California State University Northridge

About

Founded in 1958, California State University Northridge has the second-largest student body in the California State University System. In total, CSUN’s 9 colleges offer 68 bachelors, 58 masters, and 2 doctoral degree programs.

And, many of them are offered entirely or partially online. These programs constantly fight to stay at the forefront of their fields, in an ongoing effort to offer students a cutting-edge learning experience.

Where Is California State University Northridge Located?

CSUN is located in the heart of Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley. Besides housing your potential future campus, the Valley is also home to the giants of the entertainment industry. Both movie and animation studios call San Fernando home.

Not to mention, so do many celebrities! Students interested in performing arts may find some opportunities to test their classroom knowledge just by stepping off campus.

Enrolling at CSUN

41,548 students attended CSUN in fall 2015. Of those students, 37,188 were enrolled in undergraduate studies. 54% of enrolled ungraduated students were female and 46% were male. Many of those students chose to pursue their education full-time. 81% of undergraduate students attended class full-time and 19% attended part-time.

CSUN’s undergraduate body also offers opportunities for both traditional and adult learners. 80% of students attending undergraduate classes were 24 years old or younger. The remaining 20% were 25 years or older. Adult learners returning to education can seek a welcoming environment at CSU Northridge!

Only 1% of undergraduate students enrolled in only distance education. But, many students did use online classes to supplement their degree program. 41% of students enrolled in some distance education.

In fall 2015, 4,360 graduate students were also enrolled in CSUN. These students were evenly split in how they pursued their studies. 50% of graduate students chose to attend classes full-time and the other 50% part-time. 2% of these students would take part in only distance education. An additional 9% would enroll in some distance education.ⁱ

Undergraduate CSUN Admissions

Undergraduate CSUN admissions are straightforward. Unlike other schools, you may not have to supply tons of additional materials. Instead, they heavily focus on your academic achievements. As part of this, you may be asked to provide the following as part of the admissions process.

Completed Application
2.45 or higher GPA
400-500 SAT Critical Reading Score
390-510 SAT Math Score
Or 15 to 22 ACT Scoreⁱ
High School Transcript

It’s important to note that students that have a 3.6 or higher GPA may not be required to submit a SAT or ACT score. Students with a GPA of 3.22 or lower may still be asked to submit the information.

In addition, some programs may have additional SAT and ACT requirements. For more information about program requirements, visit their page.

Students may be asked to submit a $55 processing fee with their application.

CSUN Acceptance Rate

California State University Northridge accepted 46% of the 34,444 students in its undergraduate applicant pool. Of those students, CSUN accepted 44% of male applicants and 47% of female.

And, many of these students chose to continue their studies at California State University Northridge. Of the students who began pursuing a bachelors degree in fall 2014, 79% of full-time and 46% of part-time students returned in fall 2015.ⁱ

Graduate CSUN Admissions

Graduate students take part in a two-application process. Students may be required to submit applications to both the university and their desired department. This is done because many departments have higher admissions standards or may have aseparate departmental application.

To apply to a graduate program, students may be asked to supply the following materials.

Two completed applications
2.5 or higher GPA
Bachelors or Masters degree

For specific department requirements, visit their program page.

Both undergraduate and graduate applications could be completed using the CSU Mentor.

For more information, visit the CSUN admissions and records site on CSUN.edu.

5 More Reasons to Attend CSUN

California State University Northridge alums include Paula Abdul, Richard Dreyfuss, Olympia LePoint, and Scott Horowitz.
CSUN offers “stackable” degree programs. These programs combine certificate and graduate curriculum into one singular program. This way, you could work towards earning both simultaneously.
Faculty receive specific online course training. This way, they could potentially offer more intuitive online courses.
Online programs connect students with an assigned program manager. These advisors could help students with any administrative or academic issues they may have.
The online programs are taught in a “cohort” format. By doing this, students who enroll at the same time in a program progress together in the same classes until graduation. This creates a supportive learning community for students to take part in.

CSUN’s Online Experience

CSUN’s online programs are designed to help working professionals complete their bachelors or masters education. These programs are offered as part of the Tseng College for Graduate, International, and Midcareer Education.

Much like CSUN’s campus programs, online courses are created to provide comprehensive learning experiences. Faculty work alongside the eLearning team to craft classes that test students’ critical thinking skills and knowledge. 41% of undergraduate students take part in some distance education.ⁱ

Prior to entering the program, students may be required to take part in a 2-week orientation. This process explains how to use the online technology. This way, students could confidently log into their classes on their first day of the semester.

CSUN Financial Aid

85% of full-time, beginning undergraduate students received financial aid in 2014-2015. Out of those students, 82% received grant or scholarship aid. Students received the following median aid from the listed sources.

Federal Grants, $5,016
State & Local Government Grants or Scholarships, $2,067
Institutional Grants or Scholarships, $4,955

In addition, 33% of students received financial aid from student loans. These students received a median of $4,760 in aid from federal and other loan services.ⁱ

The Faculty at CSUN

In fall 2015, California State University Northridge employed 937 full-time and 1,130 part-time faculty members. 100% of these professors devoted 100% of their time to instructing students. No faculty members spent time conducting personal research while on campus.

In addition to faculty, graduate students may also have an opportunity to pursue a position with CSUN. In fall 2015, CSUN employed 274 graduate assistants. Out of these students, 215 assisted professors with instructing undergraduate students. The remaining 59 acted as research assistants or leads.ⁱ

Is California State University Northridge Accredited?

CSUN is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This agency accredits schools that continually work to enhance their programs.

Schools are encouraged to continually set achievable educational goals in order to evolve their current curriculum. The WASC constantly evaluates schools’ progress towards these goals to keep them accountable.

Online Degree Programs

The online CSUN degree programs are offered 100% online. These programs could offer easy access to course materials. And, the eLearning team is constantly looking for new technologies to enhance their current offerings.

As part of these online programs, students could have the chance to pursue some of the following degree programs.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Sector Management
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies

These are only a few degree programs you could pursue online with CSUN.

Additionally, students could supplement their classes with online ones. Students could plan to take certain courses in their curriculum online as opposed to in the classroom. These courses are also offered to students outside of the Tseng College.

Also, the online program offers additional learning opportunities. Students could have that chance to take part in ongoing technical training during their program. This could help them develop their computer literacy. This could help them feel increasingly comfortable using the online tools as well as help them better understand computer systems outside the classroom.

Online MS in Assistive Technology Studies & Human Services

Many CSUN students choose to pursue degree programs in the health sciences. The online master of science in assistive technology studies and human services (MS in ATHS) provides a digital option for distance learners.

The MS in ATHS works on developing technologies to assist people with disabilities. Specifically, it works on designing new features that age with the user. As part of this, students could work with a wide range of patients from children, to adults, to veterans.

Courses could include some of the following.

Emerging Topics in Assistive Technology
History, Law, Policy, and Assistive Technology
Functional Biology
Medical Conditions Affecting Quality of Life

Students could potentially earn a MS in ATHS in two years.

Graduating from CSU Northridge

50% of full-time, first-time students who began their studies in 2009 graduated within 150% of their “normal time” of completion. This number does not account for students who transferred into CSUN or who began their studies part-time.

Out of these students 11% would earn their degree in 4 years. Of the remaining students, 50% graduated in 6 years. 55% of graduates were female and 44% were male.ⁱ

Your Next Steps with CSUN

California State University Northridge could be the next step in your education career. And, their supportive programs and faculty are here to guide the way!

