History
Discover the Legacy of CIU
For over a century, Columbia International University has been transforming lives through Christ-centered education.
From its humble beginnings in 1921 with a group of faithful “praying ladies” to becoming a globally recognized institution, CIU has remained steadfast in its mission to prepare students to impact the nations with the message of Jesus Christ.
Throughout our history, we’ve broken barriers, embraced innovation, and expanded our reach to serve students from all walks of life. Whether it’s pioneering racial unity in education, launching life-changing initiatives like the CIU Prison Program, or achieving national championships in athletics, every milestone reflects our commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Explore our timeline below to witness how CIU’s rich history has shaped its present and continues to inspire its future. Be part of a legacy that’s making an eternal difference.
1921
A Prayerful Beginning
A group of faithful women, known as the “praying ladies,” establish the Southern Bible Institute, offering classes in Bible, child study, and personal evangelism—laying the foundation for CIU’s legacy.
1922–1923
Columbia Bible School Takes Shape
The school becomes Columbia Bible School and begins classes at the historic Colonia Hotel, symbolizing its early commitment to providing accessible, Christ-centered education.
1929
A New Identity
The South Carolina Board of Education approves Columbia Bible School to offer a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Education. The institution becomes Columbia Bible College (CBC), cementing its role as a degree-granting higher education institution.
1960
A New Campus, A Bold Vision
Relocation to the expansive Monticello Road campus begins. With over 400 acres and the highest elevation in Columbia, SC, the campus becomes a symbol of CIU’s growth and ambition.
1963
Breaking Barriers
CBC becomes the first higher education institution in South Carolina to voluntarily admit a Black student, Peter Spencer, demonstrating its commitment to evangelical unity and racial reconciliation.
1988
Ben Lippen School Joins the Campus
The prestigious Ben Lippen School moves from Asheville, NC, to the CBC campus, providing Christian education for Pre-K to 12th-grade students and expanding CBC’s educational reach.
1994
A Global Mission
Columbia Bible College (CBC) becomes Columbia International University (CIU). The Korntal, Germany campus receives accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), signifying CIU’s expanding global footprint.
1998
Growth in Graduate Programs
The Schuster Building is constructed, adding much-needed space for CIU’s thriving seminary and graduate programs.
2006
Fitness & Fellowship
The Moore Fitness Center opens, creating a hub for student activities and laying the foundation for CIU’s entry into intercollegiate athletics.
2007
Spreading the Gospel Behind Bars
The CIU Prison Initiative launches, offering an Associate of Arts degree to inmates. These graduates become chaplain assistants, bringing hope and the gospel to South Carolina prisons.
2010
A Place to Call Home
Pine View Apartments and the Community Center are built, providing upperclassmen, staff, and alumni with modern living spaces and strengthening the CIU community.
2012
Rams Take the Field
CIU Rams join intercollegiate athletics in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) with men’s soccer and men’s and women’s cross country.
2016
Building Global Connections
The Chinese Initiative Program launches, furthering CIU’s mission to impact the nations for Christ.
2018
Joining the NAIA
CIU becomes a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and begins competing in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) during the 2018–2019 academic year, elevating its athletic programs.
2019
Equipping Future Leaders
The William H. Jones Global Business and IT Center is constructed, offering cutting-edge resources for business and nursing students to prepare them for global leadership.
2020–2021
Making History in Athletics
John Hunter James wins back-to-back NAIA Indoor Track & Field Men’s Pole Vault National Championships, becoming CIU’s first individual national champion.
2021
A Championship Legacy Begins
In its inaugural full season, CIU Rams baseball wins the NCCAA World Series, and the Women’s Volleyball team claims an NCCAA national championship, marking a historic year for CIU athletics.
2022
Advancing Science & Innovation
CIU cuts the ribbon on a state-of-the-art Health Science Lab and launches new majors in Biology and Biomedical Science to prepare students for careers in healthcare and research.
2024
Record-Breaking Growth
CIU celebrates 96% enrollment growth since 2019, achieving record-breaking numbers. Campus renovations include upgrades to the Rossi Student Center, Choir Room, sand volleyball and pickleball courts. Deandre Leith becomes an NAIA National Champion in shot put.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
Columbia International University’s history is built on faith, vision, and a relentless commitment to preparing leaders who will transform the world for Christ. As we continue to grow, we invite you to be part of our ongoing story. Whether you’re considering becoming a student, partnering with us, or supporting us through donations, your involvement helps continue the legacy of shaping lives for eternal impact.
Together, we can carry forward the mission of CIU—training tomorrow’s leaders to spread the gospel, serve their communities, and make a difference across the globe.
