Can I Earn a Degree Online at CIU?

Yes. Columbia International University (CIU) offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs online as well as on campus, so you can complete a degree without relocating to Columbia, South Carolina. The online route fits students who need schedule flexibility or live outside the area, but you should confirm that your specific program of interest is offered in the online format before applying.

What CIU says about online study

CIU describes itself as a Christ-centered university offering more than 75 accredited bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs "both online and on campus." Its homepage states plainly: "No matter where you are, your bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree is within reach."

The university also highlights its online standing, noting it is ranked the #1 best online college in South Carolina. That ranking claim comes from CIU's own site, so treat it as the school's positioning rather than an independent endorsement.

Degree levels available online

Based on CIU's program structure, the online format spans all three degree levels:

CIU groups its offerings into areas of study including Arts & Communication, Business & Leadership, Education, Nursing, Health & Science, Psychology & Counseling, and Seminary & Missions. Availability of a specific major online can differ from the on-campus list, so check the individual program page.

What the online experience includes

CIU points to several features that apply across its programs, including online ones:

• A 13:1 student-to-professor ratio, which suggests relatively small classes.
• An average class size of 14, indicating discussion-based rather than large-lecture formats.
• Faculty accessibility, with CIU stating its "experienced faculty will help you achieve your goals."
• Spiritual formation, with CIU reporting that students say they grow closer to God there.

These figures describe the university overall; confirm how they apply to your specific online program.

How to check whether your program is online

1. Go to the CIU website and open the Academics or Areas of Study section.
2. Select your field of interest (for example, Business & Leadership or Seminary & Missions).
3. Open the individual program page and look for the delivery format — online, on campus, or both.
4. If the format is unclear, use Request Info or schedule a Virtual Visit, where you can meet an Admissions Counselor by Zoom to ask directly.

The Virtual Visit option is the most reliable way to get a definite answer about online availability, cost, and start dates for your program.

Common sticking points

• Not every program is online. CIU offers over 75 programs across two formats, which means some may be campus-only. Verify before you plan around it.
• Accreditation matters for your goals. CIU states its programs are accredited, but if you need a specific professional credential (for example, in nursing or counseling), confirm the program meets your state's requirements.
• Cost and aid are not listed here. CIU directs students to a Cost & Aid section covering scholarships and financial aid. Tuition figures, fees, and aid eligibility are not specified on the homepage, so request them from admissions rather than assuming.
• Rankings are self-reported. The "#1 best online college in SC" claim appears on CIU's own site; check the underlying source if the ranking influences your decision.

If you want a Christ-centered degree and cannot attend in person, CIU's online options are worth investigating — start by confirming your target program's format with an admissions counselor.