For more details on the information on this page, check out CSUN.edu. Find out more today about things like admissions deadlines, potential courses, and online offerings.

[i] nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=california+state+university+northridge&s=all&id=110608

Accreditation

All degree programs offered by CSUN's Tseng College are regionally accredited by WASC, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501; 510-748-9001). Specific programs may also have additional accreditation; see program sites for more information.

Online Programs

Program Listings

Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Sector Management: Online
  CSUN’s Bachelor degree-completion in Public Sector Management (PSM) program is designed for working adults who have completed their lower-division General Education requirements and wish to earn their Bachelor of Arts degree. This 60-unit multidisciplinary program, which typically takes 2.5 years to complete, prepares graduates for career advancement by furthering competency in the following areas:
  - Budgeting and fiscal management
  - Critical thinking
  - Effective oral and written communication
  - Leadership, management and staff development
  - Problem solving and decision making
  - Team building
Master’s Degree Programs
- M.S. Communication Disorders and Sciences
  Many of us take for granted our ability to speak and comprehend language without issue. However, for adults and children with communication disorders that include autism, dyslexia, and aphasia, seemingly simple tasks can become quite difficult. Thankfully, help is available, and you can be among the caring professionals who bring hope and comfort. CSU Northridge currently offers three programs that will help you make a difference in the lives of adults and children with speech and language disorders… Online Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) •ASHA Accredited, 36-month program that utilizes a convenient distance-learning format to fit the lifestyle of a busy, working adult • Cohort model ensures on-time graduation, as well as an intimate and long-term network between students and faculty • Courses are taught by esteemed faculty with real-world experience in the field of communication disorders • Qualified candidates should have 30 units of approved undergraduate courses in Communicative Disorders (which may be satisfied through the Pre-CDS program) Online Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) Prerequisite Program •2-year, online Pre-CDS program for students from non-CDS or speech language pathology backgrounds who wish to complete required coursework for a master’s-level program in CDS • Students who complete this program may be automatically admitted to the online Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences • This prerequisite program also provides a great foundation for entry into the online Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Fieldwork Experience certificate program •Course topics include speech and language development, phonetics, voice and fluency disorders, speech science, and language disorders Online Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Fieldwork Experience Certificate Program •100-hour program allows you to study online at home for six weeks, then complete an 80-hour, six-week clinical field experience • Great fit for students with a bachelor's in communication disorder sciences (CDS) or speech-language pathology who have not been accepted to a master's-level program or do not wish to pursue a master's degree in these areas • Graduates of this program can expect increases in responsibilities, authority, and salary, whether in their current positions or in new opportunities • 10 graded Continuing Education Units (CEUs) • Available to California residents only Are you interested in learning more about how CSU Northridge can help you advance your career in the field of communication disorders? Complete the form on the right today and we will be in touch with you soon to further discuss your career and academic goals.
- Master of Arts in Diverse Community Development Leadership
  This online master's program prepares you for a career leading diverse organizations and communities. Designed for working adults, the program emphasizes contemporary social theory – with a focus on social justice – and features hands-on workshops and assignments.
  In courses with other working professionals, you will learn how to:
  - Lead diverse communities, organizations, and agencies
  - Help communities identify their core needs
  - Strategically plan major goals and initiatives
  - Write grant proposals and spearhead fundraising campaigns
  - Coordinate programs and manage relations with community partners
  - Research complex issues and recommend evidence-based solutions
  Courses focus on organizational leadership models, social justice in diverse communities, conflict resolution, research methods, community partnerships, and communication management.
  Justice through Leadership
  In your courses, you will develop the leadership skills to help communities identify their needs, manage conflicts, and enact socially just practices and policies.
  As you hone your leadership abilities, you will also examine modern systems of power, giving you the context to understand current social, political, and historical inequities. This strong theoretical and historical knowledge, which you will build throughout the program, is necessary to make informed and effective leadership decisions.
  Equipped with the program's leadership framework, you can enter the field with the utmost confidence and move forward with the important work to come: disrupting unjust power equations and helping communities fulfill their self-defined goals.
  Listening and Assessment Tools
  In addition to leadership training, you will acquire the tools and strategies – among them, planning, assessment, monitoring, and evaluation – to successfully manage the social change process.
  The program places particular emphasis on strategic and compassionate listening. One of the most important tools in community development, listening – and the strategies to do it well – allows you to assess a community's needs from the inside.
  Once a community is heard, you can then work together to propose solutions, develop a strategic plan, and proceed to a real-world change. This program trains you to do that, empowering people and communities with a voice.
  Learn by doing
  In the program, you will identify and work with a local community partner. As you build practical experience, learning how organizations function in the real world, you will also develop a portfolio to share with prospective employers.
  This, in addition to classroom instruction, equips you with the practical management skills to lead teams and organizations in the implementation of social change.
  Work-friendly scheduling
  This program is delivered fully online, providing you with significant flexibility to complete course work at times and in places that fit your schedule.
  Although the program is online, classes meet once weekly in a convenient digital environment, providing live interaction to build important relationships with your professors and fellow students.
  Cohort-format delivery
  This program is delivered in the cohort, or group learning, format. With this model, you will join a group of other working adults and move with them from the first day of class to the last. This learning community supports your goals, connects with you professionally and helps you graduate on time.
  Exceptional support services
  A program management team will assist you on your academic journey, handling all administrative matters and freeing you to concentrate on your course work and your career. And to help you fund your continuing education, our team of financial aid advisors is ready to explore your options.
  Excellence in Online Education
  CSUN's online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement as the university's on-campus programs. This online program is taught by full-time faculty, whose engagement with online students is equivalent to their interaction with students on campus.
- Master of Arts in Humanities
  This mind-expanding, graduate-degree program is for college graduates of any age, area of expertise, or stage in their careers who want to become more innovative as problem-solvers and leaders in their communities and workplaces.
  
  Designed especially for those with wide-ranging interests (e.g., business, education, art and lifelong learning), CSUN’s online Humanities program is an excellent choice for those who want to make their lives as meaningful as possible while keeping their options for further exploration and professional development open.
  
  This 20-month, fully online program offers a course of study that emphasizes critical thinking, discussion and reflection. Through these processes, participants discover how to achieve more holistic, effective and fulfilling lives in any profession or area of interest.
  
  The program achieves this outcome with a stimulating curriculum that focuses on humankind’s most important questions, such as:
  • What constitutes “the good life”?
  • How meaningful are cultural differences?
  • What is a just society?
  • What is fair treatment?
  • How can major challenges be met most effectively?
  
  Prepares graduates for careers, professional advancement and personal re-invention
  In today’s constantly evolving work environments, employers are increasingly seeking employees who are flexible enough to apply a broad set of conceptual skills in ways that can meet the unique - and ever-changing - needs of their organizations.
  Moreover, because most of today’s working adults will switch careers during their lives, CSUN’s online Master of Arts in Humanities program is crafted to enable students to develop habits of mind that will facilitate lifelong intellectual exploration, agility and adaptability.
  Program Highlights
  In this program, participants interact online while learning to:
  • think more logically,
  • communicate clearly and effectively,
  • analyze and synthesize problems, and
  • respond appropriately to challenges of any kind.
  The program’s academic content synthesizes the best of humanity’s collective wisdom from a wide range of fields, including history, philosophy, ethics, law and religion.
  Its online format supports an unusually high level of shared honesty, which results in stimulating discussions of assigned topics. This format also gives students time to reflect on course content and shape their insights before sharing them with fellow learners for feedback and further inspiration.
  
