School Details
Columbia International University is a private, not-for-profit institution rooted in Christian faith and service. Take on a biblical worldview, applicable to ministry or the marketplace. Take advantage of degree programs ranging from associate’s to doctorate degrees. Join a faith-oriented community of students developing into leaders at CIU.
Online associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees are available to the nontraditional student. This flexible format connects a global community of learners interested in pursuing professional goals while balancing other life commitments. Online programs vary from human services to business, divinity, and more.
Qualities of learning online with CIU:
- 100% online
- Online library resources
- Learn skills directly applicable to careers
Accreditation & Licensing
Columbia International University is accredited by:
Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation (ABHE)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
An Associate of Arts degree in General Studies is available to the online student through Columbia International University. This program is designed for those transferring coursework from other institutions and students interested in a more generalized program. With a flexible online format, students are able to balance a career while completing a degree.
Earning a generalized degree means students are able to combine studies from a variety of areas to reach professional, technical, or academic goals. CIU encourages those pursuing this program to also consider a bachelor of science degree. Develop a basic proficiency in a wide array of skills, a comprehensive Christian worldview, and a sound confidence of knowledge in your interests with Columbia International University online.
Columbia International University offers an online Master of Arts degree in Global Migration Studies. This program equips students with the skills, techniques, and tools to communicate with scattered populations. Students are able to excel in their chosen career path while completing academic goals through a flexible online format. Some career opportunities with this degree include:
- International ministry
- Faith-based non-governmental organizations
- Resettlement specialist
- Missionary
Professors are active practitioners bringing real-world experience to the online classroom. Students are given a comprehensive study of global migration through cultural, spiritual, and economic perspectives. Studies also include biblical principles, history and politics, and the skills to minister to various groups of diaspora groups. Earn this unique degree and find your place in ministry or other specialized career paths with Columbia International University online.
Business
The Associate of Arts in Business Administration online degree from Columbia International University is designed for students seeking to enter or advance in the business field. With this degree you will gain a firm foundation in the essential principles and practices needed to succeed in business. Plus, you will appreciate the biblical-based Christian worldview the curriculum provides, allowing you to incorporate your beliefs with your career. Along the way students develop their own philosophy of business.
Courses in this online business administration degree cover core academic courses in General Education along with introductory courses in business topics. As you become proficient in essential business skills, you will also be preparing for advancement in various professions or ministry or to begin your bachelor’s degree.
With Columbia International University’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration students benefit, not only from professors who are both instructors and practitioners in business, but also from the academic and spiritual support and guidance offered by faculty and staff. With this degree you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in business.
As you prepare for leadership and management positions in business, you will complete collaborative and academically rigorous courses. Although students can study where and when it suits with the online business administration degree courses, you will not feel alone. Not only are the faculty supportive but you will complete highly engaged and hands-on coursework with students from all over the world.
Courses cover the knowledge and skills needed to create or manage businesses and high-performance teams and organizations. You will study topics needed to succeed in leadership positions in nonprofit and for-profit organizations and governmental and international nongovernmental entities. As a result, you will have the practical and professional skills needed to run and work in organizations both in the United States and around the world.
The Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance degree online from Columbia International University is a step toward a successful leadership position in business. While you will cover general business administration topics, you will complete courses that focus on accounting and economic strategy. Students study evolving technology, financial market operations, and fundamental concepts of budgetary management while also covering corporate treasury management, investment analysis, and portfolio management. Graduates are ready to lead in the corporate world, particularly when it comes to financial management, modeling, and planning.
As you complete the online finance degree, you will benefit from CIU’s missional focus and strong core values. Students find a strong support system and a program designed to meet the needs of working adults.
Become an effective leader in businesses across the United States and around the world with the Master of Organizational Leadership online degree from Columbia International University. Since effective organizations are guided by effective leaders, this program provides the knowledge and skills you need to get started on this path. You will complete a curriculum designed around the disciplines of:
- Strategic planning
- Team building
- Change management
- Finance
- Human resources
As you study organizational systems and activities and learn ways to improve organizations you will not only work on personal leadership development but will also develop an ethical personal leadership philosophy based on a Christian worldview.
Taught by experts in the field who are dedicated to student success, courses are engaged and hands-on with classmates from all over the world. Students benefit from a flexible schedule that allows them to earn their degree while working and from free online tutoring.
