers a faith-integrated curriculum across all majors, preparing students for service-oriented careers. The university is recognized for its small, mentorship-driven environment and its commitment to global missions.
No, CIU is not hard to get into; it has a very high acceptance rate of 97.58%. This makes it an accessible option for many applicants. The admissions process is holistic, focusing on your fit with the university's mission and values rather than just grades or test scores.
Campus life at CIU is centered around a close-knit, faith-based community with a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and service. Students participate in chapel, small group studies, and various ministry opportunities. The small campus size fosters deep relationships, though the social scene is quieter than at larger universities.
The value depends on your career goals. For students pursuing ministry, non-profit work, or other service-oriented fields, the specialized training and strong community can be worth the investment. However, with a 10-year median earnings of $38,951, it may not be the best financial choice for those seeking high-salary corporate careers.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,219
- In-State Tuition $27,900
- Zip Code 29203
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $21,660 and uniform tuition for in- and out-of-state students, CIU is more affordable than many private universities. However, the 10-year median earnings of $38,951 are below the national average for college graduates, suggesting the ROI is more aligned with mission-driven fields than high-paying corporate careers. For students pursuing ministry or non-profit work, the value is in the specialized training and community rather than immediate financial return.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.