  Students not only share these interests through regular assignments and discussions but also incorporate and expand upon them in their individual “comprehensive experiences.” These culminating projects can take virtually any form that can be shared (e.g., videos, group presentations, portfolios, short films, etc.). Students are encouraged to come to the CSUN campus twice during the program to attend Weekend Intensives during which, students will conceptualize, create, and finalize their projects. For students eligible for federal Financial Aid, a portion of the cost of these Weekend Intensives may be covered.
  
  CSUN online programs share the same distinguished faculty and high academic standards with on-campus programs
  This accelerated 20-month program will be fully online, providing midcareer adults with significant flexibility for completing coursework at times and in places that fit their own weekly schedules. All CSUN online programs are crafted by the same distinguished faculty and leading practitioners as CSUN's on-campus programs. CSUN's online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement. Every online program is taught by CSUN full- and part-time faculty, whose digital engagement with online students is qualitatively equivalent to their engagement with students on campus.
  
  Program cohorts encourage teamwork, support and high graduation rates
  While students complete assignments on their own time within a structured schedule, they proceed through this program as a cohort with a limited number of participants, thereby developing a supportive network of fellow learners. The cohort design guarantees registration in all required courses and also typically results in on-time program completion rates of 85 percent or higher.
  
  Exceptional support services designed for working professionals
  From application to graduation, students enjoy the one-on-one support of a designated program manager and a CSUN faculty member assigned to coordinate the efforts of all teaching in the program. This support frees busy professionals from navigating the University's administrative systems to focus on their studies.
- Master of Arts in Instructional Design
  Explore how and why people learn, and how best to support them, in CSUN’s online Master’s in Instructional Design. You’ll learn how to design and deliver effective, compelling lessons – whether you’re teaching in an online classroom, preparing training sessions for employees or designing how-to modules for products and services. You’ll also delve into the development and use of instructional games and simulations, an exciting new area in the field.
  A Master’s that Fits Your Schedule
  This 30-unit program is designed for maximum flexibility to help working students earn their Masters in Instructional Design degree in as little as 16 months. Classes are delivered fully online and taken one at a time, with only two courses per semester. The program also uses the cohort model, in which students proceed as a group. This creates a supportive community that helps you to graduate on time and build a professional network.
  What Could You Do with an Instructional Design Master’s Degree?
  Course work prepares you to design, implement and assess educational programs in any setting. Upon graduating, you’ll be ready to:
  - Design educational courses
  - Develop employee training programs
  - Design and prototype educational games and simulations
  - Manage projects
  - Create online instructional modules
  - Assess the effectiveness of educational interventions
  - Use instructional games and simulations in an education or corporate setting
  Simultaneously Earn A Certificate in Instructional Games and Simulations
  As a unique benefit of this program, students have the ability to earn a certificate in Instructional Games and Simulations – with no additional classes or course work. You’ll study how to design, prototype and evaluate games and simulations to engage users and enhance their experiences through play-based learning. Courses teach you how to create effective learning apps, write code for instructional software and develop tools used by popular games like Duolingo and Lumosity.
  Build Your Portfolio and Gain Hands-On Experience
  To prepare you for life after graduation, most course work is project-based, providing hands-on experience with many of the field's professional tools and technologies. These include learning management systems such as Canvas, as well as popular 3D modeling software, like Unity.
  You‘ll also build your own learning games, test prototypes and develop an experience-rich portfolio to share with prospective employers. This, along with classroom instruction, will help you develop the practical knowledge and project management skills needed to lead teams and projects.
  Your Future Starts Now – Start Your Instructional Design Master’s Degree Online
  Take advantage of the distinguished faculty and leading practitioners who teach on CSUN’s campus, without ever leaving home. The university's online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement. To learn more and speak with an admission advisor, simply fill out the on-page form.
  The next start date may be around the corner. Invest in your future. Apply to CSUN’s Online Master of Arts in Instructional Design today!
- Master of Arts in Music Industry Administration
  Business Management Toolkit
  
  Develop the leadership skills to advance in the music business, and learn about promotion, marketing, management, e-commerce, live entertainment, copyright law and more.
  
  Fully Online
  
  Attend class online and complete course work at times and in places that work best for you.
  
  No Performance Requirement for Admission
  
  Enter the program without a performance evaluation.
  
  Get Connected / Networking Opportunities
  
  Attend major events, connect with industry leaders, and make a name for yourself in the music business.
  
  1:1 Support
  
  Receive one-on-one-support from a team dedicated to your academic and professional success.
  
  Distinguished Faculty
  
  Learn from an outstanding faculty of senior music industry professionals, widely recognized scholars, and high-profile guest speakers.
- Master of Knowledge Management
  Designed for working professionals, this program prepares you to manage the intellectual and knowledge-based assets of various organizations, including corporations, non-profits and government agencies. Delivered fully online, the program features work-friendly scheduling and takes two years to finish.
  A Master’s that Fits Your Schedule
  This 36-unit program is designed for maximum flexibility to help working students earn their Master of Knowledge Management degree in as little as two years. Classes are delivered fully online and taken one at a time, with only two courses per semester. The program also uses the cohort model, in which students proceed as a group. This creates a supportive community that helps you to graduate on time and build a professional network.
  What Could You Do with a Knowledge Management Master’s Degree?
  Upon graduating, you’ll be ready to:
  - Manage information and data for a variety of companies and purposes
  - Develop and transfer knowledge in organizations
  - Identify new services and improve organizational performance
  - Increase collaboration and knowledge-sharing among people and departments
  - Foster innovation in research and development, operations, product design, marketing and sales
  - Manage, preserve and protect organizational knowledge and intellectual properties
  Take advantage of the distinguished faculty and leading practitioners who teach on CSUN’s campus, without ever leaving home. The university's online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement.
- Master of Public Administration - Public Sector Management/Leadership: Online
  The Public Sector Management and Leadership option within CSUN's nationally-ranked MPA program develops and enhances management skills, enabling graduates to function more effectively within all types of public organizations. This option emphasizes both the quantitative aspects of management (i.e., decisions based on analytical data) and the human dynamics of leadership. By emphasizing conceptual and professional development, the program offers a well-rounded perspective of the field and develops leaders with a broad understanding at both the organizational and theoretical levels.
  
