Welcome to Indiana Wesleyan
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a private, non-profit Christian liberal arts institution based in Marion, Indiana. The university offers specialized hybrid Master of Science (MS) programs for international students at its designated education centers, notably in Merrillville, Indiana (near Chicago) and Forney, Texas (near Dallas). IWU is highly recognized for its affordable tuition, flexible on-site requirements, and robust Day 1 CPT authorization policy.
Location
- Merrillville, IN
- Private, Not-for-Profit
On-Site Frequency
- 1 weekend / Semester
Annual Tuition
- $8,982(Based on 18 credits/year)
Program Duration
- 16–20 months
Why Choose IWU for CPT?
IWU's hybrid programs are optimized for working professionals, offering several advantages for F-1 international students:
- Low Cost & Affordable Tuition: With a credit hour rate of $499, IWU is one of the most budget-friendly Day 1 CPT options available, significantly reducing the total cost of the Master's degree.
- Flexible Residency Requirement: Students are required to attend on-campus sessions only once per semester (typically a Friday/Saturday weekend), minimizing travel and allowing maximum professional focus.
- All Master's CPT Programs are STEM: IWU's popular MS programs are all STEM-designated, qualifying graduates for the 24-month OPT extension.
- Non-Profit Advantage: As a non-profit institution, IWU graduates may be eligible for the H-1B Master's Cap, slightly improving their odds in the annual H-1B lottery.
- Nine Annual Intakes: The university's trimester system divides each semester into three 8-week sessions (A, B, C), offering nine flexible enrollment windows per year.
- Seamless CPT Policy: IWU allows eligible F-1 transfer students to apply for CPT authorization starting on Day 1 of the program, with continuous, annual CPT renewal available throughout the degree.
Location
Programs
Master of Science (MS) - Data Analytics
The MS in Data Analytics at Indiana Wesleyan University is a STEM-designated program that prepares students to lead data-driven transformations in the modern knowledge economy. Students master the art of turning unstructured data into actionable insights through rigorous coursework in statistics, big data, and data visualization. The curriculum emphasizes the use of advanced analytics to forecast market trends and optimize organizational value while integrating a biblical framework for ethical decision-making. Graduates emerge equipped with the technical expertise and communication skills necessary to guide organizations through complex, fast-changing global markets.
Master of Science (MS) - Computer Information Systems - AI
This specialized program is designed for technology professionals who wish to broaden their expertise by integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence into traditional information systems. The curriculum covers foundational computer science topics such as object-oriented programming and cloud computing alongside advanced modules in machine learning and model development. Students gain practical experience in prompt engineering and the responsible application of generative AI through a dedicated integration capstone. By blending technical mastery with an ethical leadership framework, the program prepares graduates to initiate company-wide change in multicultural technology environments.
Master of Science (MS) - Artificial Intelligence - Data Analytics
The MS in Artificial Intelligence with a specialization in Data Analytics focuses on the synergy between automated intelligence and deep data mining. Students explore the potential of large language models and predictive algorithms to convert vast amounts of digitized information into strategic business solutions. The program prioritizes hands-on exercises in text mining and big data concepts, ensuring that graduates have a practical understanding of how AI drives productivity. Grounded in a Christ-centered perspective, the degree empowers scholar-practitioners to shape important organizational decisions with both emotional and artificial intelligence.
Master of Science (MS) - Information Technology Project Management
This program equips students to lead large-scale IT initiatives by balancing traditional sequential management with modern agile and iterative methodologies. The curriculum focuses on essential competencies such as project prioritization, risk mitigation, and the management of global information system infrastructures. Students develop strong leadership and communication strategies to organize diverse teams and navigate the ethical and legal challenges of the tech industry. Graduates are prepared for excellence as certified project managers, capable of streamlining operations and driving innovation at the executive level.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) - Management, Data Analytics, etc.
The IWU DBA program is a professional doctorate designed to elevate experienced leaders to the C-suite through applied research and strategic specialization in Management or Data Analytics. Students engage in a 36-month online journey that replaces a traditional dissertation with an applied doctoral project focused on solving real-world organizational challenges. The curriculum fosters advanced skills in economic analysis, change management, and global leadership, requiring only one immersive weekend residency per year. Graduates emerge as forward-thinking scholar-practitioners ready to influence the highest levels of business, consulting, or higher education.
Tuition Fees
The tuition for the international Master of Science (MS) programs at Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) in Merrillville, IN, which support the Day 1 CPT option, is structured as a low per-credit-hour rate, resulting in a very competitive total program cost.
Total Semester Estimate: $2,994
Total Annual Estimate: $8,982 (3 semesters per year)
Total Program Estimate: $14,970
- CPT Fee (Per Semester): $400
- Application Fee: $100
- STRF Fee: N/A
Other Mandatory Fees (Per Course/Term)
- Enrollment Fee: $500 (One-time, non-refundable).
- Technology Fee (Per Course): $85
- Educational Resource Fee (Per Course): $25
Academic Calendar
IWU follows a three-semester system (Fall, Winter, Summer), with three sessions (A, B, C) within each semester, resulting in nine possible start dates per year. CPT is authorized per term.
| Term Name | Program Start Date | CPT Start Date | On-Site Date/Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall A, B, C | Aug / Sep / Oct | Same as Program Start Date | 1 Weekend Residency/Semester |
| Winter A, B, C | Jan / Feb / Mar | Same as Program Start Date | 1 Weekend Residency/Semester |
| Summer A, B, C | May / Jun / Jul | Same as Program Start Date | 1 Weekend Residency/Semester |