Private nonprofit Institution

Columbia International University — Columbia, South Carolina

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Annual Tuition $27,900

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 97.6%

Open Admission

Enrollment 690

Active Students

Avg. Salary $38,951

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Columbia, South Carolina

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Founded 5/5/1971

Academic Mission & Environment

"Columbia International University stands as a pillar of higher education in Columbia, providing a robust academic foundation for 690 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Columbia International University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Columbia International University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Theology

34.7%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing

18.3%

Enrollment Share

Humanities

12.4%

Enrollment Share

Parks & Recreation

7.4%

Enrollment Share

Communications

6.9%

Enrollment Share

Public Admin

6.9%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Theology College

The Theology program at Columbia International University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Humanities College

Empowering students with critical thinking and cultural literacy...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Parks & Recreation College

The Parks & Recreation program at Columbia International University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Communications College

The Communications program at Columbia International University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Public Admin College

The Public Admin program at Columbia International University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Columbia International University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 97.6%

Difficulty Low

Columbia International University maintains an acceptance rate of 97.6%, reflecting its status as a open admission institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are neither required nor recommended.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 52.3%

Women Enrollment 47.7%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

SAT

ACT

Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does Columbia International University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $27,900

Out-of-State Tuition $27,900

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 28.3%

Median Student Debt $20,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $27,900, graduates see a median starting salary of $38,951, making it one of the most affordable pathways in South Carolina.

What salary can Columbia International University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $38,951

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 65.5%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $21,660

Median Salary (6yr) $33,929

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Columbia International University in Columbia?

690 Students

Gender Comparison

52.3% Men

47.7% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

65.8%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

0.1%

Asian

2.5%

Black

19.6%

White

62.5%

Unknown

4.9%

Hispanic

1.3%

Two or More Races

4.4%

International

4.8%

Campus Demographics

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Avg. Age at Entry 22

🎓

First-Generation 24.1%

💰

Receive Pell Grant 63.8%

💍

Married Students 7.7%

🔄

Retention (Part-time) 10%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$64,434
Average Family Income	$60,533
Median Family Income	$49,959

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

66.7%

33.3%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Columbia Campus Environment

Located at 7435 Monticello Rd, Columbia International University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of South Carolina. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does Columbia International University compare?

Direct Comparison Columbia International University vs Allen University →

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Direct Comparison Columbia International University vs South Carolina-Columbia →

Common Questions about Columbia International University

Is Columbia International University a good college in Columbia, South Carolina?

Columbia International University is a recognized institution in Columbia with an enrollment of 690 students. It is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and offers a robust ROI for students in South Carolina based on Department of Education data.

Is Columbia International University worth attending in 2026?

Yes, Columbia International University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $38,951. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does Columbia International University cost for South Carolina residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Columbia International University is approximately $27,900. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $27,900. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of Columbia International University after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending Columbia International University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 63.8% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is Columbia International University good for Theology and Business & Marketing programs?

Columbia International University is highly regarded for its Theology and Business & Marketing programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending Columbia International University?

Graduates of Columbia International University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Theology. With a median salary of $38,951, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for Columbia International University?

Columbia International University operates with a Open Admission policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does Columbia International University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, Columbia International University follows a open admission policy for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can Columbia International University graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of Columbia International University earn a median salary of $38,951 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is Columbia International University a good investment compared to other SC colleges?

Columbia International University stands out as a high-value investment in South Carolina. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is Columbia International University located and what is the campus like?

Columbia International University is located at 7435 Monticello Rd in Columbia, SC. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 690 learners.

Who typically attends Columbia International University in Columbia, SC?

The student body at Columbia International University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 24.1% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: South Carolina

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Columbia International University with other leading institutions in South Carolina across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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