American Intercontinental University

American InterContinental University (AIU) is a private for-profit university with its headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois. It employs open admissions. American InterContinental University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The university is owned by the for-profit company Perdoceo Education Corporation, publicly traded on the NASDAQ under PRDO and formerly known as Career Education Corporation. 

American InterContinental University (AIU) was founded in 1970 in Lucerne, Switzerland, by Jack and Helen Barnette. Originally named the American Fashion College of Switzerland, the institution aimed to provide American-style education in Europe. By 1971, AIU was chartered as a degree-granting institution in the United States, and in 1974, it began offering bachelor's degrees .
 

In 1976, AIU expanded to the United States by opening a campus in Atlanta, Georgia, known as the American College for the Applied Arts. Two years later, in 1978, the original Lucerne campus was relocated to London, becoming the American College in London . Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, AIU continued its expansion, establishing campuses in Los Angeles (1982), Dubai (1995), Atlanta Dunwoody (1998), and South Florida (1998) .
 

In 1996, entrepreneur Steve Bostic acquired the institution and rebranded it as American InterContinental University. This period marked a shift towards a broader curriculum beyond fashion and design, incorporating programs in business, information technology, and criminal justice. In 2001, AIU was acquired by Career Education Corporation, now known as Perdoceo Education Corporation, which further expanded the university's reach .
 

Recognizing the growing demand for flexible learning options, AIU launched its online campus in 2001, which was officially recognized as a separate campus in 2002. This move allowed AIU to offer degree programs entirely online, catering to working professionals and non-traditional students. By 2009, AIU Online had become a significant component of the university's offerings, with a substantial portion of its student body enrolled in online programs .
 

Today, AIU operates campuses in Atlanta and Houston, in addition to its extensive online programs. The university offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees across various fields, including business administration, information technology, criminal justice, education, and healthcare management. AIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that its programs meet established standards of quality and rigor .
 

Throughout its history, American InterContinental University has evolved to meet the changing needs of its students, emphasizing flexibility, accessibility, and career-focused education. Its commitment to providing practical, real-world skills continues to attract a diverse student population seeking to advance their education and professional goals.

American InterContinental University (AIU) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to meet the needs of students seeking flexible, career-oriented education. With a strong emphasis on online learning, AIU's programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and non-traditional students.

At the undergraduate level, AIU's Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program stands out as a popular choice among students. This program offers concentrations in areas such as accounting, finance, healthcare management, human resources, marketing, and operations management, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in business principles. The BBA program is designed to prepare graduates for various roles in the business sector, equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern business environment.

Another prominent undergraduate offering is the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. This program delves into the intricacies of the criminal justice system, covering topics like law enforcement, corrections, and the judiciary. Students gain insights into criminal behavior, legal procedures, and ethical considerations, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields.
 

In the realm of graduate education, AIU's Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is a flagship offering. The MBA program provides concentrations in areas such as finance, healthcare management, human resource management, marketing, operations management, and project management. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes practical application of business theories, strategic decision-making, and leadership skills, aiming to enhance career advancement opportunities for its graduates.

AIU also offers a Master of Education (M.Ed.) program, catering to educators seeking to deepen their expertise. The M.Ed. program includes concentrations in curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and instructional design and technology. This program is structured to provide educators with advanced knowledge and skills to improve teaching practices, develop effective curricula, and assume leadership roles within educational institutions.
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Furthermore, AIU's Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program addresses the growing demand for IT professionals. The MSIT program offers concentrations in information assurance and security, IT project management, and software engineering. Students in this program acquire advanced technical skills and knowledge to manage and implement IT solutions effectively, preparing them for leadership roles in the technology sector.

Overall, AIU's array of undergraduate and graduate programs reflects its commitment to providing accessible, flexible, and career-focused education. By offering specialized programs in business, criminal justice, education, and information technology, AIU aims to equip students with the competencies required to excel in their chosen professions.

American InterContinental University does not appear in major global MBA rankings such as those published by U.S. News & World Report, Financial Times, or QS World University Rankings. Consequently, AIU's MBA program is not featured in these prominent lists. However, AIU's MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), a recognized accrediting body for business education. This accreditation signifies that the program meets certain standards of quality and rigor in business education. 
 

AIU offers a fully online MBA program designed for flexibility, catering to working professionals seeking to advance their careers. The program covers various aspects of business administration and can be completed in as little as one year. While AIU's MBA program may not be ranked globally, it provides an accessible option for individuals looking to pursue advanced business education online. Prospective students should consider their specific career goals and educational needs when evaluating the suitability of AIU's MBA program

American InterContinental University (AIU) reports that approximately 80% of its graduates are employed within two years of graduation. This statistic reflects the university's efforts to support students in transitioning from academic programs to the workforce. While AIU's graduation rate is relatively low—around 21%—the institution emphasizes career readiness through its Career Services Department. This department offers individualized career guidance and research assistance to students and alumni, aiming to enhance their employment prospects.

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