About American InterContinental University

Things you should know about AIU

Founded in 1970, American InterContinental University offers a wide range of Associate, Bachelor's and Master's degree programs.

Our multi-campus institution of higher learning is focused on helping students acquire industry-current knowledge and skills as they pursue, build and advance their careers in many of today's most in-demand fields.

We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have about our degree programs, our campuses and how we may support you as you begin the pursuit of your personal, professional and academic goals. Please contact us for additional information, or click the links on this page to learn more about the university.

AIU Mission and Goals

AIU Mission

American InterContinental University's mission is to provide for the varying educational needs of a culturally diverse and geographically dispersed student body with the goal of preparing students academically, personally, and professionally for successful careers.

Philosophy and Purpose

American InterContinental University believes it has a special commitment to support each individual's goals. To this end, the university places emphasis on the educational, professional, and personal growth of each student. Programs, policies, and activities, which have been designed to implement this philosophy and purpose statement, are evaluated periodically and changed, as necessary, to meet the needs of the student body and the institution.

AIU, as an international institution of higher education, encourages global understanding by providing an atmosphere of cultural diversity and opportunities for international education.

Goals of the University

In support of its philosophy and mission, AIU's goals are as follows:

To enable an international student population to achieve personal and professional goals
To enable students to rely on their cultural heritage and background as a foundation for their learning, growth and change
To guide students in adapting their knowledge, training, and skills to the workplace
To foster the development of critical thinking and lifelong learning skills
To instill the importance of ethical behavior, responsibility, and professional standards
To provide academic programs, services, facilities, and technologies that support team-based learning and contribute to students' intellectual development and person growth
To retain a diverse faculty comprised of experienced, qualified educators with industry-current expertise
To coach and prepare students for job placement and career success, utilizing a network of professional and business contacts

History of the University

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

American InterContinental University (AIU) was founded in Europe in 1970 on the premise that universities should transcend the bounds of the traditional, theoretical approach to education by providing students with a curriculum that is designed to prepare them for successful, productive careers. For many years, AIU has offered this innovative approach to education at its campuses in London, established in 1977; Atlanta-Buckhead, established in 1977; Los Angeles, established in 1982; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, established in 1995.

In 1998, additional campuses were established in Atlanta-Dunwoody and South Florida. AIU Online began in 2001 and was recognized as a separate campus in 2002. In 2003, an additional campus was added in Houston, Texas.

AIU is committed to developing curricula that provide students with career preparation in business, criminal justice, design and media arts, engineering, education, and information technology. The university's success in this endeavor is reflected in the presence of its graduates throughout the international business community, the achievements of its alumni, and the commitment of its faculty.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend AIU Online

Our amazing Virtual Campus offers options and opportunities for today's motivated, career-focused students.

For career-focused students looking to pursue opportunities in an increasingly competitive job market, an industry-current education can be an excellent way to enhance qualifications and build real-world credentials. But pursuing a degree at a traditional college is not a viable option for individuals who also must consider the demands made by their current professional and personal responsibilities.

AIU Online offers a convenient, flexible alternative that enables you to fit a career-focused education into your current lifestyle. Students enrolled at our university have many reasons for choosing AIU Online, but the common denominator is our commitment to quality, convenience and anytime access.

Here are a few of the reasons the University is the right choice for thousands of motivated professionals seeking to earn a career-focused education without disrupting their real-world lifestyles.

A regionally accredited institution of higher learning
AIU Online is a branch campus of American InterContinental University, Atlanta, Georgia. American InterContinental University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees. This umbrella accreditation includes all approved branch campuses of the University, including AIU Online originating in Illinois.
AIU Online's Flexible Scheduling Plan
Students now have a choice in determining how quickly they can graduate with an industry-current Associate's degree. AIU Online's Flexible Scheduling Plan is a flexible course-scheduling model designed to meet the needs of career-focused professionals who have real-world responsibilities. The Take 2 option remains the choice for students interested in earning their Associate's degree as quickly as possible. Students learn at an accelerated pace and graduate fast. Students pursuing an Associate's degree can also choose the Take 1 option, which permits them to take just one course during each 5-week session.
Instructors with experience in the fields they teach
First-hand knowledge can be an excellent way for you to prepare for career pursuits in the real world. At AIU Online, your instructors have "been there, done that" and know not only what it takes to create career opportunities in your field of interest but also how you'll be able to apply your industry-current education once you make your move.
A rich, interactive learning model that is at the forefront of modern education
The richness of the learning experience offered at AIU Online really should be seen to be believed. Our amazingly interactive Virtual Campus offers students a true academic environment in which to pursue their interests and achieve their goal of earning a career-focused degree.

When you attend our university, you'll view fascinating lectures and course content via rich multimedia presentations. You'll interact one-on-one and in groups with your instructors and fellow classmates, via email, online chats and discussion boards. You'll complete meaningful group projects. And you'll develop a network of contacts, friendships and relationships with likeminded, career-focused students from around the world.

