Alliant International University: Programs, Accreditation, Campuses and Global Impact

Alliant International University is a private, Public Benefit institution committed to preparing students for professional careers in service and leadership, with a strong focus on global impact and community engagement. Formed through the merger of the California School of Professional Psychology and United States International University in 2001, Alliant offers a wide range of accredited undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across fields like psychology, education, business, law, and forensic studies.

With a primary campus in San Diego and several others across California, as well as robust online offerings, Alliant serves a diverse student body—predominantly graduate students—and emphasizes multicultural competence, hands-on experience, and scholarly innovation.

Accredited by WSCUC and various professional bodies, the university provides financial aid to most students and boasts a faculty of experienced professionals and a global alumni network of over 45,000, including notable figures in politics, entertainment, and public service.

Alliant International University

Alliant International University is a private, Public Benefit university with a distinct focus on preparing students for professional careers of service and leadership. Rooted in a rich history of institutions dedicated to specialized education, Alliant emphasizes the application of knowledge to improve lives across diverse cultures and communities worldwide.

History and Evolution

Alliant International University, in its current form, is a product of the merger and evolution of several distinguished institutions:

• San Francisco Law School (SFLS): Founded in 1909, initially as Balboa Law College in San Diego (1927), and later becoming United States International University (USIU). SFLS joined Alliant in 2010.
• United States International University (USIU): Chartered in 1927, this institution evolved significantly, moving to its current Scripps Ranch location in San Diego in 1968.
• California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP): Established in 1969, CSPP gained a strong reputation in professional psychology education.

In 2001, USIU and CSPP merged to form Alliant International University. A significant milestone was achieved in 2015 when Alliant became the first standalone university to be certified as a Public Benefit institution, a certification it has maintained through subsequent recertifications. This commitment underscores its dedication to a social benefit mission alongside its educational goals.

Mission and Vision

Alliant’s core mission is to:

• Prepare students for professional careers of service and leadership.
• Promote the discovery and application of knowledge to improve the lives of people in diverse cultures and communities around the world.

Its vision is “an inclusive world empowered by Alliant alumni.” This mission is underpinned by four key pillars:

1. Education for Professional Practice: Programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical values necessary for effective service and leadership in various professional settings.
2. Scholarship: Emphasizes the discovery of new knowledge, applications of knowledge to solve practical problems, integration of knowledge, and innovation in teaching.
3. Multicultural and International Competence: A commitment to serving diverse populations globally by preparing professionals to work across cultural and national boundaries and addressing the needs of underserved areas.
4. Community Engagement: Fostering active involvement and contribution to communities.

Alliant’s institutional values are encapsulated in the acronym IMPACT: Inclusion, Mentorship, Passion, Accountability, and Communication.

Accreditation and Approvals

Alliant International University holds comprehensive accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). In addition to this institutional accreditation, many of its specialized programs hold accreditations from relevant professional bodies, including:

• American Psychological Association (APA): For its Clinical Psychology doctoral programs.
• Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE): For its Marriage and Family Therapy master’s and doctoral programs.
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP): For its business programs, including the PhD in Leadership, Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), MBA, MS in Data Analytics, and BS in Business Administration.
• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP): For certain counseling programs.
• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing: For education credential programs in California.
• Arizona State Board of Education: For Arizona Teaching Certification programs.

Campus Locations

Alliant operates with a main campus in San Diego and additional physical campuses in California, alongside a robust online presence. Its California campuses include:

San Diego (Main Campus): Features public mental health clinics offering low-cost services and clinical experience opportunities, particularly with the area’s significant veteran population.

Los Angeles: Offers various psychology programs and practicum sites at institutions like Cedars-Sinai Hospital.

Irvine: Home to COAMFTE-accredited Marital and Family Therapy programs.

Fresno: Known for its Clinical Psychology PsyD program, which received the APA Suinn Minority Achievement Program Award for its excellence in supporting ethnic minority students. It also houses the W. Gary Cannon Psychological Services Center.

Sacramento: Located in the state capital, offering personalized attention with small class sizes.

San Francisco/Emeryville: Features the CSPP San Francisco Bay Assessment Center, providing affordable psychological testing services.

Online Campus: A significant offering providing flexibility and access to many of its programs.

