The Small Class Advantage at CIAT

Small by Design

At CIAT, you’re a name, not a number.

Our small online classes connect you directly with industry-experienced instructors who know your goal and help you build job-ready skills faster.

21:1

Average Class Size

Why Small Classes Matter

Here’s what a 21:1 average means for you:

More access to your instructors

Our faculty have worked in the field, not just taught it. In a small class, you can ask the real-world questions that matter and get answers from someone who’s been there.

Real feedback on real work

Learning is best when it’s hands-on. Small classes mean your labs, projects, and certification prep get individual attention, not lecture-hall anonymity. You’ll know exactly where you stand and how to improve.

A cohort that has your back

Class sizes small enough that collaboration and mentorship really happen. You’ll learn alongside peers and instructors who recognize your name and your progress.

Class Size by Course Category

We believe in transparency. Here’s how class sizes break down across our course categories, including the average class size so you get a clear picture of the classroom experience.

Course Category

Business Administration

Avg. Class Size

18

Course Category

Business Data Analytics

Avg. Class Size

9

Course Category

Cisco/Linux

Avg. Class Size

27

Course Category

Cloud Computing

Avg. Class Size

25

Course Category

Computer Information Systems

Avg. Class Size

25

Course Category

Cybersecurity

Avg. Class Size

25

Course Category

General Education

Avg. Class Size

25

Course Category

Project Management

Avg. Class Size

15

Course Category

Software Development

Avg. Class Size

17

Course Category

Digital Marketing

Avg. Class Size

13

Course Category

Healthcare

Avg. Class Size

5

Course Category

Human Resources

Avg. Class Size

9

How We Calculate Class Size

Class-size figures are based on enrollment records from the most recent 12-month review period, March 2025–March 2026. Each individual course section is the unit of measurement, and we count the distinct students enrolled in it.

From these section-level counts, we report the average, median, minimum, and maximum class size to give a balanced and complete view of the typical classroom experience.

The primary 21:1 average class size shown above is calculated by averaging the median class sizes of higher-enrollment course groups, those with 250+ distinct enrolled students. Course groups with fewer than 250 distinct enrollments average an even smaller 9:1. We display the higher figure as a conservative, representative measure of overall scale.

What Our Students Say

“After 4 different Universities trying to find my way through this tough college system, I landed on CIAT. I absolutely love and cannot recommend this school enough to people looking to have a legit degree built towards all certifications you need to get going.”

— Lukas Hyden

“What made my experience great at CIAT was the hands-on learning. Instead of just reading about IT concepts, I got to work on real labs using tools like Azure and AWS. This helped me build skills I can actually use on the job.”

— Rey Canonizado

“Better than the traditional school system. Classes are more focused on learning the material and practice.”

— J. M. Gonzalez

Read More Student Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Our average class size is 21:1, and many course groups are smaller still, averaging 9:1. We keep classes small so every student gets meaningful instructor access and individual feedback.

Smaller classes mean your instructor can give individual attention to your lab work and certification preparation, guiding you through real, hands-on exercises rather than one-size-fits-all lectures.

Our instructors are industry-experienced professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom, so you learn skills that map directly to the job. Get to know the faculty here.

Have more questions? Reach out today and admissions advisor will answer any other questions you have!

Request Info

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California Institute of Applied Technology has shared ownership and management of two distinct institutions. California Institute of Applied Technology located in California, and California Institute of Applied Technology located in New Mexico.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. CIAT is approved to offer VA benefits. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

* Students are encouraged to take certification exams while actively enrolled in their Bootcamp, Certificate or Degree program. Unlimited certification exam attempts expire 180 days after program completion. Select exams are not eligible for unlimited retakes - see certification exam policy for details. Industry certifications and/or courses may change at any time to address industry trends or improve student outcomes.