AIU Online's intuitive approach to education can enable you to acclimate fast to the wonders of online learning. If you are considering enrolling, you should know that it's very easy to familiarize yourself with the Virtual Campus, access your courses and interact with your instructors and classmates.
Career-focused degree programs and concentrations to help you build market-relevant credentials
In today's competitive job market, advanced education can be an excellent way to enhance your qualifications to pursue your professional dreams. At AIU Online, we offer industry-current degree programs in today's in-demand industries to help students add to their credentials by acquiring applicable, real-world knowledge and skills in their field of interest.
The AIU Online Learning Center
AIU Online is committed to providing students with the resources and support they need to achieve their personal, professional and academic goals. Our online Learning Center is indicative of this commitment, offering support services that now include:
- Online Learning Labs. These supplemental study sessions are available in several different subject areas and are designed to enhance your classroom performance free of charge. Current offerings include: English, Math, Art and Design, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and APA Citation Style. All Learning Labs are designed and facilitated by AIU Online faculty members. Students are free to participate in as many sessions as they wish and may repeat the labs as needed.
- One-on-One Tutoring. Free tutoring sessions with AIU Online faculty members conducted live in real-time via Adobe® Connect™ technology. Tutoring will be available on a limited basis starting in June 2007 for MTH 132, with additional tutoring offerings planned for Summer 2007.
A growing community of successful graduates
AIU Online is proud of the accomplishments of our graduates throughout the international business community. Our ultimate goal is to prepare students academically, personally and professionally for successful careers in their chosen fields.

The AIU Online Alumni Association serves graduates by keeping them connected to their university, their classmates and their dreams.
A team-based approach to academic success
From one-on-one academic guidance to career development assistance, students and alumni of AIU Online benefit from a personalized commitment to their ultimate satisfaction, success and achievement. From the minute you first contact our university through the days long after graduation, you'll have a dedicated team of professionals with your personal, professional and academic goals in mind.
A Career Services department that can help you focus on your future from day one
When you enroll at AIU Online, you'll have help achieving your goals from your Career Services Advisor. From helping you create a professional resume and draft a winning cover letter to conducting practice interviews and helping you identify opportunities and contacts in your chosen field, these professionals are dedicated to helping you stay focused on your professional goals.
Our 24/7 Technical Support team
Online learning is an amazing experience, and it sometimes requires an expert's knowledge in configuring software or answering questions about the rich multimedia technology we use to provide you with an immersive academic environment. AIU Online Technical Support is available 24/7 to help you get online, stay online and learn online.

Accreditation

American InterContinental University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees. This umbrella accreditation includes the following branch campuses of the University: AIU Buckhead; AIU Dunwoody; AIU South Florida; AIU London; AIU Houston; AIU Los Angeles; AIU Online (originating in Illinois); and American University in Dubai.

FAQ about AIU

If you don't ask the questions, you'll never know the answers!

We are confident that you will discover many reasons to consider enrolling at AIU. As you begin researching the many benefits of attending the university, you are likely to encounter questions about our degree programs, the learning experience you should expect from the university and the processes involved in enrolling in and attending classes.

Many of the answers to these questions can be found on this page. If you are in the military, an international student who is not a permanent resident of the United States, please click on the links below to visit a separate page addressing questions specific to your situation.

If your questions about AIU are not answered here, we invite you to contact us for additional information at any time.

Accreditation Questions

How is American InterContinental University accredited?

Major universities in the United States can seek accreditation by six regional accrediting organizations. The regions are set up geographically, and colleges and universities are required to adhere to high-quality standards to maintain accreditation.

American InterContinental University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees. This umbrella accreditation includes the following branch campuses of the University: AIU Buckhead; AIU Dunwoody; AIU South Florida; AIU London; AIU Houston; AIU Los Angeles; AIU Online (originating in Illinois); and American University in Dubai.

Top of FAQs

Does AIU support transfer of credit to and from other colleges or universities?

AIU seeks students who can build on their previous collegiate, educational or employment experiences and move successfully to complete degree programs of study. In applicable academic programs, transfer credit may be accepted by AIU from any United States institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education. In addition, AIU will review requests for transfer credits from international institutions.

Courses accepted for transfer must be relevant to the program of study, and the content and outcomes must be considered as the equivalent of the courses and outcomes of the AIU degree program. Please contact the Admissions department for full details.

Top of FAQs

Admissions Questions

What is the admissions process?

We invite you to visit our campuses to meet with one of our Admissions Advisors. The AIU Admissions team is dedicated to helping you feel comfortable about your academic choices. We'll be with you every step of the way to help you make the program choice that fits your educational and career goals.

At AIU, you'll discover a diverse student body and a dynamic learning environment. During your campus visit, your Admissions Advisor will take you for a tour of university facilities, including classrooms, computer labs and library. The goal of the admissions process is to help you make the right choice.

If you are like most students, you will have many questions about getting started in college. Your Admissions Advisor will be there to answer all your questions and concerns. If you have questions before your campus visit, you may also contact us at any time. We also encourage all prospective students to download our current catalog, which includes additional information about our campuses and our admissions process.