  Most participants come to the program with highly specialized knowledge that reflects their experience within a particular area of expertise. The program's integrated curriculum provides graduates with a broader perspective as well as a conceptual vocabulary for leading agencies through increasingly complex issues. The program also emphasizes systems thinking, which gives participants an understanding of the external and internal forces that impact decision-making and problem-solving at their agencies.
  MPA students also benefit from the following features:
  • Work-friendly flexibility: CSUN's online format was designed especially for midcareer adults and its significant flexibility allows for completing coursework at times and in places that best suit each student’s unique schedule.
  • Distinguished faculty: The MPA program is taught by CSUN faculty who also work in the field in a range of settings and roles. The program focuses on an evidence-based approach to learning and problem solving. The study of real-world cases brings current knowledge into the classroom and provides students with an optimal combination of theory and practice.
  • Guaranteed enrollment: Students admitted into the program are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses.
  • Exceptional Support Services: CSUN offers exceptional support services designed for working professionals. From application to graduation, students enjoy the one-on-one support of a designated program manager and a CSUN faculty member assigned to coordinate the efforts of all teaching in the program. This personalized support frees busy professionals to focus on their studies without University- or program-related administrative distractions.
  • Expertly-crafted courses: The program is designed so that each consecutive course builds on the knowledge gained in previous coursework to ensure a cohesive and cumulative educational experience.
  • Cohesive learning community: Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of industry professionals and also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
- Master of Public Administration: Health Administration
  CSUN created the Health Administration option of our nationally-ranked MPA program in response to requests for an opportunity to develop leadership and management skills specific to health-related organizations. Since there are many public sector nuances within the health care sector, it is crucial for those involved to have the capacity for managing both domains. This two-year online program empowers individuals in both the public and private sectors who work with health-related organizations and fosters their ability to work across all facets of this growing industry.
  
  It is crucial that those who manage organizations that interface with the healthcare sector have the training to supervise workers, and lead teams with the upmost skill and efficiency. Students will leave the program prepared for management roles with the ability to directly impact the efficiency of health-related organizations, implement effective health care public policy and improve access to quality care.
  
  The Evolving Health Care Landscape
  Health care is one of the fastest growing industries and career opportunities continue to expand in various health-related organizations, including:
  • Hospitals
  • Managed care and health insurance
  • Medical group management
  • Home health and long-term care facilities
  • Local, state and federal public agencies
  • Medical equipment companies
  • Medical billing companies
  • Biomedical industry
  • Public health industry
  
  Online programs that meet exceptional standards
  CSUN's online delivery format provides midcareer adults with significant flexibility for completing coursework at times and in places that fit their own schedules.
  The distinguished faculty and leading practitioners who design and teach in CSUN's on-campus programs also craft the university's online programs, which are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement.
  
  Work-friendly flexibility
  Students are enrolled in two assigned courses per semester and are able to attend classes and access course materials at their own convenience. This flexibility enables busy professionals to continue working while they pursue a graduate degree.
  
  A cohesive and supportive learning community
  Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of fellow industry professionals. The cohort design not only guarantees enrollment in all required courses but also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
  
  Exceptional support services
  CSUN offers exceptional support services designed for working professionals. From application to graduation, students enjoy the one-on-one support of a designated program manager; as well as access to a CSUN faculty member assigned to coordinate the efforts of those who teach in the program.
  
  Stackable curricula
  For those with bachelor's degrees who are not certain they wish to pursue the MPA degree at this time, CSUN offers stackable curricula. This feature enables students to take the MPA-linked Health Administration graduate-certificate program and apply the graduate credits earned to the Master of Public Administration degree at a later time. In addition, nine units of credit earned in the Health Administration graduate-certificate program can be used to satisfy the requirements of CSUN's Master of Science in Health Administration. Contact us to determine financial-aid eligibility for the certificate-only program option.
- Master of Public Administration: Nonprofit Sector Management
  Be a positive change agent.
  CSUN created the Nonprofit Sector Management option of our nationally-ranked MPA program in response to requests for an opportunity to develop leadership and management skills specific to nonprofit organizations. Since many nonprofits rely on public sector funding and contract their services out to those same public agencies, it is crucial for those involved to have the capacity for managing both domains. This program empowers individuals working in both the public and private sectors of a philanthropic organization and fosters their ability to work across all facets of the nonprofit world.
  The Nonprofit Sector Management option is designed for purpose-driven individuals who wish to develop professionally by acquiring expertise in budgeting, financial management, advocacy, leadership, stakeholder relations, and strategic planning. By emphasizing conceptual and professional development, the program offers a well-rounded perspective of philanthropy's role in civil society by focusing on both administrative and managerial issues.
  In addition to an excellent learning experience, all CSUN MPA students benefit from the following features:
  Programs designed to promote effective learning -
  Courses are developed by industry professionals and CSUN faculty. The program is designed so that each course builds on the knowledge gained from previous coursework to ensure a cohesive and cumulative educational experience.
  CSUN's online format was designed especially for midcareer adults and its significant flexibility allows for completing coursework at times and in places that best suit each student’s unique schedule.
  Distinguished faculty -
  The distinguished faculty and leading practitioners who design and teach CSUN's on-campus programs also craft the university's online programs, which are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement. Moreover, faculty engagement with CSUN online students is equivalent to their engagement with on-campus students.
  The MPA program is taught by CSUN faculty who also work in the field in a range of settings and roles. The program uses an evidence-based approach to learning and problem solving through the study of real-world cases. By bringing current data into the classroom and CSUN provides the best blend of theory and practice.
  Flexible learning options -
  Students in this two-year program enroll in two assigned courses per semester. Because the online courses are continuously available during the scheduled semester, students are able to attend classes and access course materials at their own convenience.
  Guaranteed enrollment & exceptional support services -
  Students admitted into the program are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses. CSUN also offers exceptional support services designed for working professionals. From application to graduation, students enjoy the one-on-one support of a designated program manager and a CSUN faculty member. This personalized support frees busy professionals to focus on their work and studies without university or program related administrative distractions.
  Cohesive learning community
  Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of fellow industry professionals. The cohort design not only guarantees enrollment in all required courses but also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
- Master of Public Administration: Online
  This MPA program is offered on-campus, off-campus (on-site cohort), and online. It is designed primarily for professionals currently employed in the public/ nonprofit sectors who wish to develop their management and administrative skills in order to excel in their current roles or to advance into positions of greater responsibility or leadership. The CSUN MPA program is also helpful for those who are pursuing careers in government or with international organizations.
  
  Because most CSUN MPA students are busy professionals, the design of this 36-unit program offers maximum convenience and flexibility with three delivery options: 1) on campus (open-enrollment format); 2) off-campus (cohort format); and 3) online (cohort format).
  
  In comparison with other degree programs in this field, the CSUN MPA offers a more interdisciplinary, multifaceted approach to problem solving that blends public sector theory with practice and emphasizes the application of critical skills to managerial and leadership functions. This practical focus is possible because many of the program's faculty members are both esteemed professors in their areas of specialization and active professionals who ensure that program content is current and relevant.
  
