Westcliff University
Welcome to Westcliff
Located in Irvine, California, Westcliff University (WU) is a private institution that has become a premier choice for working international students seeking Day 1 CPT authorization. The university offers flexible, hybrid graduate programs tailored for professionals, allowing students to maintain full-time employment while pursuing their degree. The most popular Day 1 CPT programs include the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS).
Location
- Irvine, CA
- Private For-Profit
On-Site Frequency
- 1 weekend / Semester
Annual Tuition
- $15,390 (Based on 3 semesters/year + CPT fee)
Program Duration
- 24-28 months
Why Choose Westcliff University for CPT?
Westcliff University is uniquely structured to support the needs of working professionals on F-1 visas.
- Day 1 CPT Eligibility: Westcliff permits eligible students to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) starting from the first day of their program (Day 1), provided all documentation is completed.
- Flexible Hybrid Learning: The Professional Format requires only one mandatory on-site weekend per semester at the Irvine campus, making it highly accessible for students working across the United States.
- Regional Accreditation: WU holds Regional Accreditation from WSCUC, ensuring high-quality academic standards and greater credibility compared to schools with only national accreditation.
- STEM-Designated Programs: The university offers multiple STEM-designated graduate degrees, such as the MSCS and MSIT, which qualify graduates for the 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension.
- Six Annual Intakes: WU utilizes a session-based calendar with six start dates per year (typically January, March, May, July, September, and November), providing maximum flexibility for applicants.
- Extensive Program Variety: In addition to business and IT, Westcliff offers Day 1 CPT options in Education, Engineering Management, and Doctoral fields.
- Supportive International Services: The International Student Services office is structured to assist students with navigating complex CPT application and renewal processes every semester.
Location
Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The Westcliff MBA program prepares students for high-level management and leadership roles by blending core business principles with innovative strategic concepts. Students gain practical experience through the SMART™ Capstone, where they consult for real-world companies to solve complex organizational challenges. With concentrations ranging from Entrepreneurship to Applied AI, the curriculum is designed to adapt to the fast-paced demands of the global market. Graduates emerge with the critical thinking and decision-making skills necessary to lead effectively across diverse industries.
Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)
The MSCS program is a STEM-infused degree that empowers technologists to advance their expertise in software design, algorithmic thinking, and computer systems. The curriculum challenges students to solve technical problems using modern tools in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and mobile game development. By focusing on both the theoretical foundations and the practical implementation of computer science, the program prepares graduates for specialized roles in tech-heavy sectors. It is an ideal pathway for those looking to become digital architects and innovators in the 21st-century economy.
Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
Westcliff’s MSIT degree provides a holistic perspective on the technology driving modern business, focusing on the management and security of digital infrastructure. Students learn to protect technology assets and analyze business intelligence through coursework in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and IT governance. The program bridges the gap between technical skill and management strategy, ensuring graduates can lead complex IT projects and departments. It is designed for IT professionals who wish to enhance their technical acumen while mastering the leadership skills required for executive roles.
Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM)
The MSEM program is strategically designed for professionals who wish to bridge the gap between technical engineering tasks and organizational leadership. It emphasizes the synergism between engineering processes and strategic planning, helping students manage both complex projects and diverse technical teams. Through concentrations like Technology Engineering Management, students explore operations, product design, and the integration of emerging technologies into the business value chain. This degree prepares engineers to transition into management roles where they can sustain a competitive advantage for their organizations.
Master of Arts in TESOL (MA TESOL)
The MA TESOL program equips educators with the advanced pedagogical theory and classroom skills needed to teach English to speakers of other languages worldwide. Students delve into second language acquisition, curriculum design, and the latest educational technologies to create inclusive and effective learning environments. The program offers a flexible pathway, allowing students to choose between a practical teaching practicum or a research-focused thesis to suit their career goals. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles as expert teachers, program administrators, and creative researchers in both domestic and international settings.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
The DBA is a professional doctorate designed for experienced executives who want to master the principles of global business through applied research and strategic leadership. The program focuses on advanced decision-making, allowing doctoral students to solve complex business problems using data-driven methodologies and Business Intelligence tools. Students choose from specialized STEM concentrations to tailor their research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes original insights to the professional field. It is the ultimate credential for leaders aiming to influence the highest levels of corporate strategy and practice.
Doctor of Education (EdD)
The EdD program in Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction empowers scholar-practitioners to become transformational leaders in the field of education. By integrating leadership theories with evidence-based assessment, the curriculum prepares students to design innovative instructional methodologies and manage educational institutions. The degree emphasizes solving real-world challenges through project-based learning and primary research, fostering a culture of diversity and equitable practices. Graduates leave the program as change agents ready to positively impact the future of education at every organizational level.
Tuition Fees
Tuition for master programs at Westcliff University is fixed per semester.
Total Semester Estimate: $4,506
Total Annual Estimate: $13,518 (3 semesters)
Total Program Estimate: $27,036 (6 semesters)
CPT Fee (Per Semester): $0 for the first two CPT semesters, then $500/semester (for INT599 course)
Semester tuition is due in full one week before the start of each semester.
- Application Fee: $75
- STRF Fee: $60
- Textbook Cost: $0
Academic Calendar
Westcliff University operates on a system with multiple intakes, enabling CPT authorization to be processed frequently throughout the year. CPT is often authorized to start on the first day of the academic session
| Term Name | Semester Start Date | Application Deadline (F-1 Transfer) | CPT Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 1 2025 | 9/1/2025 | 9/1/2025 | 9/1/2025 |
| Fall 2 2025 | 10/27/2025 | 10/27/2025 | 10/27/2025 |
| Spring 1 2026 | 1/5/2026 | 1/5/2026 | 1/5/2026 |
| Spring 2 2026 | 3/2/2026 | 3/2/2026 | 3/2/2026 |
| Summer 1 2026 | 5/4/2026 | 5/4/2026 | 5/4/2026 |
| Summer 2 2026 | 6/29/2026 | 6/29/2026 | 6/29/2026 |