Education
Climb the career ladder with this online doctorate in education leadership. This program increases students’ abilities to articulate Christ-centered perspectives in educational institutions and to represent education from a biblical perspective in broader society. Courses are taught from a biblical worldview, with professors often integrating faith and learning.
The curriculum in this online education administration degree develops capacities to think, communicate, and model biblical excellence in educational leadership positions through coursework and research. Coursework provides a rich and diverse global learning experience, covering such topics as:
- Leadership theory
- School law
- Financial principles
- Faculty and staff supervision
- Strategic planning
Gain professional understanding and practice in education with this online education administration degree. The Christ-centered curriculum teaches Christian perspectives in educational institutions. Learn how to represent education from a biblical perspective in broader society. You will develop capacities to think, communicate, and model biblical excellence in educational leadership positions.
Coursework covers such topics as:
- Leadership theory
- School law
- Financial principles
- Faculty and staff supervision
- Strategic planning
While this online education administration degree is comprised of doctoral-level courses, there is not a research component like the one associated with the Doctor of Philosophy.
Enroll in this master’s in ESL online degree and advance professional opportunities. In as little as 12 months students are able to advance their careers as professional teachers of English to speakers of other languages. Learn to teach children and adults effectively. In addition to learning how to teach listening, speaking, reading, and writing at all levels of proficiency, you will learn how to live and teach in another country or culture.
There are a number of benefits to this Christian-based, online ESL degree program. Study whenever it is convenient in courses taught by seasoned veterans in TESOL. This program also has a proven track record of placing qualified English teachers globally.
This online master’s in education administration provides professional growth opportunities for educators using a biblical perspective. The Christian-focused curriculum develops knowledge and skills in school administrative responsibilities.
These include:
- Leadership theory
- School law
- Financial principles
- Faculty and staff supervision
- Data-informed decision making
There are numerous benefits to this online education administration degree, including the flexibility to study wherever it is convenient. Complete highly engaged, collaborative courses that use real-life case studies and are designed with Christian educators in mind. Faculty are dedicated to your academic and spiritual support and guidance.
Gain professional growth opportunities with this online master’s in curriculum and instruction. This program is designed for Christian educators. Prepare to assume leadership roles as teachers and/or instructional supervisors in various school settings. The curriculum provides opportunities to develop knowledge and skills in instructional concepts, strategies, and content design. Learn to enhance student learning.
This online master’s in curriculum and instruction offers several benefits. For example, access your courses anytime and anywhere, 24/7. Courses are taught by highly engaged professors.
Healthcare
The Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration online degree prepares students for leadership positions in the healthcare administration area of business. While still offering a strong understanding of core business topics, the curriculum focuses on knowledge and skills involved in healthcare administration. Courses include:
- Decision-Making in Health Care Delivery Systems
- Healthcare Finance
- Healthcare Legal and Regulatory Climates
With this coursework graduates go on to careers as directors of hospitals and financial managers, consultants, and administrators.
As you complete the online business administration degree, you will benefit from CIU’s missional focus and strong core values. Students find a strong support system and a program designed to meet the needs of working adults.
Religion & Philosophy
This online ministry degree program is designed for individuals who want to become more effective in their ministries. The curriculum provides professional ministers with the opportunity to reflect on their practice of leadership from diverse strategic perspectives. You will be challenged from a variety of ministry contexts to grow in your own spiritual maturity, strengthen your personal and professional ethics, and develop a biblical approach to your leadership practice. Courses will help students formulate plans for continuing personal spiritual growth in leadership and develop personal and professional ethics for leadership in ministry. Students are able to implement a leadership approach that embraces multicultural and global perspectives.
This online ministry degree is asynchronous. Study whenever it is convenient without relocating or traveling.
Make a scholarly contribution to the Biblical Studies field through teaching in postsecondary theological higher education, research, and scholarly writing. This online biblical studies degree focuses on the functional authority of Scripture, preparing you to make a meaningful contribution to the fields of Old Testament or New Testament Studies. As you study you will embrace the principles of Victorious Christian Living.
This dissertation-focused biblical studies degree provides students with comprehensive training, academic support, and mentorship. Work with a mentor whose areas of interest and expertise align with your dissertation topic throughout the research and writing process.