  CSUN also offers MPA-linked graduate certificate programs that not only expand and update professional capabilities in targeted areas but also offer credits that can be applied to satisfaction of the MPA degree requirements.
  What to know about the CSUN Master of Public Administration.
  -CSUN is California’s leading provider of MPA degrees.
  -CSUN is the nation’s third-largest provider of MPA degrees.
  -We provide an Ivy League-quality educational experience (including a sound theoretical foundation, practical applications and exceptional student support services) at a state-university price.
  -Of the nation’s top four MPA providers, only CSUN offers both online and face-to-face instruction -- at the most off-campus locations.
  -Since 1985, more than 2,000 graduates have earned their MPA degrees at CSUN. Discover why they selected us by contacting us today.
- Master of Public Health: Community Health Education
  Designed in collaboration with the university's College of Health and Human Development, CSUN’s two-year, seven-term online Master of Public Health: Health Education program is an ideal choice for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the field. Covering the five core areas of public health and professional preparation (biostatistics; environmental health; epidemiology; health policy and management; and social and behavioral science), it also includes field training in the public sector to provide practical experience and foster the development of decision-making skills.
  Program participants come from a variety of backgrounds, including the health professions and health sciences, sociology and public health administration. MPH graduates go on to work in a range of disciplines and settings, including local, state and national public health departments; health-based nonprofits; community-based organizations; clinical and patient education; health advocacy; social work; worksite health promotion; research, academia, and schools.
  This program is also suited for those pursuing careers with the World Health Organization (WHO), which requires a postgraduate specialization in a health- or management-related field for its higher-grade positions.
  Combining academic excellence, flexibility, and real-world experience, CSUN’s online MPH program features
  • A rigorous, carefully crafted curriculum, taught by the same CSUN faculty who teach in the on-campus program
  • A well-designed and effective online learning experience
  • Individualized training and ongoing support for faculty to ensure instructional excellence
  • Students also receive beginning-to-end support from the Tseng College's professional distance-learning staff.
  • A cohesive and supportive community: The program's cohort format not only supports graduation rates of 85% or higher, but also encourages the development of strong relationships among like-minded public health professionals as they proceed through the coursework as a group.
  • Real-world perspective: The program's fieldwork component gives participants direct, practical experience in the public health sector. They also enjoy opportunities to work with faculty who are experienced practitioners and scholars in their fields.
  • Flexible, work-friendly format: The program’s dynamic online format features asynchronous class meetings and weekly assignments, enabling participants to meet their professional and personal obligations as they move through the program.
  • Guaranteed enrollment: Participants are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses. In addition, the on-going support of a designated program manager, from application to graduation, frees students to focus on their studies and fieldwork.
- Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
  This two-year program enables participants to both earn the master's degree and become eligible to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination, which permits them to practice as board-certified behavior analysts. The program also provides graduates with the foundation necessary for pursuing doctoral degrees.
  
  Offered in collaboration with the Department of Psychology in CSUN's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and taught by distinguished practitioners, this program is unique in that – in addition to providing practical training in applied behavior analysis – it also requires advanced coursework in human development, psychopathology, family relations and research methodology. Participants learn how to conduct thorough behavioral assessments, implement and monitor evidence-based interventions, and consult with parents, caregivers and school personal while adhering to the profession's ethical guidelines.
  
  Designed to Meet the Needs of Working Professionals.
  
  • Work-friendly schedule: This program features evening and weekend courses which provides students with the convenience of course completion while continuing to advance in their career.
  
  • Cohort-format: Maximizes interaction with faculty and fosters the development of networking relationships with fellow participants.
  
  • Distinguished faculty: Taught by prominent experts in their respective disciplines, CSUN’s ABA program has been ranked first among comprehensive universities preparing students who later earn doctorate degrees in psychology by the National Science Foundation (CSUN University Advancement).
  
  Recent salary and job demand information from the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts indicates that there is considerable regional variation in BCBA salaries, which are generally highest in California.
- Master of Science in Assistive Technology Engineering
  This online master’s program prepares you for a career in assistive technology development. Designed for working adults, the program emphasizes hands-on experience and helps you build a portfolio of design projects to share with prospective employers.
  A Master’s that Fits Your Schedule
  This 33-unit program is designed for maximum flexibility to help working students earn their Master of Science in Assistive Technology Engineering degree in as little as two years. Classes are delivered fully online and taken one at a time, with only two courses per semester. The program also uses the cohort model, in which students proceed as a group. This creates a supportive community that helps you to graduate on time and build a professional network.
  What Could You Do with an Assistive Technology Engineering Master’s Degree?
  Upon graduating, you’ll be ready to:
  - Design and develop new assistive technology products
  - Manage highly technical teams and projects
  - Identify new uses for existing assistive technologies
  - Develop a systems mindset
  - Expand your technical abilities
  Build Your Portfolio and Gain Hands-On Experience
  The program provides hands-on training with many of the field's professional tools and technologies. In group projects with other working professionals, you’ll build and test prototypes, and then create a portfolio to share with prospective employers.
  This, in addition to classroom instruction, equips you with the project management skills to lead teams of other engineers in the design and execution of highly technical assignments.
  Take advantage of the distinguished faculty and leading practitioners who teach on CSUN’s campus, without ever leaving home. The university's online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement.
- Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services
  Enable persons with disabilities to live more independently through assistive technology.
  With more than 4,000 developing technologies that enable persons with disabilities to live more productive, independent and fulfilling lives, this academic discipline has emerged to provide human services professionals with a variety of skills and theoretical knowledge to ensure that assistive technology (AT) users are able to access and benefit fully from advances in the field.
  Physical disabilities affect every sector of the population - school-age children, young adults, seniors, veterans and more. In addition, because lifespans are lengthening, and disability often accompanies increasing age, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts substantial long-term growth in all health-service sectors, including the areas of assistive, adaptive and access technologies.
  
  Gain essential knowledge from a world-renowned disability-services leader.
  Internationally recognized for its expertise in disability services, CSUN created its online Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services (ATHS) program to meet the growing demand for skilled AT specialists, who can assess, assist, train, and empower those using assistive technology in their daily lives. As the first master’s degree of its kind in Southern California, CSUN’s ATHS program prepares students to synthesize the interconnections between human and technological factors, explain and interpret product design and function, assess AT users’ needs, interpret the legal and political history of assistive technology, and develop relevant delivery protocols.
  Offered in collaboration with CSUN’s College of Health and Human Development, this two-year, online, 12-course program prepares working professionals for rewarding careers that enhance the lives of those who rely on assistive-technology devices.
  Designed to Meet the Needs of Working Professionals.
  • Work-friendly scheduling: This online program provides busy adults with significant flexibility for completing coursework at times and in places that fit their schedules. CSUN’s online programs are held to the same high standards of academic excellence and student achievement as the university’s on-campus programs. Every online program is taught by both full- and part-time faculty, whose engagement with online students is equivalent to their interaction with students on campus.
  • Cohort-format: Students progress through the program as a group. This format not only ensures industry-leading graduation rates of 85% or higher, but also maximizes interaction with faculty and fellow students. The cohort format also results in the formation of highly valuable and long-lasting networking relationships that last well beyond graduation.
  • Exceptional support services: These include a designated program advisor, who -- by handling administrative matters from application to graduation for each cohort -- frees students to concentrate on their coursework and careers.
  • Distinguished faculty: Taught by prominent experts in their respective disciplines, CSUN’s ATHS program provides an essential knowledge base for career development in the rapidly growing AT and human services field.
  • Industry event participation: The Tseng College supports the annual CSUN International Technology and Persons with Disability Conference - the world’s largest of its kind - in which ATHS students are encouraged to participate.
- Master of Science in Engineering Management
  CSUN’s two-year online Master of Science in Engineering Management program prepares engineers to transition into management positions within engineering and technical firms. The transition would enable engineers in management positions to lead and excel in senior roles in contemporary organizations. In a competitive and demanding global economy, professional engineering practice is increasingly complex, which raises the demand for well-educated engineers and technical professionals who can design new solutions and lead innovative teams to give an organization a competitive advantage.
  Engineering companies depend heavily on innovative, agile responses to emerging opportunities and challenges, the creation and management of diverse talent, and the anticipation of market needs to gain and hold a competitive edge. This program equips graduates with the tools and principals necessary to find innovative management solutions for the modern engineering industry.
  
  Prepare for Success in Leadership Roles
  Engineering managers had a median pay of $132,800 in 2015, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. In 2015, California ranked first of all the states with the highest employment level in this occupation, with an annual mean wage of $165,800. The expanding job market will increasingly favor engineers with the communication and business management skills that are as necessary as advanced technical knowledge.
  
