Westcliff University

📍 Locations: California, Florida, Texas

🔖 Day 1 CPT Programs: BS Business Administration; BS Computer Science; BS Information Technology; TESOL; MBA; MS Artificial Intelligence; MS Computer Science; MS Engineering Management; MS Information Technology; DBA; EdD

🎖 Accreditation: WASCi

🎱 Type: Private For-Profit

💰 Program Tuition: from $30,780

⏱️ Program Duration: 32 months

🚖 On-Site Visit: Once Per Term

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University Overview

Westcliff University, a renowned university on the West Coast, has been setting educational standards since its initial approval from the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education in 1993. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Westcliff offers a comprehensive educational experience through its College of Business, College of Education, College of Technology & Engineering, and Western State College of Law.

What sets Westcliff apart in the competitive landscape of all the universities is its focus on both theoretical and practical elements. Unlike some universities that only offer theoretical knowledge, Westcliff's programs are meticulously designed to prepare students for real-world challenges, making them job-market-ready from day one. Convenience, flexibility, and affordability are the cornerstones of all programs at Westcliff University.

Whether you're an international student looking for eligible CPT programs or a domestic student aiming for academic excellence, Westcliff provides innovative, up-to-date, and high-quality education that promotes personal, professional, and academic success.

Westcliff University's Accreditation

Westcliff University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Its programs across the Colleges of Business, Education, Technology, and Engineering—including all degrees and certificates—are accredited, reflecting high academic standards upheld through ongoing, rigorous review. This accreditation signals that Westcliff meets recognized quality benchmarks, including qualified faculty, approved curricula, and strong institutional operations aligned with standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Locations

The university offers a strong national footprint with locations in several major U.S. markets. In California, it has sites in Irvine, Santa Monica, San Francisco, and Corona, providing access to key business and tech hubs along the West Coast.

It also serves students in the Southeast through campuses in Miami and Orlando, Florida, and expands its reach in the South with a location in Dallas, Texas—making it convenient for students who prefer an in-person or hybrid learning option in different regions.

Irvine: 17877 Von Karman Ave, Suite 400, Irvine, CA 92614
Miami: 825 Brickell Bay Dr, 18th Floor, Miami, FL 33131
Orlando: 715 Bloom St, Suite 200, Orlando, FL 34747
Santa Monica: 401 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 200 Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dallas: 3303 Lee Parkway, 5th Floor, Dallas, TX, 75219
San Francisco: 433 California Street, Suite 210, San Francisco, CA 94104
Corona: 4140 Temescal Canyon Rd, Corona, CA 92883

CPT Policies at Westcliff University

Westcliff University 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.

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

The school allows students to obtain CPT work authorization in the first month of enrollment and will send out a CPT renewal notification at the end of each semester. CPT renew per semester.

The school typically notifies everyone to apply for CPT two weeks before school starts. Applying earlier will help avoid the possibility that CPT could not be obtained on the first day of school. Westcliff has a hard deadline on the CPT application, if you missed it, you will have to wait until the next semester to start your CPT.

CPT Details

CPT authorization needs to be renewed every term.

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

Onsite sessions are held once per semester, scheduled for Friday from 2pm to 9pm, Saturday from 8am to 8:30pm, and Sunday morning from 8am to 12:30pm.

Tuition

Tuition Fee

$30,780 - $92,040

Program	Tuition Per Credit	Annual Tuition	Total Tuition
Bachelor's	$767	$23,010	$92,040
Master's	$855	$15,390	$30,780
Doctoral	$907	$18,140	$54,420

Other Fees

Application Fee: $50 (Contact Us to waive)
One Time Fees: $210 (Enrollment Fee, Student ID Card)
Recurrent Fees (Per Term): $175 (Registration Fee, Technology Fee)

Payment Plan

✅ Available

Westcliff University offers semester-based tuition payment options. Tuition is due 30 days before the start of each semester. Students may choose a two- or three-installment deferred payment plan, each with a $50 administrative fee per semester. Both plans require a 40% down payment and enrollment in PayPal Auto-Debit. The remaining balance is divided into equal payments, with due dates arranged through a Student Accounts Representative.