Earn a Doctor of Philosophy degree with a concentration in Intercultural Studies through Columbia International University online. Ambitious students can enhance their career or professional options while completing this degree through a flexible online format. Take on advanced studies and produce original research with emphasis including but not limited to:
- History and theology of mission
- Cultural anthropology
- Mission strategy
- Islamic studies
Professors are active practitioners bringing real-world experience to the online classroom. Develop heightened research and evaluation skills throughout the production of a dissertation, supervised by an academic advisor. Graduates with this advanced degree may go into careers as university instructors, government advisors, leaders in Christian organizations, and more. For those interested, there is an accelerated three-year program option available. Enhance yourself with academic, professional, and spiritual preparation through CIU online.
Make a contribution to a more accurate understanding of the message of Christ as found in Scripture. This online theology degree prepares you to teach in postsecondary theological higher education nationally and internationally. You will be able to use scholarly research and writing to make a difference in the fields of:
- Chaplaincy
- Homiletics
- Moral Theology
- Pastor Care
- Pastoral Theology
Students gain the knowledge and skills needed to research and write at an advanced level of biblical scholarship. You will also learn to present these research results. Graduates are well-rounded scholars.
This dissertation-focused online theology degree provides comprehensive training, academic support, and mentorship. Work with a mentor whose areas of interest and expertise align with your dissertation topic throughout the research and writing process.
Prepare to make a significant contribution to the field of Theological Studies through research, writing, and scholarly engagement. You will also prepare to teach in postsecondary theological higher education settings nationally and internationally with this online theology degree. Through rigorous study and exploration, you will learn to make a difference in the areas of:
- Historical Theology
- Systematic Theology
- Apologetics
As a scholar and educator, you will contribute to the understanding of a theologically informed biblical worldview. Integrity and ethical conduct are key ideas supported through this theology degree that upholds the core value of Victorious Christian Living.
This dissertation-focused online theology degree provides comprehensive training, academic support, and mentorship. Work with a mentor whose areas of interest and expertise align with your dissertation topic throughout the research and writing process.
Columbia International University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Bible & Theology. This program offers a solid biblical-theological foundation and can be applied towards a Master of Divinity or Master of Arts seminary program. The curriculum will help you learn how to interpret and apply the biblical text and explain, evaluate, and apply Bible doctrine. You will be able to trace God’s global movement throughout the Bible. Courses are taught by faculty and staff who are practitioners of the subjects they teach and who are dedicated to getting to know their students and providing both academic and spiritual support and guidance.
An online Graduate Certificate in Intercultural Studies is available through Columbia International University. This program is designed to help students elevate careers while accomplishing academic goals. Studies include comprehensive perspectives of missions, cultures, world-views, and scientific descriptions of cultures and customs on a global scale.
This four-course certificate can be completed in a completely online or hybrid format. Courses are customizable to fit student’s area of interest. Students will evaluate strategies of missions, identify and analyze cultural issues, and more. Develop skills in research, communication, and problem-solving in preparation for academic, professional, and spiritual achievement with Columbia International University online.
This online Muslim-Christian Relations certificate is designed to prepare students for effective life and work in Muslim contexts. You will gain an essential understanding of Muslim beliefs and practices. The curriculum also teaches various forms of Christian witness. Graduates can demonstrate skills in identifying and analyzing cultural issues and can evaluate current strategies regarding the global mission of God among Muslims.
The online Master of Arts in Bible Exposition degree program is founded on eternal Biblical principles. This program is designed for students God has blessed with a deep love of His word and who want to read, analyze, and interpret Scripture. You will learn how to bring the world closer to God through writing about, teaching, and ministering Scripture. The curriculum teaches students to interpret Scripture in its original languages through direct interaction with the text and practice sound exegesis and exposition of the biblical text and trace key themes in Scripture. You will learn to communicate biblical truth with the goal of life transformation and be able to discuss the teaching of individual books of the Bible in detail. Students are also able to contextualize the Bible books to a variety of cultures.
Integrating behavior health science and biblical principles, this online pastoral counseling degree prepares students to provide guidance and counsel to others. Gain a deeper understanding of yourself, others, life, and the world through the lens of God’s perspective. Learn to address the diverse needs of individuals through a holistic perspective as you address the emotional and relational aspects of their lives and their spiritual needs.
The curriculum of this online master’s in counseling is based on the integration of:
- Behavioral health science
- Biblical knowledge
- Spiritual formation
- Ministry skill development
Students in this online pastoral counseling degree are guided by experienced faculty members who provide mentoring while preparing them to provide compassionate and competent care and counseling. Enjoy interactive online classes while studying with a diverse group of students.
