D M I S S I O N S
Who Should Apply?
At Columbia International University, we offer a challenging curriculum that encourages students to fulfill their God-given
potential. Students who choose CIU will become part of an academically strong student body. Applicants should evidence
strong Christian character and commitment, potential for effectiveness in Christian ministry, scholastic achievement,
communication skills, and intellectual ability needed for academic studies. Our student body includes a blend of people just
out of high school, out of college, those with careers, single and married persons, and transfer students. The student body
includes people of diverse ages, geographical and cultural backgrounds, personal and family backgrounds, and denominational
affiliations. This diversity adds to the richness of the CIU educational experience. Prospective students are encouraged to
discuss plans, goals, and questions with our experienced admissions staff. Within the United States, call our toll-free number
800.777.2227. Outside the United States, please call 803.807.5024. Fax us at 803.223.2500 or e-mail us at
yesciu@ciu.edu
.
General Admission Requirements
The basic criteria for selection of students include the following:
•
Evidence of Christian conversion (normally at least one year prior to enrollment) and development in Christian
character
•
Evidence of Christian character, submission to the will of God, and willingness to accept the administration’s authority
and guidelines
•
Evidence of the physical and emotional health needed for academic success and the ability to participate in the cross-
cultural, church, marketplace, and/or ministry roles for which they are preparing
•
Evidence of ability to successfully pursue an academic program. Requirements for individual degree programs are
listed in the Specific Requirements for each degree (see also Probationary Acceptance).
•
Evidence of effective use of English (international students should see the section International Applicants for
information on specific requirements)
•
Agreement with the Doctrinal Standard. An applicant will not be admitted who denies any teaching expressed in the
Doctrinal Standard, with the exception of the need to affirm the pre-millennial position expressed in section 8 of the
standard. In addition to the general requirements listed above, the various degree programs have specific prerequisite
and entrance requirements related to their fields.
•
At the undergraduate level, evidence of an ability and preparation to meet the academic requirements of CIU,
demonstrated by possessing a valid high school diploma or equivalent, submitting appropriate standardized testing
scores for college admission and appropriate transcripts of all previous education experiences in high school and
college is required.
•
At the graduate level, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. (Students holding a baccalaureate
degree from a non-accredited institution may in some cases still be eligible for admission. See Non-accredited Degrees
for more information.)
Race, ethnic origin, nationality, sex, or disability is not a factor in our selection process. Applicants who have been divorced
will be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. CIU reserves the right to deny or revoke the admission of any
candidate whose behavior or lifestyle is inconsistent with biblical principles or with the lifestyle standards of the CIU
community.
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D M I S S I O N
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E Q U I R E M E N T S
Undergraduate-level
We strongly recommend a college preparatory high school curriculum that includes a thorough background in English
grammar and composition, two or more units of a foreign language, two units of mathematics, two units of history, and one
unit of natural science.
Graduate-level
College of Counseling
In addition to satisfying the general admissions requirements listed above, students applying to the Master of Arts in
Counseling program must satisfy degree-specific requirements. For a complete listing of additional requirements, see the M.A.
in Counseling program in the College of Counseling section of this catalog.
College of Education
In addition to satisfying the general admissions requirements listed above, students applying to a College of Education
master’s or doctoral degree
program must satisfy degree-specific requirements. For a complete listing of additional
requirements, see the College of Education section of this catalog.
OLUMBIA NTERNATIONAL NIVERSITY
DMISSIONS