Academic Programs

Alliant International University offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various schools:

Undergraduate Programs:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration
• BS in Hospitality Management
• BS in Information Systems and Technology
• BS in Psychology
• General Education courses

Graduate and Doctoral Programs (by School):

• California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP):
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology
  • Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology
  • Doctor of Psychology in Marital and Family Therapy
  • Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Counseling
  • MA in Marital and Family Therapy
  • Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychopharmacology
  • Doctoral Respecialization Certificate in Clinical Psychology
  • Certificate in LGBT Human Services and Mental Health
• California School of Management and Leadership (CSML):
  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Science (MS) in Data Analytics
  • MS in Healthcare Analytics
  • MS in Information Systems and Technology
  • Certificate in the Internet of Things
• California School of Education:
  • Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership and Management
  • EdD in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • PsyD in Educational Psychology
  • MA in Education – School Psychology with Pupil Personnel Services Credential
  • MA in Education – Special Education
  • Administrative Services Credential
  • Authorization in Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Bilingual Authorization
  • Certificate in California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL)
• California School of Forensic Studies:
  • PhD in Psychology, Public Policy and Law
  • MS in Forensic Behavioral Science
  • Advanced Practice Certificates in areas like Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Criminal Behavior, Disaster Response and Emergency Management, Forensic Linguistics, Forensic Psychology, and Police Psychology.
• San Francisco Law School (SFLS): Offers legal education programs.
• Other Programs:
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Many programs are available in online formats, providing flexibility for diverse student populations.

Student Demographics

In 2023, Alliant International University-San Diego reported a total enrollment of approximately 4,147 students, with about 95% being graduate students. The student body is diverse, with significant representation from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. As of 2023 enrollment data for Alliant International University-San Diego:

• White: 35.7%
• Hispanic or Latino: 31.2%
• Black or African American: 8.13%
• Asian: 7.98%
• Two or More Races: 1.88%
• American Indian or Alaska Native: 0.699%
• Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders: 0.458%
• Non-Resident Alien: 1.31% (based on a broader university demographic report)
• Did not report race: 6.34%

In terms of gender, approximately 75.1% of degrees awarded in 2023 were to women, and 24.9% to men.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The cost of attendance at Alliant International University varies depending on the program and living arrangements. For example, in a recent assessment, the typical total cost for on-campus students was around $29,986, and for off-campus students, it was around $34,117, including tuition, fees, room and board, textbooks, and other expenses.

Alliant offers various forms of financial aid, including need-based grants, merit-based scholarships, and student loans (federal and institutional). Approximately 75% of Alliant students receive some form of financial aid. While the percentage of students receiving grants is lower than the average for private non-profit schools, the university strives to assist students in financing their education. Federal loans are a common form of aid, with a higher percentage of Alliant students taking them out compared to the average for private non-profit schools.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for various aid programs.

Faculty and Research

Alliant’s faculty comprises seasoned working professionals and academics with diverse research interests that align with the university’s professional practice and community engagement pillars. Research areas span a wide range of topics within their respective schools, including:

Psychology: Child maltreatment, school-based mental health services, child/adolescent disruptive behavior disorders, forensic psychology, risk assessment, emergency mental health, correctional psychology, eating disorders, obesity, health behaviors, personality disorders, substance abuse treatment, multicultural and global issues in psychology, and child maltreatment.

Business and Leadership: Information systems and technology (networking architecture, software and IT security, database design and management, IoT applications), organizational leadership, business processes, team building, innovation, creativity, productivity, statistical analysis and modeling, predictive analysis, quantitative research, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, marketing research, operational optimization, and financial mathematics.

Education: Teacher training programs, alternative certification approaches, and curriculum development.

The university encourages practical training through internships, practica, consulting projects, and community service, which often benefit underserved communities.

Notable Alumni

Alliant International University and its legacy institutions boast a network of over 45,000 alumni worldwide who have made significant contributions in various fields. While comprehensive lists are often extensive, some notable alumni include:

• John Barrowman: Scottish-American actor, author, presenter, and singer (known for Doctor Who and Torchwood).
• Judy Chu: American politician, U.S. Representative for California’s 28th congressional district, and the first Chinese American woman elected to Congress.
• Dante Scarnecchia: Former American football offensive line coach, primarily known for his long tenure with the New England Patriots.
• Barry Black: First African American and first Seventh-day Adventist to hold the office of Senate Chaplain.
• Najib Balala: Kenyan politician, former Cabinet Secretary for Tourism.
• Denise Merrill: American politician, former Connecticut Secretary of the State.
• Anthony J. Battaglia: Senior United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.
• Cheryl Arutt: American actress and clinical/forensic psychologist.
• Yvonne Sanchez: American basketball coach.
• Martin Garrick: American politician who served in the California State Assembly.
• Lee Carroll: American channeller, speaker, and author.