It is also possible for students living far away from one of our campuses to complete an online application for admission.

Top of FAQs

Why do students choose AIU?

One major difference between AIU and many other colleges and universities is our culturally diverse student population. AIU students come from many different countries and backgrounds and bring a wide range of viewpoints, special interests and talents to enrich the learning community.

For every student, choosing a university that meets their goals often involves numerous criteria. We have compiled many of the major contributing factors that most students agree were instrumental in their choosing AIU to acquire their industry-current, real-world education. We encourage all prospective students to read these Top 10 Reasons to Attend AIU.

Top of FAQs

Academic Program Questions

What academic programs are offered at AIU?

American InterContinental University offers a wide range of career-focused undergraduate (Associate and Baccalaureate) degree programs in many of today's in-demand professional fields, including: Business, Criminal Justice, Design and Media Arts, Engineering and Information Technology.

Our university also offers graduate (Master's) degrees in Business, Education and Information Technology.

Specific degree programs differ from campus to campus. Students are encouraged to visit the campus links to learn more about available degree programs at each location.

Top of FAQs

What's different about AIU degree programs?

American InterContinental University's goal is to prepare students academically, personally and professionally for successful careers. Programs, policies and activities have been designed to implement this philosophy and are evaluated periodically and changed, as necessary, to meet the needs of our students and the changing needs of the world around us.

AIU's career-focused degree programs are industry current, offering students the opportunity to acquire real-world knowledge and skills that can be applied in many of today's most in-demand professional fields.

Top of FAQs

Does AIU offer an exchange program between campuses?

The opportunity for an international education is enhanced by the option for students to transfer among the campuses in Buckhead, Dubai (United Arab Emirates), Dunwoody, South Florida, Houston, London and Los Angeles. Students who take advantage of this exchange program are provided a variety of multicultural experiences and self-development options to meet the challenges and requirements of today's rapidly changing world.

To transfer to another AIU campus to take courses that are in academic programs equal to the program the student was admitted to, a student must:

Be in good academic standing with the institution (CGPA of 2.0 for undergraduate programs and CGPA of 3.0 in graduate programs).
Be in good standing with the Housing Department from the campus from which they are transferring (if applicable).
Have met all financial obligations at the campus location from which they plan to transfer.

Students should contact the Student Affairs Department to obtain further information on transfer among all AIU campuses.

Top of FAQs

Financial Aid Questions

What financial aid is offered by AIU?

Many AIU students take advantage of the financial aid options available to assist with their educational costs. The university participates in a variety of financial aid programs for the benefit of students. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.

Our Financial Aid Office welcomes opportunities to assist students with their pursuit of the financial aid for which they qualify. If you encounter questions about the financial aid process, or if you would like to learn more about various grants, scholarships, loans and earned assistance available through AIU, please contact us or download the AIU Catalog.

University grants or scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University’s catalog and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.

Top of FAQs

Can I use tuition reimbursement to pay for my education?

Yes. If you are accepted to AIU, a Financial Aid Advisor will explain to you how this process works and will assist you with other items pertaining to financial aid.

All students are encouraged to research outside assistance that may be offered through other organizations, such as your company's human resources department.

Most public libraries provide publications listing educational benefits offered by agencies throughout the United States. The AIU Catalog also provides a significant amount of information regarding grants, scholarships and loans available to students who qualify.

University grants or scholarships are based on established criteria as published in the University’s catalog and are awarded after verification that the conditions of eligibility have been met.

Top of FAQs

Learning Experience Questions

What is the learning experience like at AIU?

As an institution of higher learning, AIU maintains that the ability to communicate, to conceptualize and to demonstrate appropriate behavioral skills are necessary for rewarding and productive careers in today's team-based, high-performance work environments.

The AIU Asynchronous Learning Model is designed to develop these skills and outcomes for students using an integrated delivery system that includes a combination of face-to-face classroom instruction and web-based learning modules.

As a student at AIU, you'll work in teams with your classmates and have an opportunity to learn to develop the techniques and tools utilized by professionals working in your desired career field. Our goal is to maintain small class sizes, thereby enabling students to receive the focused attention they deserve.

At AIU, students can learn in an industry-current environment where classrooms are designed to simulate a corporate setting and computers, software and other learning tools are industry-standard and easily accessible.

To ensure that our students are getting the most from their education, all of our programs, policies and activities are reviewed and updated to keep up with changing business environments.

Top of FAQs

Who teaches the classes?

At AIU, classes are led by instructors with real-world experience in the fields they teach, providing students with inside knowledge of what it takes to be successful in today's job market.

Our experienced staff and faculty are dedicated to our students' pursuit of excellence. They are known for their ability to inspire students as well as provide instruction.

Top of FAQs

Does AIU offer career planning assistance after graduation?

AIU offers full-time Career Services that provide students and alumni the opportunity to receive individualized career guidance and career research assistance. Such assistance is available upon graduation as well as throughout the graduate's career.

While AIU makes no guarantee relative to securing employment, the Career Services Department can provide assistance related to the job search process.

Top of FAQs