  Program Educational Advantages
  Program participants will:
  • Develop project management skills and the ability to respond successfully to challenges of managing technical projects.
  • Learn how to effectively lead and manage diverse teams of engineers and technical professionals.
  • Hone analytic, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Acquire practical solutions to the challenges of working in a global business environment, including issues of economic feasibility, project marketing, scheduling, and budgeting.
  • Learn about the dynamics of innovation and solution design.
  • Gain a mastery of supply chain management, quality management, and sustainability to add immediate value to their organizations.
  
  Advantages of the Program’s Design
  • This is a fully-online program that gives the working professional significant flexibility and allows participants to continue to work full time while earning their degree.
  • The program is offered in a cohort format, which builds a strong learning community. Largely as a result of this format, CSUN’s fully-online graduate programs commonly have on-time graduation rates of 75% or more, with some reaching over 90%.
  • Graduates from the program earn both the M.S. in Engineering Management and the CSUN University Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management.
  • Coursesfeature workshops and assignments with immediate real-world application; graduates will gain firsthand insight on quality management, supply chain systems, risk management, innovation, finance, and more.
  • Courses are taught by accomplished CSUN faculty as well as leading practitioners with years of experience in engineering and high-tech firms.
- Master of Science in Nursing
  Become a nurse educator.
  
  This master’s program prepares you for advanced practice as a nurse educator. In only fifteen months, you’ll develop the sophisticated skills and knowledge to transform health care environments and excel in senior nursing positions.
  
  In addition to fully online classes, the program features clinical training at a location near you.
  
  Alongside other nursing professionals, you’ll learn how to:
  
      Promote safe, high-quality care for diverse patient populations and communities
      Lead organizational changes in hospitals and clinics
      Educate and train a new generation of nurses
      Craft and implement policies that promote patient advocacy
      Develop an infrastructure that leads to improved and cost-efficient health outcomes
  
  Course work includes lectures, classroom activities, online modules, simulations and clinical practice rotation.
  Earn your national certification.
  
  When you finish the program, you’ll qualify to sit for the National League of Nursing Education Certification Exam, which certifies you as Nurse Educator (CNE). This designation is attractive to employers nationwide – and, combined with your master’s, will help you stand apart in today’s highly competitive market.
  Prepare for practice at the highest level.
  
  With our partners in industry, we designed a curriculum based on theory, practice and real-world relevance, giving you the professional skill set to address and manage health care’s most urgent needs.
  
  Along with advanced study of emerging trends, you’ll gain a mastery of nursing theory, curriculum design, organizational leadership, evidence-based practice, and health care policy.
  Gain valuable clinical experience.
  
  Outside your classes, you’ll engage in important clinical fieldwork. Offered in a variety of health care settings, at a location near you, this hands-on practice is critical to your development as a nurse educator and serves as a necessary compliment to academic study.
  Attend class completely online.
  
  As you hone your clinical abilities, we’ll help you master essential concepts in class – all on our convenient online platform. Our online courses feature live class sessions, on-demand access to learning materials and daily networking opportunities.
  
  From day one, you’ll engage in a curriculum designed by industry experts, available to you anytime and anywhere.
  Get ongoing, personal support.
  
  Throughout the program, you’ll receive the one-on-one support of a team dedicated to your personal and professional success. These specialists, in addition to being good listeners, can help you with all administrative matters, freeing you to focus on your course work and your career.
- Master of Social Work: Online
  Unlike many social work programs, CSUN’s Master of Social Work expands students' career possibilities by offering a generalist approach. The curriculum also enables students to gain the skills and perspective to work at any level: individual/family (micro); group/community (mezzo); and societal/policy (macro).Our program gives students the opportunity to work with vulnerable and at-risk populations and cultivates an appreciation of the planned-change process.
  Flexible Learning Options
  • Fully online, as a two-year, full-time program - In addition to completing regular online assignments, the MSW program typically meets weekly for live, online sessions one week night per week, in each class. The specific day time for live sessions will be announced no later than one month before the cohort launch. Rare exceptions may apply.
  High Quality Education
  • Esteemed Faculty - Courses are led by distinguished CSUN faculty members who are experts in their fields. No matter which learning option – online or off-campus – students choose, they receive outstanding instructional quality together with personalized support, at a state-university price. In fact, CSUN’s online program can prepare students in less time, and can cost half as much, as a private university program.
  • Outstanding support - Students admitted to the program are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses. What’s more, the complete and on-going support of a designated Program Manager, from application to graduation, frees them to focus on their studies and their field placement requirements.
  • A cohesive and supportive learning community –Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of fellow industry professionals. The cohort design not only guarantees enrollment in all required courses but also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
  • Well-designed, effective distance learning - As one of the first American universities to offer graduate degrees online, CSUN does not entrust its learning community to commercial providers. Rather, CSUN faculty and practitioners receive training and support to ensure instructional excellence. Students also benefit from the beginning-to-end support of CSUN’s professional Distance Learning staff.
  •Field education - Field education provides the guided practice needed to prepare MSW students to become advanced social work professionals. CSUN faculty will help facilitate the placement of students in approved settings that are within a reasonable distance from the student’s home or work.
  CSUN's MSW degree prepares students for careers as direct service providers, administrators, community advocates, counselors, policy makers, researchers, supervisors and service workers in a wide variety of settings, including community and government organizations, health care centers, schools, and more.
- Master of Social Work: Online 3 year
  Unlike many social work programs, CSUN’s Master of Social Work expands students' career possibilities by offering a generalist approach. The curriculum also enables students to gain the skills and perspective to work at any level: individual/family (micro); group/community (mezzo); and societal/policy (macro).Our program gives students the opportunity to work with vulnerable and at-risk populations and cultivates an appreciation of the planned-change process.
  Flexible Learning Options
  • Fully online, as a three-year, full-time program - In addition to completing regular online assignments, the MSW program typically meets weekly for live, online sessions one week night per week, in each class. The specific day time for live sessions will be announced no later than one month before the cohort launch. Rare exceptions may apply.
  High Quality Education
  • Esteemed Faculty - Courses are led by distinguished CSUN faculty members who are experts in their fields. No matter which learning option – online or off-campus – students choose, they receive outstanding instructional quality together with personalized support, at a state-university price. In fact, CSUN’s online program can prepare students in less time, and can cost half as much, as a private university program.
  • Outstanding support - Students admitted to the program are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses. What’s more, the complete and on-going support of a designated Program Manager, from application to graduation, frees them to focus on their studies and their field placement requirements.
  • A cohesive and supportive learning community –Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of fellow industry professionals. The cohort design not only guarantees enrollment in all required courses but also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
  • Well-designed, effective distance learning - As one of the first American universities to offer graduate degrees online, CSUN does not entrust its learning community to commercial providers. Rather, CSUN faculty and practitioners receive training and support to ensure instructional excellence. Students also benefit from the beginning-to-end support of CSUN’s professional Distance Learning staff.
  •Field education - Field education provides the guided practice needed to prepare MSW students to become advanced social work professionals. CSUN faculty will help facilitate the placement of students in approved settings that are within a reasonable distance from the student’s home or work.
  CSUN's MSW degree prepares students for careers as direct service providers, administrators, community advocates, counselors, policy makers, researchers, supervisors and service workers in a wide variety of settings, including community and government organizations, health care centers, schools, and more.
- Master of Taxation
  A practice-oriented learning experience, designed for working professionals
  Inspired by the Bookstein Institute for Higher Education in Taxation, CSUN’s M.S. in Taxation program is taught fully on campus and takes only 18 months to complete. Classes meet some evenings and weekends and no classes are scheduled during the busy tax season.
  
