Columbia Southern University logo

Columbia Southern University

Orange Beach, AL

private forprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1993
Founded
Private for-profit online university
Type
13,053
Total Students
13,111
Undergrad
5,376
Graduate
$6K
Tuition (In-State)
$6K
Tuition (Out-State)
$15K
Avg Net Price
37%
Graduation Rate
6-year
59%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Ken Styron

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Columbia Southern University

CSU: Flexible online education empowering working professionals since 1993.

Columbia Southern University stands as a testament to the power of accessible education, pioneering online learning since its founding in 1993 by Robert G. Mayes Sr. As a private, for-profit online university, CSU was designed with the working professional in mind, offering a flexible and engaging educational experience that integrates seamlessly into busy lives. It's an ideal choice for individuals seeking to advance their careers or acquire new skills without the constraints of traditional campus-based programs.

From its inception, CSU quickly established a robust academic foundation. Just a year after its founding in 1994, the university launched its initial degree programs in vital fields like Environmental Engineering and Occupational Safety and Health. This early focus on practical, in-demand areas set the tone for its curriculum. By 1996, CSU had rapidly expanded its offerings to include Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science, Criminal Justice Administration, and Health Administration, showcasing its commitment to a diverse and career-focused academic portfolio.

Today, Columbia Southern University continues its legacy of empowering students, serving a substantial body of 18,487 learners under the leadership of President Ken Styron. The university's unwavering dedication to online delivery ensures that students can pursue their educational goals with unparalleled flexibility, making it a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality, convenient, and career-relevant education from anywhere in the world. It provides the tools for students to take control of their educational journey and unlock their professional potential.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1993, a pioneer in online higher education.
  • Serves a substantial student body of 18,487, catering to a diverse range of learners.
  • Offers a fully online learning experience, providing exceptional flexibility for working professionals.
  • Launched foundational degree programs in vital fields like Environmental Engineering and Occupational Safety and Health in 1994.
  • Rapidly expanded academic offerings by 1996 to include Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration, Computer Science, Criminal Justice Administration, and Health Administration.

Timeline

1993
Founded by Robert G. Mayes Sr.
1994
Developed first degree programs in Environmental Engineering and Occupational Safety and Health.
1996
Expanded degree offerings to include Business Administration, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, and Health Administration.
2005
Robert Mayes Jr. assumed the presidency after his father's death.
2018
Ken Styron became president.
🏛️
33 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Ken Styron
President
Janell Gibson
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Columbia Southern University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search