Columbia International University
Columbia, United States • Founded 1923
Updated Jun 2026 · Source: ciu.edu
Overview
Founded in 1923, the Columbia International University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Columbia (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), South Carolina.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Columbia International University (CIU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Evangelical religion. Columbia International University (CIU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 101-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 40-49% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
CIU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Columbia International University's campus location, postal address, and admissions contact channels are below.
Academic Details
Enrolment, faculty headcount, and accreditation data for Columbia International University are listed below.
Programs Offered
The full set of programmes Columbia International University offers is searchable and grouped by level below.
77 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 26 programmes
Showing 10 of 26.
Master's Degree 20 programmes
Showing 10 of 20.
Doctorate 6 programmes
Professional Doctorate 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
Associate's Degree 5 programmes
Certificate 2 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 6 programmes
How to apply to Columbia International University
A five-step path through the application process at Columbia International University.
-
1
Research programmes at Columbia International University
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Columbia International University runs 77 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
-
2
Review admissions criteria
Before applying to Columbia International University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
-
3
Gather supporting documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Columbia International University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
-
4
Lodge your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.ciu.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
-
5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (800) 777 2227. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia International University
A short Q&A covering Columbia International University's essentials — founding, location, and structure.
When was Columbia International University founded?
Columbia International University was established in 1923 (approximately 103 years ago).
Where can I find Columbia International University?
The institution is located in Columbia, United States.
What is Columbia International University's control type?
Columbia International University is a private institution.
How many students does Columbia International University have?
The institution has a student body of 716.
What is Columbia International University's religious tradition?
Columbia International University operates within the Christian-Evangelical tradition.
Who recognises Columbia International University?
Yes, Columbia International University is recognised by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
How do I find Columbia International University online?
You can find Columbia International University online at www.ciu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
These are the most highly ranked universities in the United States. Putting Columbia International University alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.
Members of National Athletic Association (NAA)
Columbia International University and the universities below are both members of National Athletic Association (NAA).
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Evangelical
Columbia International University and the universities below share a Christian-Evangelical affiliation.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as Columbia International University.
Where Else to Study Religious Studies
Other institutions in the United States teaching Religious Studies are listed below for comparison with Columbia International University.
Universities Compared with Columbia International University
The institutions below are of a similar academic scale to Columbia International University.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
Spotted something outdated or missing?
Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.
