California Intercontinental University
The Vibe Check
California Intercontinental University feels like a tight-knit, career-focused hub where students are laser-focused on practical outcomes rather than traditional campus life. The small class sizes foster a personalized, almost tutorial-like atmosphere where instructors know you by name. It's a place that prioritizes flexibility and professional advancement over college traditions.
Academics & Majors
CIU specializes in career-oriented programs in Business, Computer Science, and Health Professions, designed for immediate workforce application. The curriculum is delivered primarily online with a focus on flexibility for working adults, emphasizing practical skills over theoretical research. Teaching quality is geared toward mentorship, with faculty often having direct industry experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls offers a mix of urban amenities with a small-town feel, featuring a revitalized downtown with restaurants, shops, and the iconic Falls Park. Students can enjoy outdoor activities along the bike trails, explore local arts and culture at the Washington Pavilion, or experience the city's growing food scene. The city provides a more relaxed, affordable lifestyle compared to major coastal metros.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($0):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The university's online-centric model means there is no traditional campus, so standard campus safety concerns are minimal. Sioux Falls is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate compared to national averages.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CIU is primarily known for its online-focused, career-oriented degree programs in Business & Marketing, Computer Science, and Health Professions. It caters to non-traditional students, including working adults, seeking flexible and affordable pathways to advance their careers. The university emphasizes practical skills and professional development over theoretical research.
Based on available data, CIU does not publish a standard acceptance rate, but its open admissions policy for many programs suggests it is not highly selective. The primary requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent. With a small enrollment of 141 students, the focus is on finding motivated candidates who fit the flexible, career-focused model rather than on competitive academic metrics.
CIU does not have a traditional residential campus in the conventional sense, as its primary mode of operation is online. Student life revolves around virtual classrooms, discussion boards, and flexible scheduling that accommodates work and personal commitments. There are no on-campus dorms, sports teams, or Greek life; the 'campus experience' is centered on academic and professional networking.
The financial value is mixed. The tuition is remarkably low at $9,054 per year, minimizing student debt. However, the extremely low graduation rate of 10.2% is a significant concern, as a degree not completed offers little ROI. For a self-motivated student who completes their degree, the low cost makes it a potentially valuable investment, but the risk of non-completion is high.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 393
- In-State Tuition $9,054
- Zip Code 57103
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At just over $9,000 annually, CIU's tuition is significantly lower than the national average for private institutions, making it a financially accessible option. However, the low graduation rate (10.2%) raises concerns about the ultimate return on investment, as completing a degree is key to financial payoff. For motivated students seeking an affordable, flexible path to a credential, the cost is low, but the risk of non-completion is high.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.