Columbia International University ranks among the best universities in the Southeast in three categories in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.
CIU is #7 in for Social Mobility among Regional Universities (South), and #17 for Best Value among Regional Universities (South).
The Social Mobility ranking is important for students who are economically disadvantaged and less likely to finish college. The survey indicates CIU is among the best in making sure these students succeed.
Provost Dr. Jim Lanpher says the high Social Mobility ranking reflects CIU’s mission to make a quality education possible for every student who desires to be educated from a biblical worldview.
“This honor reflects our Christ-centered commitment to providing access, support and opportunity so that students from every background can flourish in their calling,” Lanpher said.
Lanpher also considers it an honor to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Southeast’s Best Value universities. This ranking considers a school’s academic quality and the net cost of attendance for a student who received the average level of need-based financial aid. The higher the quality of the program and the lower the cost, the better the deal.
“This recognition affirms our commitment to providing an excellent education that is both academically strong and financially accessible, ensuring our students receive exceptional preparation for life and career at a cost that reflects true value,” Lanpher said.
Meanwhile, in a new school year when CIU is celebrating record-breaking enrollment, the university is also celebrating another year in the top 50 among Regional Universities (South) at #45. It is the third year in a row that U.S. News & World Report has ranked CIU in the top 50.
This year’s total CIU enrollment has climbed to 3,179 students, a more than 8% increase from last year’s final census.
Founded in 1923, Columbia International University is private, Christian and multidenominational. With over 3,100 students studying on campus or online, CIU specializes in Bible-centered professional development that prepares students to impact the nations with the message of Christ in ministry, missions and the marketplace. CIU is recognized for its emphasis on biblical authority and world evangelization. www.ciu.edu