The online Master of Arts in Chaplaincy degree program is designed for individuals who care about people and want to offer them support. With this program, you will learn to act in the pastoral, caregiver, emotional, and spiritual support roles of a chaplain. The curriculum will help you bring God’s presence to others in a corporate, institutional, or organizational context. The program teaches students to apply the biblical, theological, and doxological aspects of chaplaincy in pluralistic settings; to practice a ministry of God’s presence internally and be a bearer of God’s presence to others; and to practice biblical leadership and ministry skills that display God’s presence.
Graduates will learn to effectively minister in a variety of roles, including:
- Corporate chaplaincy
- Healthcare chaplaincy
- Public safety chaplaincy
- Institutional chaplaincy
- Sports chaplaincy
- Educational chaplaincy
- Disaster relief chaplaincy
Earn a Master of Arts degree in Intercultural Studies with Columbia International University online. Students participating in this program may elevate their careers and complete academic goals in a flexible, accessible educational format. Professors of intercultural studies are active practitioners who bring real-world experience to the online classroom. By taking this step in reaching across cultural boundaries, students are prepared for career paths including but not limited to:
- Government
- Military
- Church and missions
- Private-sector organizations and transnational corporations
Students will study societal and global issues alongside an international network of peers. Coursework is fieldwork oriented and may include unique internship and research opportunities. Engage with other cultures and enhance critical research, analysis, and communication skills. Develop academically, professionally, and spiritually through an online degree with Columbia International University.
The online Master of Arts in Ministry Studies program is designed for those who are passionate about the church, mission, and parachurch ministry and have a desire to disciple future disciple-makers. Students will learn to communicate God’s word to equip and mobilize believers for Christ-centered lives and Kingdom-focused impacts. The curriculum teaches students to apply principles of ministry leadership, develop 21st-century strategies for missional renewal within various ministry contexts, and communicate biblical truths with the goal of life transformation. Students come from all professions and walks of life, seeking to become more effective in ministering to others.
You will be prepared for:
- Local Church Ministry
- Para-Church Ministry
- Marketplace Ministry
This online religion degree is designed to expand your perspectives. The curriculum builds a bridge that helps you live a cross-cultural life through the study of Islam while you explore the theology, traditions, and worldview of Islam. Courses also provide the crucial tools and techniques required for developing greater cultural understanding and for working among Muslims. In this program, students learn to engage in high-level, critical research, analysis, and writing about Muslim studies and their relation to the global mission of God and will gain strategies and tools for working with cultures other than their own. You will also learn about the societal and global issues that affect Muslims and intercultural exchanges and relations.
As you complete accelerated online courses you will study with a diverse cohort of students. You will be taught by expert resident faculty who are distinguished scholars with extensive experience in the Muslim world. Engage in thought-provoking discussions, collaborate with fellow students, and be mentored by experts in the field while earning this religion degree online.
Columbia University International offers an online Master of Arts in Theological Studies. Students will gain a better understanding of theological knowledge used to enhance careers regarding biblical studies, church history, intercultural studies, and more. The curriculum is rigorous and interdisciplinary, building a solid theological foundation that will help inform your career and life decisions. You will learn how to engage in high-level, publishable critical research, analysis, and writing about theology and its related disciplines. Students also learn about methods of biblical interpretation and how to apply it in different contexts along with the tools and techniques for explaining and evaluating Bible doctrine.
Graduates will find careers and opportunities that involve church and missionary work in areas including:
- Teaching at colleges or seminaries
- Pd.D. and research work
- Serving as a pastor or associate pastor
- Serving as a member of a church staff or ministry professional
- Work cross-culturally as a Missionary
The online Master of Divinity program prepares you to answer God’s calling. The curriculum will teach students how to teach Scripture and share it with people around you with you acting as His voice when you read His thoughts through Scripture. You will advance your understanding of God’s truth and how to relay it to the world through an immersive, engaging online learning setting. This is a flexible program that can be tailored to meet your interests and career goals. There are eight concentrations to choose from and you can switch concentrations as your interests and career goals change during the program without losing time or money toward the degree.
The available concentrations include, but are not limited to:
- Bible Exposition
- Care and Counseling
- Chaplaincy
- Ministry Studies
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language