Alliant International University continues its commitment to developing professionals who are equipped to make a positive impact in diverse communities globally.

FAQs about Alliant International University

What is Alliant International University known for?
Alliant International University is known for its focus on professional education, multicultural competence, and preparing students for careers in service and leadership, especially in psychology, education, business, and law.

Is Alliant International University accredited?
Yes, it is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and many of its programs have specialized accreditations like APA, COAMFTE, ACBSP, and CACREP.

Where is Alliant International University located?
The main campus is in San Diego, California. Other campuses are in Los Angeles, Irvine, Fresno, Sacramento, San Francisco/Emeryville, and online.

What programs does Alliant offer?
Alliant offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in psychology, education, business, law, nursing, social work, data analytics, and forensic studies.

Are Alliant’s programs available online?
Yes, many programs are available in fully online or hybrid formats, providing flexibility for working professionals and remote learners.

Who accredits the psychology programs at Alliant?
The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits Alliant’s Clinical Psychology doctoral programs, and COAMFTE accredits its Marriage and Family Therapy programs.

What is the student population at Alliant?
As of 2023, the San Diego campus had about 4,147 students, with approximately 95% being graduate students.

Is Alliant a public or private university?
Alliant is a private, nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation dedicated to education and community service.

What financial aid options are available at Alliant?
Students may access federal and institutional loans, need-based grants, and merit scholarships. Around 75% of students receive some form of aid.

How diverse is the student body at Alliant?
The student population is highly diverse, with strong representation of Hispanic/Latino, Black, Asian, and multiracial students. Women earned over 75% of degrees in 2023.

Does Alliant have a strong alumni network?
Yes, Alliant and its legacy institutions have over 45,000 alumni globally, including influential figures in politics, law, healthcare, and entertainment.

What is the cost of attendance at Alliant?
The estimated total cost is around $29,986 for on-campus students and $34,117 for off-campus students, including tuition, housing, and expenses.

What are the core values of Alliant?
Alliant’s values are summed up by the acronym IMPACT: Inclusion, Mentorship, Passion, Accountability, and Communication.

Does Alliant support military or veteran students?
Yes, especially at the San Diego campus, which offers public mental health clinics and services tailored to veterans.

What kind of faculty teaches at Alliant?
Alliant’s faculty includes experienced professionals and researchers with expertise in psychology, education, business, law, and healthcare.

What makes Alliant a Public Benefit university?
Alliant prioritizes public service, community engagement, and ethical leadership alongside academic excellence, which led to its Public Benefit certification in 2015.

What research opportunities are available at Alliant?
Research areas include clinical psychology, forensic psychology, education, business analytics, leadership, and multicultural mental health, often with community impact.

What is the history of Alliant International University?
Alliant was formed in 2001 from the merger of the California School of Professional Psychology and United States International University. Its legacy institutions date back to 1909.

Can international students apply to Alliant?
Yes, international students are welcome, and the university offers support for visa processes and global learning.

What legal education does Alliant offer?
Through San Francisco Law School, Alliant provides legal education with a focus on accessibility for working professionals.

What is the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP)?
CSPP is a major school within Alliant offering APA- and COAMFTE-accredited programs in clinical, counseling, and family therapy psychology.

What support services are available to students?
Alliant provides academic advising, career services, financial aid counseling, mental health support, and internship/practicum placement assistance.

Are there any clinics or hands-on training facilities?
Yes, Alliant operates several mental health clinics, including those in San Diego and Fresno, offering real-world experience and community service.

How do I apply to Alliant?
You can apply online through Alliant’s website. Requirements vary by program but typically include transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement.

Does Alliant offer part-time or evening classes?
Yes, many programs are designed to accommodate working professionals with part-time, evening, and online options.

How does Alliant engage with the community?
Through public clinics, service-learning, research, and partnerships, Alliant integrates community engagement into academic and professional training.

What is the university’s mission and vision?
Alliant’s mission is to prepare students for careers of service and leadership, with a vision of creating an inclusive world empowered by its alumni.