Have you ever wondered what sets certain Day 1 CPT schools apart? Consider the California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM) in Alhambra, California. It often goes unnoticed compared to Westcliff University and Sophia University. CIAM's campus is modest, but what makes it a standout choice for CPT schools? Let's take a closer look.
CIAM has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, with classes averaging 13 students, all taught by faculty. The institute follows management expert Peter Drucker's principles, emphasizing practical application. Students engage in consulting and business simulation projects.
Why focus on CIAM, and how does it compare to others? CIAM has low academic pressure, with some courses not requiring exams, and students visit the campus once per term. Weekly assignments take about an hour. CIAM's tuition is reasonable, and international students can access scholarships to reduce costs. CIAM offers MBA programs in project management and business analytics, catering to diverse professional interests.
Is CIAM your preferred choice for Day 1 CPT?
Absolutely! GoElite has brought over 50 students to the campus, and they are thrilled with the setup, courses, and support provided in the CPT process. We are excited to share more details with you!
The advantages of CIAM include:
- Flexible program duration—complete a master's degree in either 12 or 24 months.
- Hybrid teaching model—combining online and on-site courses.
- Day-1 CPT—offering CPT internships from day one, with the possibility of year-round participation.
- Ideal location—the campus is just a 15-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles.
- Affordable tuition—total program cost of $24,000 (including textbook fees).
- Premier business school courses—most CIAM instructors hold PhDs from prestigious universities, with some faculty teaching at other notable institutions (including UC and Cal State).
- Generous scholarship opportunities—Goelite's exclusive $1000 scholarship plus up to $3000 in excellence scholarships.
- Flexible class schedules—starting Spring 1, 2024, CIAM adopts a new Professional format, requiring only one campus visit per term, for two days. Classes are held on Saturdays from 9 am-9 pm and Sundays from 9 am-2 pm.
- Consulting projects with leading enterprises—partnerships with renowned companies such as Universal Studios and Coca-Cola, involving students in elite consulting projects.
- Low academic pressure—some courses do not require exams or tests.
Graduate Programs at CIAM
CIAM offers the following graduate programs for international students, all these MBA tracks support Day 1 CPT:
- Master of Business Administration in Executive Management
- MBA in Executive Management with a Concentration in Project Management
- MBA in Executive Management with a Concentration in Business Analytics
In 2025, CIAM has introduced a new MS Data Analytics [STEM] program for both local and online students, and they plan to expand their offerings with additional STEM programs to accommodate more Day 1 CPT students.
Accreditations
Many students are concerned about the legitimacy of "CPT schools" and whether they are officially recognized. A school lacking authoritative accreditation can negatively impact your life and jeopardize your legal status in the United States.
Whether choosing CIAM or another institution, ensure it has official U.S. accreditation. CIAM is accredited by:
- The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) at the highest level.
- The Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPE).
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
- The U.S. Department of Education (USDOE).
- The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
These accreditations affirm the school's educational quality and ensure you can confidently participate in CPT work opportunities.
Tuition and Scholarships
An important consideration is selecting an affordable school that meets your requirements, especially since not everyone has abundant financial resources. Initially, applying through Wildfire Education might make you eligible for a special $1000 scholarship. Furthermore, you can apply for additional scholarships offered by the school. Many of these scholarships are easily accessible and can significantly help reduce your costs.
- President's Scholarship/Women in Leadership Scholarship (for female students with work experience; requires a 300-500 word essay).
- Management as a Liberal Art Scholarship (open to all students; requires a 300-500 word essay).
- Joseph A. Maciarello First Generation Scholarship (for first-generation college students; requires a 300-500 word essay).
- Academic Excellence Scholarship (for students maintaining a GPA of 3.8 or above; requires transcript submission).
- Entrepreneurship Scholarship (for entrepreneurs; requires proof of business venture).
- International Scholarship (for new international students; requires proof of status).
The MBA program costs approximately $26,000 in total, which breaks down to $13,000 per academic year or $4,333 per term, with textbook fees included. Tuition must be paid five business days before the semester begins, and a $50 late fee will be charged for any delayed payments.
Read More:
- CIAM
Afterthought
When choosing a CPT school, consider its location to save on commuting, select a program that interests you, and check tuition fees to ease financial stress. If interested in CIAM or another CPT school, contact us for a quick response.
Let's talk!
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