Academic Calendar

Terms	Application Deadline	Semester Start Date	CPT Start Date
Fall I 2025	09/01/2025	09/01/2025	09/01/2025
Fall II 2025	10/27/2025	10/27/2025	10/27/2025
Spring II 2026	03/02/2026	03/02/2026	03/02/2026
Summer I 2026	05/04/2026	05/04/2026	05/04/2026
Summer II 2026	06/29/2026	06/29/2026	06/29/2026

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

Day 1 CPT Programs at Westcliff University

Bachelor of Business Administration

Westcliff University’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)—available online and in a hybrid format—provides a strong foundation in essential business areas such as finance, accounting, marketing, operations, sales, and information technology. Courses are taught by experienced industry professionals and focus on developing job-ready skills, including critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and professional communication.

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry-level roles across business functions, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, human resources, computer systems, risk management, and facilities management.

Concentrations

AR/VR Mobile Game Development
Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity
Digital Marketing
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Human Resources
Information Technology
Information Technology Project Management (ITPM)
Sports Management
Web Development

BS Computer Science (STEM)

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program offered by Westcliff University is an interdisciplinary program from a holistic perspective, with an emphasis on the disciplines within the field of Computer Science. The program is designed to provide pathways for students who want to pursue careers centered around building computer software solutions through programming and algorithmic techniques. The students pursuing this program gain the necessary skills to solve challenges in the 21st century globalized economy. Students explore a broad range of theoretical and practical knowledge, methods, processes, and skills – to effectively design and develop computer-based solutions to satisfy domain-specific requirements. Successful students graduate with the technical acumen and practical exposure needed to innovatively solve real-world problems and remain competitive in the workplace.

Concentrations

Artificial Intelligence
Advanced Programming
Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development
Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
Information Technology Project Management (ITPM)
Web Development

BS Information Technology (STEM)

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program offered by Westcliff University is an interdisciplinary program from a holistic perspective, with an emphasis on Information Technology. The program is designed to provide pathways for students who want to pursue careers in the growing field of Information Technology. The program focuses on addressing business challenges in the 21st century globalized economy by solving complex business problems and creating new opportunities with technology. The students pursuing this program will gain the necessary skills to solve challenges through data analysis and the use of Information Technologies. The objective of Westcliff University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is to provide graduates with the technical acumen needed to solve business problems and innovate in order to remain competitive.

Concentrations

Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development
Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity
Data Analytics
IT Project Management (ITPM)
Web Development

Doctor of Business Administration (STEM)

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is built for experienced professionals who want to deepen their understanding of global business and strengthen their impact as leaders. This 60-credit-hour doctoral program focuses on advanced decision-making, executive leadership, and applied research, helping students connect business theory to real-world strategy.

Throughout the program, doctoral candidates explore the challenges shaping today’s organizations, including globalization, corporate social responsibility, and change management. Designed with working adults in mind, the DBA is available in a flexible synchronous hybrid format, making it easier to pursue a doctorate while continuing your career.

Core Course

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 1 (21 credit hours total):

DOC 700 Doctoral Common Foundation
LDR 700 Leadership and Creative Solutions Implementation
MGT 700 Corporate Strategy
FIN 700 Research in Entrepreneurial Finance
MKT 700 Marketing Strategy & Consumer Behavior
DOC 705 Quantitative Research Methods
DOC 710 Qualitative Research Methods

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 2 (21 credit hours total):

Concentration Course I
Concentration Course II
ECO 700 Business in a Global Economy
ORG 700 Doctoral Seminar in Sustainable Organizations
DOC 715 Prospectus
DOC 720 Literature Review

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 3 (18 credit hours total):

Concentration Course III
Concentration Course IV
DIS 900 Doctoral Dissertation Course I
DIS 901 Doctoral Dissertation Course II
DIS 902 Doctoral Dissertation Course III
DIS 903 Doctoral Dissertation Course IV

Concentrations

Applied Computer Science
Business Intelligence & Data Analytics
Cybersecurity
Information Technology Management
Web Development & Applications Management
Strategic Leadership for the 21st Century

Doctor of Education (EdD)

The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction prepares scholar-practitioners to lead meaningful change in education by strengthening skills in educational leadership, curriculum design and evaluation, and effective instructional strategies. The program blends educational foundations with leadership theory to support research, evidence-based assessment, and best practices in andragogy and pedagogy. With an emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusive policies, students develop the knowledge and practical experience needed to improve learning outcomes and drive organizational impact.