  Program Highlights
  • Leading tax practitioners teach over 90% of the courses. The majority of faculty members are practicing CPAs and many hold law degrees in addition to graduate degrees in taxation.
  • The program’s Tax Challenge Project, Federal Tax Clinic, and student-run “Tax Development Journal” provide opportunities for learners to integrate theory with practice and gain valuable practical experience.
  • This fully accredited program meets California’s 150-hour requirement for CPA-licensure.
  • This program is taught in the cohort format, which maximizes opportunities for interaction with faculty as well as the development of valuable networking relationships with fellow tax professionals. Furthermore, enrollment in all courses is guaranteed.
  
  Program cohorts encourage teamwork, support and high graduation rates
  While students complete assignments on their own time within a structured schedule, they proceed through this program as a cohort with a limited number of participants, thereby developing a supportive network of fellow learners. The cohort design guarantees registration in all required courses and also typically results in on-time program completion rates of 90 percent or higher.
  
  Exceptional support services designed for working professionals
  From application to graduation, students enjoy the one-on-one support of a designated program manager and a CSUN faculty member assigned to coordinate the efforts of all teaching in the program. This support frees busy professionals from navigating the University's administrative systems to focus on their studies.
  
  Accredited programs from one of the nation’s leading universities
  The Master of Science in Taxation program is offered by California State University, Northridge through its Department of Accounting and Information Systems in the David Nazarian College of Business and Economics, which is accredited by AACSB, the highest standard in business and management education, in partnership with CSUN’s Tseng College. CSUN is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Certificate
- Communication Disorder Sciences (CDS) Prerequisite Program
  Many of us take for granted our ability to speak and comprehend language without issue. However, for adults and children with communication disorders that include autism, dyslexia, and aphasia, seemingly simple tasks can become quite difficult. Thankfully, help is available, and you can be among the caring professionals who bring hope and comfort.
  
  Online Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) Prerequisite Program
  
  •2-year, online Pre-CDS program for students from non-CDS or speech language pathology backgrounds who wish to complete required coursework for a master’s-level program in CDS
  • Students who complete this program may be automatically admitted to the online Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences
  • This prerequisite program also provides a great foundation for entry into the online Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Fieldwork Experience certificate program
  •Course topics include speech and language development, phonetics, voice and fluency disorders, speech science, and language disorders
- Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
  Designed for working professionals with undergraduate degrees in fields other than business, CSUN's Graduate Certificate in Business Administration program focuses on the development of essential business-management skills. Upon completion of the program, students will be capable of increasing productivity and achieving enhanced results in virtually any business environment.
  
  This program, which consists of six courses and takes only one year to complete, is a practical tool-kit for immediate, sustained success on the job. It also provides excellent preparation for CSUN's Master of Business Administration (MBA), which is ranked among the nation's best part-time programs in the field by "U.S. News & World Report."
  
  Gain essential knowledge from a nationally recognized business-education leader
  
  All Graduate Certificate in Business Administration courses focus on foundational coursework in core business disciplines and are taught by faculty from CSUN's David Nazarian College of Business and Economics, which is listed among The Princeton Review's "Best Business Schools".
  
  Program features designed to meet the needs of working professionals
  
      Work-friendly schedule: Classes meet on campus one evening per week and every other Saturday morning.
      Cohort-format delivery: Students progress through the program as a group, ensuring on-time program completion and maximizing interaction and networking with faculty and fellow students.
      Exceptional support services: Students are assigned a program manager, who handles all administrative matters from application to graduation for each cohort, freeing students to concentrate on their coursework and careers.
      Pathway to an MBA: Validation studies have shown that students who excel in CSUN’s Graduate Certificate in Business Administration go on to excel in the university’s MBA program. So CSUN waives its MBA admission GMAT requirement for students who have earned a grade of B or better in each Graduate Certificate in Business Administration course.
- M.S. Communication Disorders and Sciences
  Many of us take for granted our ability to speak and comprehend language without issue. However, for adults and children with communication disorders that include autism, dyslexia, and aphasia, seemingly simple tasks can become quite difficult. Thankfully, help is available, and you can be among the caring professionals who bring hope and comfort. CSU Northridge currently offers three programs that will help you make a difference in the lives of adults and children with speech and language disorders… Online Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) •ASHA Accredited, 36-month program that utilizes a convenient distance-learning format to fit the lifestyle of a busy, working adult • Cohort model ensures on-time graduation, as well as an intimate and long-term network between students and faculty • Courses are taught by esteemed faculty with real-world experience in the field of communication disorders • Qualified candidates should have 30 units of approved undergraduate courses in Communicative Disorders (which may be satisfied through the Pre-CDS program) Online Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) Prerequisite Program •2-year, online Pre-CDS program for students from non-CDS or speech language pathology backgrounds who wish to complete required coursework for a master’s-level program in CDS • Students who complete this program may be automatically admitted to the online Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences • This prerequisite program also provides a great foundation for entry into the online Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Fieldwork Experience certificate program •Course topics include speech and language development, phonetics, voice and fluency disorders, speech science, and language disorders Online Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Fieldwork Experience Certificate Program •100-hour program allows you to study online at home for six weeks, then complete an 80-hour, six-week clinical field experience • Great fit for students with a bachelor's in communication disorder sciences (CDS) or speech-language pathology who have not been accepted to a master's-level program or do not wish to pursue a master's degree in these areas • Graduates of this program can expect increases in responsibilities, authority, and salary, whether in their current positions or in new opportunities • 10 graded Continuing Education Units (CEUs) • Available to California residents only Are you interested in learning more about how CSU Northridge can help you advance your career in the field of communication disorders? Complete the form on the right today and we will be in touch with you soon to further discuss your career and academic goals.
- Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)
  In just 12 weeks you can be a licensed SLPA, with elevated responsibilities, authority and salary!
  
  In California, one can become a licensed speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) and work as a para-professional in the field with an associate’s degree in the field from an approved community college or a bachelor’s degree in speech language pathology.
  
  Speech-language pathology college graduates without the master’s degree or the SLPA licensure can only work as registered speech-language pathology “aides,” earning significantly less income than their SLPA counterparts.
  
  A CSUN Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Fieldwork Experience creates access to the education and training needed by para-professionals in the speech-language pathology field who:
  
  •Wish to be licensed as Speech-Language Pathology Assistants in California
  •Possess a bachelor’s degree in Communications Disorder Sciences or Speech-Language Pathology,
  •Have not been accepted to a Master’s degree program
  •Do not wish to pursue the master’s degree in Communication Disorders or in Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Programs

Northridge, CA
- Master’s Degree Programs
  - Anthropology
  - Art
  - Biochemistry
  - Biological Sciences
  - Business Administration (MBA)
  - Chemistry
  - Computer Science
  - Counseling/Guidance
  - Educational Psychology
  - Electrical Engineering
  - Elementary Education
  - English
  - Family Environmental Sciences
  - Genetic Counseling
    The two-year program leads to a Master of Science degree in Genetic Counseling. Genetic counseling is a discussion process to provide information and support to individuals and families who have concerns about birth defects or genetic conditions. The program integrates intensive course work with clinical experience in a friendly and interactive environment.
  - Geography
  - Geology
  - Health Science
  - History
  - Humanities, Master of Arts
    CSU Northridge offers a Master of Arts in Humanities designed especially for educators, nonprofit directors, lawyers, executives, arts organization board members, and other “big thinkers” who seek to enhance their knowledge in the field of humanities. This program will challenge students to consider new ways of thinking and give them a fresh perspective of the world. Working professionals and individuals engaged in their community will be equipped for potential leadership roles in a variety of contexts upon graduation.
    
