Salem University

📍 Locations: Indiana

🔖 Day 1 CPT Programs: MS Information Technology; DBA

🎖 Accreditation: HLCi

🎱 Type: Private For-Profit

💰 Program Tuition: from $19,500

⏱️ Program Duration: 17 months

🚖 On-Site Visit: Once Per Term

Salem University Day 1 CPT

University Overview

Founded in 1888, Salem University is a regionally accredited private university located in Salem, West Virginia. With a strong academic legacy and a commitment to accessible, career-oriented education, Salem serves students from diverse backgrounds on its scenic 100-acre campus in the Appalachian Mountains. The university offers on-campus housing, engaging student activities, and an inclusive learning environment.

Salem University provides a wide variety of degree programs, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as post-master’s certificates across multiple in-demand fields. The curriculum is designed to develop practical skills, ethical leadership, and a mindset for lifelong learning and global citizenship.

Whether you’re pursuing a new career path or advancing your current one, Salem University offers flexible, affordable programs designed to help you succeed.

Salem University's Accreditation

The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and authorized by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Indiana Board for Proprietary Education. Many of Salem’s programs also hold specialized accreditations that align with industry standards and best practices, ensuring high-quality, workforce-ready education.

higher-learning-commission-logo

Locations

 

  • Salem Campus: 8500 Keystone Crossing Suite 310, Indianapolis, IN 46240

CPT Policies at Salem University

Salem University offers Day 1 CPT support through two graduate-level programs: the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) and the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Both programs are designed for working professionals seeking to gain practical skills while maintaining their F-1 student status.

Each academic quarter spans 3 months, allowing for structured yet flexible progress.

  • The MSIT program is a 30-credits that can be completed in 15 months, with a maximum program duration of up to 24 months after extension.
  • The DBA program requires 51 credits and is typically completed in 18 months, also extendable to 24 months total.

Acceleration options may be available for eligible students based on individual academic performance and course availability.

Summer Break :

  • At Salem University, students may take a break anytime between May and September, effectively enjoying a full summer vacation without needing to complete a set number of terms first.
  • During this period, no courses or assignments are required, and eligible students may continue using CPT for full-time work.

Salem University adheres to USCIS regulations to authorize CPT for international students.


Eligibility for CPT from Program Start

✅ Current OPT and F1 students may obtain CPT Authorization from Day 1 of the program.

❌ Oversea applicants cannot obtain CPT Authorization from Day 1 of the program.

✅ Change of Status (to F1 Status) applicants may obtain CPT Authorization from Day 1 of the program.

“Day 1 CPT Universities” refers to schools that may allow CPT from the first semester, but approval isn’t guaranteed. CPT typically takes 5–15 business days after complete documents are submitted.


CPT Details

CPT authorization needs to be renewed every term.

CPT is not for graduation.

Salem University requires international student attend onsite residency class once per term.

Students are required to attend on-campus sessions once every two months, typically held on Saturdays for a full day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tuition

Tuition Fee

$19,500 - $31,900

Program

Tuition Per Credit

Annual Tuition

Total Tuition

Master's

$650

$15,600

$19,500

Doctoral

$625

$21,250

$31,875


Other Fees

Payment Plan

✅ Available

A payment plan option is available, but students are encouraged to make tuition payments on a per-semester basis.

Academic Calendar

Terms Application Deadline Semester Start Date CPT Start Date
Spring 202612/29/2025
01/05/202610/01/2024
Summer 202604/27/2026
05/04/202610/01/2024
Fall 202608/24/2026
08/31/202610/01/2024

  • 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 Salem University; we can help you accelerate your application.

Day 1 CPT Programs at Salem University

Master of Science in Information Technology

Salem University’s Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program is designed for professionals seeking to lead in today’s fast-evolving, data-driven business landscape. With concentrations in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, the program blends advanced technical training with strategic business insight to prepare students for high-impact roles in technology and leadership.

The MSIT program requires 30 credits and can be completed in as little as 15 months, offering a fast, flexible pathway for working professionals aiming to advance their careers without pausing them.

Through a practical, career-focused curriculum, students learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data to drive innovation and business performance. The program also develops essential skills in problem-solving, data visualization, and leadership, ensuring graduates are well-positioned for in-demand roles across IT, analytics, and business strategy.


Concentrations

  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Analytics
Doctor of Business Administration (On Hold)

Salem University’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed for experienced professionals aiming to advance their careers in executive leadership, strategic management, and organizational transformation. This flexible, career-focused doctoral program delivers a rigorous academic foundation combined with real-world application, ideal for working professionals.

This 50-credit doctoral program can be completed in as little as 18 months, with options to extend to 24 months based on individual needs. Students gain advanced competencies in strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and evidence-based research, culminating in a doctoral dissertation that demonstrates their ability to solve real-world business problems.

Sample Course Structure by Semester

Semester One
  • The Craft of Dissertation Research & Writing
  • Current Issues in Leadership
  • Management as a Behavioral Science
  • Program and Project Evaluation
  • Introduction to Dissertation Research
Semester Two
  • Ethics
  • Organizational Development & Change Management
  • Research Methods
  • Analytical Case Study Methods
  • Dissertation Proposal
Semester Three
  • Economic and Financial Theory
  • Strategy and Business Policy
  • Leadership in Global and Multicultural Organizations
  • Legal & Regulatory Environment of Business
  • Dissertation Research I
  • Comprehensive Examination

Application to Salem University

Before Enrollment

Step 1. Book a free consultation with us

Step 2. Prepare the following documents for your application:

  • Transcript - All Transcripts
  • Passport
  • Financial Proof

Having trouble with the application? Contact us.

After Enrollment - CPT Application

After receiving the acceptance letter, confirm with your advisor the SEVIS transfer time and fill out the SEVIS transfer form to transfer SEVIS from your original school to Salem University.

FAQ - CPT at Salem University

Is Salem University a legitimate and safe Day 1 CPT school?

Yes, Salem University is a regionally accredited institution by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It offers compliant Day 1 CPT programs for eligible F-1 students. Salem requires one on-site visit per term, aligning with USCIS guidelines. CPT is only available to students with qualifying employment, ensuring the program is both safe and compliant for maintaining F-1 visa status.

Which Day 1 CPT programs does Salem University offer?
  • Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

The MSIT is ideal for students working in tech roles like software development, data analysis, or IT project management.

The DBA program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and business strategy skills.

How often are the on-site classes at Salem University for Day 1 CPT? Do I need to go every week?

No, you do not need to attend weekly. Salem University requires one on-site visit per academic term (quarter), which is every three months. 

What is the tuition and program length for the MSIT and DBA programs at Salem University?

 MSIT

  • Duration: 15–17 months (extendable to 24 months)
  • Tuition: $650 per credit, 30 credits total → $19,500 total
     

DBA

  • Duration: 18 months (extendable to 24 months)
  • Tuition: $625 per credit, 51 credits total → $31,875 total

Does Salem University accept F1 transfer students? Is the SEVIS transfer process complicated?

Yes, Salem University welcomes SEVIS transfers. The process is straightforward:

  1. Apply and receive an admission letter.
  2. Coordinate with your current school DSO to set a SEVIS release date.
  3. Fill out the SEVIS Transfer Form for Salem.

As an official recruitment partner of Salem University, we can help you with an accelerated transfer process — sometimes in as little as one week.

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🚨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.

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