Columbia International University

Overview

Columbia International University (CIU) was founded in 1923 and is located in Columbia, South Carolina. It started as Columbia Bible School, offering two-year programs in biblical studies for local workers. By 1927, CIU expanded to a college, providing undergraduate degrees in Bible studies. Due to a growing number of students, the university moved to its current campus in 1960 and changed its name to Columbia Bible College and Seminary. In 1994, it became Columbia International University. CIU is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.

The university has a stunning 400-acre campus situated on a high point with views of the Broad River. The campus includes modern academic and administrative buildings, recreational areas, and support facilities for students. The library at CIU contains a rare collection of both printed and electronic resources available for students and faculty. The largest space on campus is Shortess Chapel, which can seat 1,000 people. The Rossi Student Center features a cafeteria, a post office, and various areas for relaxation and recreation.

CIU also has the Moore Fitness Center, which offers athletic facilities, including volleyball and basketball courts, an aerobics area, and a weight training gym. The campus can house over 400 students in six residence halls. Other amenities include a 500-seat auditorium, a bookstore, a music center, and conference rooms. Although the campus is not in the city center, students can easily access shopping malls, museums, and state parks through public transport.

Columbia International University offers five colleges that provide undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields, including arts, business, science, counseling, intercultural studies, psychology, and education. The university also offers certificate programs and online degrees. Currently, there are about 1,011 students enrolled, with a balanced gender ratio of 51% female and 49% male. The student body includes international students from many countries, and the faculty is highly qualified. The average class size is 20 students, resulting in a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1.

CIU has a global alumni network of over 18,000 graduates in 148 countries. Many alumni have achieved success in their fields. Notable alumni include Doris Aileen Bartholomew (linguist), Chester Allen Bitterman (missionary), Nabeel T. Jabbour (lecturer and author), and Philip Yancey (author). CIU prides itself on its community and the impact its alumni have around the world.

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