About Columbia International University
The financial picture reflects CIU's commitment to accessibility for called students. Average net price drops to $21,660 after aid, making Christian higher education more affordable than the $27,900 sticker price. Graduates typically earn $38,951 ten years after graduation while carrying $20,000 in student debt. Monthly loan payments of $212 represent a manageable burden for those entering ministry fields, where financial rewards often come in forms beyond salary.
Students benefit from close faculty relationships with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that enables mentorship crucial for ministry preparation. The campus houses 400 students, creating tight-knit community bonds that last throughout careers in Christian service. CIU's 12 varsity sports teams compete in NAIA athletics, with 242 student-athletes receiving $2.1 million in athletic scholarships. The Rams foster both spiritual and physical development in future Christian leaders.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 25.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 67.7%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 65.5%
- Retention Rate
- 65.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $38,951
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Doctoral | $35,420 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Doctoral | $33,993 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $30,119 |
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | Doctoral | $28,960 |
| Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies. | Bachelor | $24,421 |
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | Bachelor | $24,421 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $24,035 |
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries. | Bachelor | $23,351 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $21,964 |
Campus Life
Located in South Carolina's capital city, students enjoy year-round mild weather perfect for outdoor activities and need only light jackets in winter. The Rams compete in 12 NAIA sports with 242 total athletes, creating school spirit around basketball and soccer games. Weekends often center on missions trips, community service projects, or exploring Columbia's downtown scene just minutes away. The 242-acre campus feels like a small town where 65.82% of freshmen return, drawn to the university's emphasis on preparing students for ministry and missions work. Students frequently gather for worship nights, intramural sports, and outdoor adventures in nearby state parks.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Housing Capacity
- 400 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1923
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 36°–59°F
- July Avg
- 72°–95°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 48.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 52.3%
- Women
- 47.7%
- White
- 62.5%
- Black
- 19.6%
- Hispanic
- 1.3%
- Asian
- 2.5%
- In-State Students
- 61.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 28.3%
Location
- Address
- Columbia, South Carolina 29203-1513
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $38,951
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $40,330
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $27,900
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 66.3%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $212/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Columbia International University?
Columbia International University accepts 48.22% of applicants, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 990-1195 on the SAT, with an average of 1093. This Christian university attracts students committed to integrating faith with academics.
How much does Columbia International University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $21,660 after financial aid, less than the sticker price of $40,050. About 28% of students receive Pell Grants, and graduates leave with a median debt of $20,000. Monthly loan payments average $212 for those who borrow.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Columbia International University?
The student-faculty ratio is 13:1 with total enrollment of 690 students. This small Christian university emphasizes personal relationships between professors and students. The intimate size allows for mentorship that aligns with the school's mission-focused approach to education.
What do graduates of Columbia International University earn after college?
Graduates earn a median of $38,951 ten years after graduation, with 91% finding employment. The university has a 65.5% six-year graduation rate and 65.82% retention rate. Many alumni pursue ministry, missions, and Christian service careers rather than high-paying corporate positions.
Where do students live at Columbia International University?
The campus houses 400 students in residence halls, serving a community where 61.69% are from South Carolina. The student body is 52.32% male and 47.68% female, creating a close-knit environment. This Christian university emphasizes community living as part of spiritual development.
Does Columbia International University have strong athletics programs?
The Rams compete in NAIA athletics with 12 varsity sports and 242 total athletes. The university awards $2,077,970 in athletic scholarships across its programs. Athletics serves the broader mission of developing Christian character through competition and teamwork.
