Overview
Founded in 1968 by philosopher Haridas Chaudhuri, the California Institute of Integral Studies emerged from the East-West cultural exchange movement, seeking to integrate Eastern wisdom traditions with Western academic scholarship. It became particularly renowned for pioneering programs in transpersonal psychology, integral studies, and consciousness studies, areas in which it remains a recognized leader. CIIS has cultivated a distinctive academic reputation as a haven for students interested in the intersections of psychology, spirituality, social justice, and the arts, often attracting those pursuing nontraditional or interdisciplinary paths not available at conventional universities.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | San Francisco, California |
| Founded | 1968 |
| Total students | 1,400 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 75% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $55,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $21,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,000 |
| Room & board | $18,000 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Clinical Psychology
- Integrative Health Studies
- Transformative Studies
- Counseling Psychology
- Drama Therapy
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.