Students learn through project-based coursework and embedded practicum experiences that address real-world challenges, with ongoing oversight and feedback in authentic professional settings. The EdD requires 60 total credit hours, including 21 credits of Core courses (18 lecture, 3 practicum), 15 credits of Research courses, 12 credits of Concentration courses (choose Leadership or Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment; 10 lecture, 2 practicum), and 16 credits of Dissertation/Capstone courses. Students must apply for graduation and, upon completing all academic requirements—including passing the Dissertation Oral Defense—earn the Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction.

Core Course

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 1 (21 credit hours total):

DOC 700 Doctoral Foundations
DU 710 The Role of Learning
EDU 711 Educational Leadership in Theory and Practice
EDU 714 Optimize Outcomes with AI and Technology Integration
EDU 716 Managing Human and Fiscal Resources as an Educational Leader
EDU 720 Times of Change: Human Potential and Motivation

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 2 (21 credit hours total):

EDU 725 Design Thinking: Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
Concentration Course I
Concentration Course II
Concentration Course III
Concentration Course IV
DOC 705 Quantitative Research Methods

Students must complete the following required courses by the end of Year 3 (18 credit hours total):

DOC 710 Qualitative Research Methods 3 credit hours
DOC 712 Conducting Applied Research for Real-World Practice or
DOC 706 Advanced Quantitative Research Methods or
DOC 711 Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
DOC 715 Developing the Dissertation Prospectus 3 credit hours
DOC 720 Literature Review 3 credit hours

Dissertation/Capstone (12 credit hours):

Students must complete the following required courses by the first semester of Year 4:

DOC 901 Dissertation Course I/DRP 901 Capstone Course I 3 credit hours
DOC 902 Dissertation Course II/DRP 902 Capstone Course II 3 credit hours
DOC 903 Dissertation Course III/DRP 903 Capstone Course III 3 credit hours
DOC 904 Dissertation Course IV/DRP 904 Capstone Course IV 3 credit hours

MA TESOL

The Master's in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program aims to train teachers for a variety of roles, both in the United States and abroad. With substantial training in diverse teaching methods, students will gain specialized knowledge and practical skills for teaching English to non-native speakers, preparing them to become proficient and professional educators with notable leadership qualities. To graduate, students need to complete 12 core courses (36 credits).

Program Core Courses - 36 Credits

TSL 502 Vocabulary Instruction
TSL 507 Pronunciation Instruction
TSL 512 Writing Instruction
TSL 515 Second Language Acquisition
TSL 520 Grammar Instruction
TSL 527 Methods of Teaching ESL/EFL
TSL 532 Listening and Speaking Instruction
TSL 542 The English Language in Society
TSL 545 Reading Instruction
TSL 552 Special Topics in TESOL
TSL 590 Curriculum Design
TSL 600 Practicum

Master of Business Administration (STEM)

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program aims to provide individuals with the essential skills and knowledge for thriving in management roles. In the initial year, students concentrate on foundational MBA coursework. As the year progresses, they can select a concentration aligning with their interests and career aspirations. The second year involves an in-depth exploration of this chosen concentration through three specialized elective courses pertinent to their field of interest. To graduate, students need to complete 8 core courses (24 credits) and 4 concentration courses (12 credits).

Core Courses

ECO 500 Managerial Economics (3 credits)
FIN 500 Financial & Accounting Skills for Managers (3 credits)
LDR 500 Organizational Leadership (3 credits)
MGT 500 Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy (3 credits)
MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)
MKT 500 Marketing Management (3 credits)
ORG 500 Organizational Behavior (3 credits)

Concentration Requirements

Choose 4 courses from one of the ten concentrations:

General
Strategic and Innovative Leadership
Financial Management
Global Business
Organizational Management
Entrepreneurship
Healthcare Administration
Hospitality and Tourism Management
Applied AI in Business (STEM)
Business Analytics (STEM)
Cybersecurity (STEM)
Digital Marketing (STEM)
Information Technology Management (STEM)
IT Project Management (STEM)
Web Development & Design (STEM)

Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (STEM)

The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) is designed to give students a comprehensive foundation in artificial intelligence and prepare them to become leaders who can build and deploy intelligent systems that enhance human capabilities. Through a rigorous core curriculum, students develop mastery of the theories and tools that drive modern AI, including machine learning, deep learning, robotics, fuzzy-based methods, and data science, along with how to apply these techniques across a range of industries and use cases. The program also includes a project component, allowing students to apply course concepts to a practical, real-world problem.

