简体中文
EnglishWhat Degree Programs and Areas of Study Does CIU Offer?
Updated
Columbia International University (CIU) offers more than 75 accredited bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, delivered either on campus in Columbia, South Carolina, or online. If you are looking for a Christ-centered university with flexible study paths and a range of professional and ministry-focused fields, CIU's program structure is worth reviewing before you apply.
Degree Levels Available
CIU organizes its offerings around four main study paths:
| Path | Description |
|---|---|
| Campus Undergraduate | Traditional bachelor's study on the Columbia, SC campus |
| Online | Bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees completed remotely |
| Master's | Graduate study aimed at advancing professional opportunities |
| Doctoral | Advanced study for expertise in a chosen field |
The online option applies across all three degree levels, so location does not limit you to one type of program.
Areas of Study
CIU groups its academic programs into seven fields:
- Arts & Communication
- Business & Leadership
- Education
- Nursing, Health & Science
- Psychology & Counseling
- Seminary & Missions
Each area is described as Christ-centered and oriented toward preparing students for both a career and a calling. The seminary and missions category reflects CIU's historical identity — the university has equipped students for service, leadership, and ministry worldwide since 1923.
What the Learning Environment Looks Like
A few figures from CIU's own materials help set expectations:
- 13:1 student-to-professor ratio
- 14 average class size
- 24,000 alumni across 160 countries
- Ranked #1 best online college in SC (per the university's site)
CIU also reports that its students say they grow closer to God during their time there, which aligns with the university's stated focus on spiritual formation alongside academics.
How to Decide If CIU Fits
Use these questions to narrow your choice:
- What level do you need? If you already hold a bachelor's, focus on the master's and doctoral listings. If not, compare campus undergraduate against online.
- Which field matches your goal? The seven areas above span professional tracks (business, nursing, education, psychology) and ministry tracks (seminary and missions).
- Do you need flexibility? Online delivery covers all degree levels, so it is a viable route regardless of where you live.
- Is the faith-based setting a fit? CIU describes every program as Christ-centered, so this is a defining feature rather than an add-on.
Next Steps
CIU's site offers several ways to move forward: an Apply Now option, a Request Info form, a Virtual Visit (a Zoom meeting with an admissions counselor), and in-person Campus Visit options, including a preview event for future undergraduates and families. If cost is a concern, the Cost & Aid section covers scholarships and financial aid, though specific figures are not listed in the material reviewed here.
For a full program list within any of the seven areas, the university's Explore Programs and Areas of Study sections are the most direct starting points.