Indiana Wesleyan University: Hybrid CPT programs near Chicago

University Overview

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU), the largest private university in Indiana, boasts a rich history grounded in its evangelical Christian values and dedication to academic excellence. Established in 1920 as Marion College by the Wesleyan Methodist Church on the former site of the Marion Normal Institute, the institution originally focused on teacher education. In 1921, it began offering Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, marking its evolution into a liberal arts college. The university adopted the name Indiana Wesleyan University in 1988 to reflect its expanding mission and influence. With the creation of IWU—National & Global, the university extended its reach further by providing flexible evening, weekend, and online programs for working adults. Today, IWU educates nearly 14,000 students, including more than 10,000 enrolled in online and regional education centers, solidifying its role as a leader in evangelical Christian higher education.

Accreditation

IWU is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). IWU also holds specialized accreditations for many of its programs. The School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and its business programs by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These recognitions ensure IWU meets high academic standards, offering students respected credentials in their fields.

IWU's CPT programs are taught at their Merrillville, Indiana Campus, which provides international students with the opportunity to gain practical work experience alongside their studies. Merrillville’s prime location offers easy access to major cities, with Chicago just 40 miles away (a one-hour trip by car or bus), Detroit 270 miles northeast (4.5 to 5 hours by car, or 8 hours by bus), and Indianapolis 150 miles south (2.5 to 3 hours by car).

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) can authorize its international students for a full-time CPT in accordance with USCIS regulations. International students (including Transfer F1 and Initial F1 students) can apply to work on CPT from the first day of enrollment. There is no gap in CPT authorization during the academic year, and students can use CPT for work 365 days a year.

CPT Activation Timing: Indiana Wesleyan University allows students to activate their CPT work authorizations on the start date of each semester (with three semesters per year, totaling six enrollment windows). There is no gap between CPT authorizations.
CPT Application: To apply for CPT, the employer's signature is required on the CPT Agreement, which must be submitted before the CPT application deadline.

Students can apply for CPT at any time during the program.
Maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above is essential for students. Failure to do so may result in the termination of your CPT.

Attendance is mandatory for students; failure to attend onsite courses will result in the loss of F1 status.
Onsite Requirement: 1/semester
Onsite Days: Friday and Saturday 9 AM - 4:30 PM (1st residency includes Thursday afternoon.
Students can provide essential documents to take leave.

Campbellsville University, in accordance with USCIS regulations, grants CPT work authorization to students. Typically, international students need to be enrolled for over a year before they can apply for CPT.

Due to program requirements, students in the MSITM and PMBA programs can apply for CPT authorization starting from their first semester and engage in either full-time or part-time work. The MSCS, MSCC, and MSDSAI programs allow students who have already obtained a Master's degree in the US to apply for CPT authorization from their first semester for either full-time or part-time work.

Students in these five programs can continuously apply for CPT during their studies without interruption. To utilize CPT, students need to enroll in the BA500 Graduate Management Externship Course (0 credits) every semester. CPT authorization needs to be renewed annually.

Day 1 CPT at Campbellsville University

Day 1 CPT Class Requirement

Campbellsville University's graduate program is divided into three semesters in a year: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Each semester is further divided into two terms. Students in the Day-1 CPT program register for 6 credits each semester, which includes one 3-credit hybrid course and one 3-credit online course.

The hybrid course lasts for 16 weeks (2 terms) and has an in-person session over one weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Students who fail to attend will lose their F1 student status.

Tuition

Tuition Fee

Programs	Cost/Credit	Credits	Total Cost (CPT excl)
Master's - Artificial Intelligence - Data Analytics [STEM]	$575	30	$17,250 (16-20 months)
Master's - Data Analytics [STEM]; Computer Information Systems - Artificial Intelligence [STEM] ; Information Technology and Project Management [STEM]	$499	30	$14,970 (16-20 months)

Other Fees:
- Course UNV-501 Tuition (*UNV-501 is a required course each term for all Master's level F1 students): $400/Term
- Technology Fee: $85/Course
- Educational Resource Fee: $25/Course
- Enrollment Fee: $500
- Books: Depends on the courses

Payment Plan
- Students are eligible to enroll in a payment plan, which allows them to make monthly payments toward their bills.