To graduate, students must complete 36 credit hours and maintain a program GPA (PGPA) of 3.0 or higher. The standard program length is two years, though completion time may vary by individual circumstances. Students must apply for graduation, and upon meeting all academic requirements, they will receive the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree.

Core Courses - 12 Credit Hours

AIT 500 Concepts of Artificial Intelligence
AIT 505 Advanced Mathematical Methods for AI
AIT 506 Machine Learning
AIT 515 Introduction to Data Science

Capstone Course (3 Credit Hours)

CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone

Focus Courses (21 Credit Hours)

AIT 508 Advanced AI Programming and Frameworks
AIT 556 Advanced Machine Learning Techniques
AIT 509 Natural Language Processing
MIS 550 Big Data Analytics
AIT 520 Artificial Intelligence and Ethics
AIT 517 Affective Computing
AIT 510 Deep Learning and Neural Networks

MS Computer Science (STEM)

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program is designed to advance the careers of professionals in the technology sector. It offers a up-to-date curriculum that encourages students to employ design principles, critical and algorithmic thinking, as well as innovation, management, and problem-solving skills in computer science. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)
MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management (3 credits)
MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology (3 credits)
MIS 540 Management of Information Security (3 credits)
MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation (3 credits)
MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization (3 credits)

Capstone Courses (3 credits):

CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone (3 Credits)

Concentrations (15 credits):

Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR)
Data Analytics (DATA)
Health Informatics (HIT)
Software Development (DEV)
Mobile Game Development

MS Engineering Management (STEM)

The Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program highlights the combination of engineering skills and management knowledge, essential for strategic planning and maintaining a competitive edge. By equipping students with essential skills and knowledge in engineering and management, it enables them to drive innovation, streamline processes, and manage resources effectively, thereby fostering organizational success in the rapidly evolving business world. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology
MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management
MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology
MIS 540 Management of Information Security
MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation
MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization

Others

In order to graduate with a concentration, students must take five (5) courses, totaling 9 credit hours in the area of their chosen concentration, Technology Engineering Management (TEM):

TEM 600 Introduction to Systems Engineering 3 Credit Hours
TEM 610 Information Systems Engineering 3 Credit Hours
TEM 620 Engineering Administration 3 Credit Hours
TEM 630 Strategic Technology Management 3 Credit Hours
TEM 640 Reliability Engineering 3 Credit Hours

MS Information Technology (STEM)

The Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program offers a blend of technical skills and management knowledge, crucial for effectively implementing and managing IT security strategies to protect technological assets, infrastructure, and data analytics. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)
MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management (3 credits)
MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology (3 credits)
MIS 540 Management of Information Security (3 credits)
MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation (3 credits)
MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization (3 credits)

Capstone Courses (3 credits):

CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone (3 Credits)

Concentrations (15 credits):

Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity
Emerging Technologies (EMT)
Information Technology (ITM)
IT Project Management (ITPM)
Operations Management (OPM)

Application to Westcliff University

Before Enrollment

Step 1. Book a free consultation with us

Step 2. Prepare the following documents for your application:

Transcript - Highest Transcript
Resume
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 Westcliff University.

FAQ - CPT at Westcliff University

Westcliff has 7 programs that offer CPT from day 1, including 5 master's level and 2 doctoral level programs:

Master's

MBA [STEM Options]
MSIT [STEM]
MSCS [STEM]
MSEM [STEM]
TESOL

Doctoral Programs

DBA [STEM]
EdD

Master’s programs cost $35,910 per program, while doctoral programs typically range from $62,583 to $64,563.

Yes. Students with a cumulated GAP of 3.5 and above usually will get a scholarship at Westcliff University.

If you’d like to learn more about the scholarship, simply contact us for details.

