University History

The University was incorporated in the State of California in 1978 to focus on providing distance learning opportunities to adult learners. In 1982, the University changed its name to Southern California University for Professional Studies (SCUPS) to highlight its commitment to professional/applied educational opportunities. In 2007, the University changed its name to California Southern University to receive national accreditation from the former Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), now the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). In 2015, the University received institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). In July 2022, CalSouthern became part of the American InterContinental University System, which is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and located in Arizona. The AIU System is owned by American InterContinental University System, Inc., which is wholly owned by Perdoceo Education Corporation.