California Institute of Integral Studies - San Francisco, California

The California Institute of Integral Studies: A Premier Educational Institution

For individuals seeking a transformative educational experience focused on holistic thinking and personal growth, the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) stands out as a distinguished institution. Located in the heart of San Francisco, at 1453 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States, CIIS offers a unique approach to learning, integrating diverse disciplines to foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. With a dedicated phone line at 4155756100 and a comprehensive website at ciis.edu, prospective students can readily access detailed information and explore the institute’s offerings.

Specialties and Academic Programs

CIIS specializes as a University and College, providing a wide array of graduate and undergraduate programs. The institute’s core philosophy centers on Integral Theory, developed by Ken Wilber, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of human experience – mind, body, spirit, and culture. This framework informs the curriculum across various departments, including:

• Integral Psychology: Explores the integration of psychological theories with Wilber’s Integral Model, focusing on personal transformation and systemic change.
• Integral Leadership: Prepares individuals to be ethical and effective leaders in a complex and interconnected world.
• Conflict Transformation: Offers a holistic approach to resolving conflicts, considering diverse perspectives and promoting sustainable peace.
• Mind-Body Medicine: Integrates Eastern and Western healing modalities to address the whole person.
• Spirituality & Consciousness Studies: Examines the nature of consciousness, spirituality, and their impact on human life.

Beyond these core areas, CIIS offers programs in areas such as Social Work, Education, Arts in Psychotherapy, and various interdisciplinary specializations. The curriculum is designed to be both intellectually stimulating and practically relevant, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.

Location and Accessibility

CIIS’s San Francisco location provides a vibrant and stimulating environment for learning. Situated in a diverse and culturally rich city, students benefit from access to a wide range of resources, including museums, cultural institutions, and community organizations. The institute is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all students and visitors can fully participate in the CIIS community. The proximity to Silicon Valley also fosters innovation and collaboration, providing opportunities for students to engage with cutting-edge technologies and ideas.

Opinions and Reputation

The California Institute of Integral Studies consistently receives positive feedback from its students and alumni. As evidenced by its 43 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.4/5, CIIS is recognized for its rigorous academic standards, supportive learning environment, and commitment to social justice. Students frequently praise the faculty’s expertise, the program’s holistic approach, and the institute’s emphasis on personal and professional development. You can view the Google Maps location here.

Key Features and Benefits

• Holistic Curriculum: Integrates diverse disciplines to promote a comprehensive understanding of human experience.
• Expert Faculty: Instructors are leading researchers and practitioners in their fields.
• Community-Based Learning: Opportunities for students to engage in real-world projects and experiences.
• Social Justice Focus: Committed to promoting ethical and sustainable solutions to global challenges.
• Transformative Education: Aims to foster personal growth, social awareness, and leadership skills.

In conclusion, the California Institute of Integral Studies offers a unique and rewarding educational experience for those seeking a transformative and holistic approach to learning. With its strategic location, dedicated faculty, and commitment to social justice, CIIS is a leading institution in the field of integral studies.

👍 Reviews of California Institute of Integral Studies

Ruby W.

5/5

I attended CIIS for the Sex Therapy Certificate Program. This certificate was the perfect mix of theory and specific skills practiced through case studies, roleplays, and group activities. I met the most amazing instructors and classmates from around the world and we were able to go deeper on controversial topics instead of the surface level conversations I've gotten at other schools.

After the very first week, my confidence shot up so much that I began building a website to start my sex therapy private practice. It was a truly emotional & transformative experience - I feel like I learned more over this summer than I did in graduate school.

Marni S.

3/5

I had a very mixed experience with this school. It was well worth the effort, but the school was not supportive when they needed to be which was ironic since many of the programs are focused on learning how to provide holistic psychotherapy. I would think an organization that focused on that subject would be filled with people capable of providing great support. Rather I found, after a few years, that it is very disorganized and in some serious need of an administrative overhaul.

Mike D.

2/5

I used to crash classes here and love that a school like this exists and I am very happy that many pioneers in various fields are finding a more public voice here.

I was recently interested in obtaining a masters and encouraged to apply late (Pauline Reif) with the promise that I would be seen for that semesters admission. After submitting and paying non refundable application fees I was told I was late (which I had clearly known!) and none of my subsequent emails have been responded to. For a school focused on cutting edge psych and interpersonal dynamics, my experience with admissions was a FAR cry from what I hoped they stood for.
I really hope they button up their program, modern and non-mainstream schooling is important, and I find that system wide integrity is even more crucial amongst those who walk on the outskirts.

Lana S.

5/5

This is where I earned my Bachelors degree. I am so grateful to have found a formal education setting where I could earn my degree and avoid the unnecessary stress of standardized testing and grades! This is an institute that is certainly sending out positive ripples into the world… It’s the first in our country to offer a Psychedelic Psychotherapy certificate! The world needs what CIIS is bringing!

Mahesh S.

5/5

A bright, open space that is perfectly equipped to host a discussion between two thought leaders. I didn't care for the speakers on the subject "spirituality and technology," as they were talking way out of their depth. But the space itself is brilliant.

Chris H.

5/5

Cutting edge graduate institution & doctoral program in the field of integral studies, psychodynamic psychotherapy & multidisciplinary consciousness studies. 🏦

Expanding the study of the psyche to include the transpersonal domain is a radically important undertaking for us at this time.⛲

The California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) is at the vanguard of the transpersonal movement and a leader in the field of holistic studies.🕉

Eugene G.

4/5

A major center of the Human Potential movement and the transpersonal psychology with historical roots in the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo, connected with such names as Alan Watts, Stanislav Grof and Richard Tarnas.

Alexander V. P.

5/5

I couldn't have wished for a better education and educational environment. The school promoted different ways of knowing and learning. Highly recommended to anyone who is trying to think outside the box.