Scholarships

Distinguished Scholarships — up to $10,000 Awarded to a select number of students who demonstrate an aptitude for excellence, a grand vision for the future, and a keen sense of social responsibility to leave the world a better place when they are gone.
Scholarships for Outstanding Achievement Recognition (SOAR) — up to $5,000 Established for high-performing students who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in pursuit of a master’s/doctorate degree at Westcliff.
Building Leaders for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity (BLEND) Scholarships — up to $2,500 Established for accomplished international students who are pursuing a degree at Westcliff in order to create a more inclusive world in their field of study.
Warrior Scholarships — $2,500 Established to support students in overcoming financial barriers to pursuing academic success at Westcliff.

Depending on the urgency of the case, you might be able to get an offer within 1 business day if you are facing a status maintenance problem.
The usual processing time is 7 - 14 working days.
On average, our students if not in a harry, can get their offer within 1 week.

Certainly, leaving the program is a straightforward process. For students who find it challenging to juggle their professional obligations with their studies upon being selected for H1B status and transitioning to full-time employment, opting out of the program becomes a viable option.

Depending on the specific program, options vary. Some programs offer a certificate of completion for the coursework undertaken, while others provide the flexibility to retain credits for a potential return to complete the program at a later date.

Moreover, Westcliff University takes a step further in supporting H1B visa holders by offering the exclusive "H1B Scholarship." This initiative is tailored specifically for those chosen for H1B, aiming to motivate students to persevere and complete their studies. This not only benefits them academically but also serves as a valuable asset when pursuing green card applications in the future.

Currently, the policy requires students to take on-site classes once per semester (professional format). It is usually during a weekend:

Friday 2 PM -9:00 PM
Saturday 8 AM -8:30 PM
Sunday 8 AM-12:30 PM

At Westcliff University, each semester is constructed by 2 terms. For term one, you are required to take 24 hours of on-site class (conducted during 1 weekend). For term 2, all classes are online, and each session takes about 3 hours.

You don't need to have a job offer to apply to the school. But if you wish to have CPT authorization, a valid job offer is required.

Westcliff University is currently only accepting F1 transfer students with a residency from the following states:

Arizona
California
Colorado
Floridas
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Louisiana
Maine
Massachusetts
Mississippi
Missouri
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New York
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Washington

What if you don't live in these states but wish to go to Westcliff University?

You can use your relative's or friend's addresses that are in those states. You don't need a driver's license to prove your residency, as long as you can provide documents that prove you live there, they can process your application. For details, ask our consultants.

Westcliff University currently does now have housing options for hybrid-format students. But if you need, these two hotels are within walking distance of Westcliff University:

Embassy Suites by Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport
Hyatt House Irvine/John Wayne Airport

If you want to lower your costs, consider finding a roommate by joining Day1cpt.org's Westcliff WhatsApp Group. You can also connect with classmates for carpooling or sharing hotel rooms to save money!

This scholarship is exclusively allocated for tuition fees. Should there be any funds left over, these will not be distributed in the form of cash. Instead, any excess amount will be reserved exclusively for covering tuition expenses for upcoming terms within the same program.

Students may apply for multiple non-athletic scholarships, but if a student is qualified for multiple scholarships, only the scholarship of greatest value will be applied.

The scholarship amount awarded is per academic year and is divided over three semesters.

Yes. Students may reapply each semester however, they should carefully evaluate eligibility requirements, including GPA.

This scholarship will persist throughout each student’s academic journey, provided they maintain the necessary GPA and uphold the standards of conduct expected of them.

However, should a student's GPA dip below the required threshold or if they deviate from the conduct guidelines outlined in the Student Handbook, the scholarship will be revoked.

🚨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.

✓ One-on-One Free Consultation

✓ Personalized Hybrid Professional Master's Programs List

✓ Application Fee Waiver & Application Assistant

✓ Scholarship Opportunities

✓ Connecting to the Admission Officer to Get Pre-Approval

✓ Premium Process - Get an Offer and I-20 within 3 days [added-value service]

*Our consultants are committed to providing a seamless experience. Once you initiate a case with us, you will be assigned a specific consultant who will thoroughly understand your case, ensuring that there's no need for you to repeat information each time you call. We will not change your consultant unless you request it.