Academic Calendar

Terms	Semester Start Date	Program Start Date	Application Deadline	CPT Start Date
Winter 2025 A Start	1/1/2025	1/6/2025	12/9/2024	1/6/2025
Winter 2025 B Start		2/3/2025	1/10/2025	2/3/2025
Winter 2025 C Start		3/2/2025	2/7/2025	2/3/2025
Summer 2025 A Start	5/5/2025	5/5/2025	4/2/2025	5/5/2025
Summer 2025 B Start		6/2/2025	5/2/2025	5/5/2025
Summer 2025 C Start		6/30/2025	5/30/2025	5/5/2025
Fall 2025 A Start	8/25/2025	8/25/2025	8/25/2025	8/25/2025
Fall 2025 B Start		9/22/2025	8/22/2025	9/22/2025
Fall 2025 C Start		10/20/2025	9/20/2025	10/20/2025

Initial F1 Students: 3 months before the first day of the term.
If you missed the deadline, please get in touch with us. We are the official recruitment partner of Indiana Wesleyan University and can help you accelerate your application.

Hybrid Professional CPT Programs at IWU

MS Artificial Intelligence - Data Analytics [STEM]

As the knowledge economy becomes increasingly digitized, data analysts are essential for boosting productivity and value. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum to teach students how to use data for quick, accurate decision-making, leveraging big data, analytics, and AI to turn unstructured data into insights. Graduates will be equipped to lead in dynamic markets by predicting trends and maximizing value. With AI rapidly growing, this program helps graduates adapt to technological changes. The IWU Data Analytics Master’s program combines a strong analytic foundation with practical business applications, emphasizing data ethics and decision-making from a Biblical perspective.

To graduate, students need to complete 10 core courses (30 credits).

Core Courses: TBD

MS Data Analytics [STEM]

Our Master of Science in Data Analytics program prepares students for leadership in data-driven business transformation. The curriculum focuses on using data to make precise decisions, leveraging big data and analytics to generate insights, and guiding organizations through market changes. The program emphasizes practical skills, data ethics, and responsible decision-making, supported by experienced faculty and student services.

To graduate, students need to complete 10 core courses (30 credits).

Core Courses: TBD

MS Computer Information Systems - Artificial Intelligence [STEM]

Transform your business with our MS in Computer Information Systems, specializing in AI. This program equips graduates to leverage AI, offering technical depth for those with a background in computer science. It includes practical labs and real-world insights from experienced faculty. Students will learn programming, machine learning, and AI model development, preparing them to apply AI solutions in the workplace.

To graduate, students need to complete 10 core courses (30 credits).

Core Courses: TBD

MS Information Technology & Project Management [STEM]

The information technology industry, offering authentic assignments designed by experienced IT professionals. Resources are available to help you excel, from tech support to tutoring, along with faith-based guidance to help you grow academically and personally. Our Christian faculty teach from the same biblical worldview valued on our campus, so that students can implement these principles in a fulfilling career. IWU’s student-centric master’s in IT leadership is offered 100% online and can be completed in as little as 18 months. You’ll also benefit from our tuition guarantee, letting you lock in your tuition cost at the beginning of your program.

To graduate, students need to complete 10 core courses (30 credits).

Core Courses: TBD

Application to IWU

1. Start the Application: Fill out the form below.

There is a $100 application fee. Please contact us to ask for a waiver before submitting your application.

2. Upload personal application information, including:

I-20
Passport
Visa
Resume
Official Transcript (minimum GPA 2.5)
English Proficiency Scores (Waivable if the student has completed 12 credits or more of coursework in English or is Changing Status from any non-tourist visa)
Bank statement from the last three months showing a balance deposit of $20,000 or more (equivalent amounts in other currencies are acceptable). The College also accepts two months’ worth of paystubs as proof of financial ability.

The processing of an application typically takes 2-3 weeks; contact us in urgent cases for expedited processing, which can reduce the processing time to 1-3 days.

After Enrollment - CPT Application

Students can submit their CPT application at any time after receiving their admission. Application materials include:

Paid admission deposit (non-refundable).
The student has completed registration.
The student's SEVIS record has been released to Curry College.
Certificate of Finance

FAQ - CPT at IWU

The tuition is $14,970, and it takes only 20 months to finish the course.

1 per semester

Yes, IWU is accredited by Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

3 per semester, 9 per year.

No, the shortest is 15 months, but you can discuss it with your source advisor.

IWu's main campus is located in Marion, IN, but it's Day 1 CPT courses take place at Merriville, IN.

Yes, and please don't forget to prepare enough docs when coming back to the US.

4, and the concentrations are:

Data Analytics [STEM]
Healthcare Management
Healthcare Informatics [STEM]
Information Technology [STEM]

🚨Disclaimer: The term "Day 1 CPT Universities" commonly refers to universities that allow students to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) at the start of their first semester. However, getting CPT approval on the first day of the program is not automatic or guaranteed and depends on submitting a complete application on time. In most cases, CPT approval takes 5 to 15 business days after the university receives the required documents.