    This program is an exciting, life-changing experience, and not to be missed!
    
    Highlights of the Master of Arts in Humanities
    
    • May be completed in less than two years with classes meeting one evening per week and the occasional Saturday
    • 33-credit program draws from many disciplines represented in CSUN’s Colleges of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences
    • Students explore the origins of prominent ideas, dissect the works of influential authors, and gain insights to be shared with colleagues and friends
    •Cohort model ensures on-time graduation as well as the formation of long-term networking relationships between students and faculty
    •Possible career paths for graduates include teaching positions at community colleges and four-year institutions, museum curator, theater director, and nonprofit executive positions, among others
    
    Learn more about how the M.A. in Humanities can impact your current career and what doors it may open for you. Complete the form on the right today, and we will be in touch with you soon to discuss your career and academic goals.
  - Kinesiology/Physical Education
  - Linguistics
  - M.A. Psychology: Behavioral Clinical Psychology
    The Master’s degree in Psychology: Behavioral Clinical Psychology at CSU Northridge will give you the skills you need to practice as a behavioral psychologist. This unique program gives you a strong foundation in theory, science, and methodology, along with valuable training in applied behavior analysis (ABA). This blend of practical and classroom experience will allow you to become both a committed scientist and a caring clinician. After two years of study, you will be qualified to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam (BCBA).
    
    This program is unique because in addition to practical training in applied behavior analysis, science, and practice, students take advanced coursework in human development, pathways to psychopathology, family relations, and research methodology.
    
    Highlights of the Master’s Degree in Psychology: Behavioral Clinical Psychology
    
    • Earn your Master’s degree while you also complete the Behavior Analyst Certification Board approved course series
    • Become eligible to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam (BCBA) upon graduation
    • In addition to practical training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), you will take advanced coursework in human development, pathways to psychopathology, family relations, and research methodology
    • Designed specifically for working professionals such as yourself who desire a dual role as scientist-practitioners
    • Learn from distinguished faculty with many years of field experience
    •Strong emphasis on philosophy, theory, science, conceptual framework, methodology, and practice
    • You will be well-prepared to pursue a doctoral degree in a related field upon graduation
    
    Learn more about how CSU Northridge can help you advance your career in the field of psychology and applied behavior analysis. Complete the form on the right today and we will be in touch with you soon to further discuss your career and academic goals.
  - Mass Communications
  - Master of Arts in Music Industry Administration
    Request Information
    The Master of Arts in Music Industry Administration is a professional program for students desiring an advanced understanding of the evolving business needs of today’s music industry. This alternative to a traditional MBA focuses on the “business” of the music industry for those who want to administer, manage, and monetize a variety of music industry products and services. Students do not have to be musicians or play an instrument to enroll.
    Why the CSUN Master’s in Music Industry Administration?
    • CSUN is located near the heart of the nation’s professional entertainment community (only 30 minutes from Hollywood).
    • Distinguished music industry and business professionals teach all classes.
    • Tailored for working adults, this 33-unit program will take only 20 months to complete.
    • Classes will meet one evening per week plus the occasional Saturday.
    • Participants will enter and proceed through the course of study as a group (cohort), which facilitates networking and the formation of lasting professional connections.
    • The program is offered by the Department of Music in CSUN’s Mike Curb College of Arts, Media and Communication in collaboration with The Tseng College.
  - Master of Arts in Screenwriting Program
    A two year program tailored for working adults. We offer student opportunities in the heart of the motion picture and television industries.
  - Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis
    This two-year program enables participants to both earn the master's degree and become eligible to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination, which permits them to practice as board-certified behavior analysts. The program also provides graduates with the foundation necessary for pursuing doctoral degrees.
    Offered in collaboration with the Department of Psychology in CSUN's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and taught by distinguished practitioners, this program is unique in that – in addition to providing practical training in applied behavior analysis – it also requires advanced coursework in human development, psychopathology, family relations and research methodology. Participants learn how to conduct thorough behavioral assessments, implement and monitor evidence-based interventions, and consult with parents, caregivers and school personal while adhering to the profession's ethical guidelines.
    Designed to Meet the Needs of Working Professionals.
    • Work-friendly schedule: This program features evening and weekend courses which provides students with the convenience of course completion while continuing to advance in their career.
    • Cohort-format: Maximizes interaction with faculty and fosters the development of networking relationships with fellow participants.
    • Distinguished faculty: Taught by prominent experts in their respective disciplines, CSUN’s ABA program has been ranked first among comprehensive universities preparing students who later earn doctorate degrees in psychology by the National Science Foundation (CSUN University Advancement).
    Recent salary and job demand information from the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts indicates that there is considerable regional variation in BCBA salaries, which are generally highest in California.
  - Master of Science in Taxation
    Do you find yourself looking to make a bigger impact on the field of taxation? If so, we have the answer for you.
    
    The cutting-edge Master of Science in Taxation at CSU Northridge is an innovative program that integrates theory and practice to give you the skills necessary to move ahead in your career as a tax professional in only 18 months. Learn from leading practitioners in the field of taxation, and apply your new knowledge instantly through practical experience!
    
    Highlights of Our Master of Science in Taxation
    
    •Convenient course schedule (one evening per week and one Saturday per month). Students may join classes live in –person or through video conferencing technology.
    •No classes in session during the busy tax season, allowing you to focus entirely on your work obligations
    •
    • The program’s Tax Challenge Project, CSUN VITA Clinic, the Bookstein Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, and the student-run “Tax Development Journal” provide opportunities for learners to integrate theory with practice and gain valuable practical experience.
    • This fully accredited program meets California’s 150-hour requirement for CPA-licensure.
    • This program is taught in the cohort format, which maximizes opportunities for interaction with faculty as well as the development of valuable networking relationships with fellow tax professionals. Furthermore, enrollment in all courses is guaranteed.
    • Students in the program are supported by personalized career services offered through the Department's EY Center for Careers.
    • GMAT is not required.
    The ideal candidate would be a midcareer professional committed to pursuing a career in taxation. In addition, the candidate would exhibit ability to collaborate and work effectively with others. The candidate also must demonstrate previous academic success and a potential to excel in the rigorous program.
    
    Don’t wait another minute! Admission to this program is highly selective, so space is limited. Complete the form to learn more about our Master of Science in Taxation.
  - Materials Engineering
  - Mathematics
  - Mechanical Engineering
  - Music
  - Physical Therapy
  - Physics
  - Political Science
  - Secondary Education
  - Sociology
  - Spanish
  - Special Education
    Special Education is specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of students who are markedly different from most children. They may have mental, behavioral, physical, emotional or learning disabilities, ranging from mild to severe; they may be blind/visually handicapped or deaf/hearing impaired; they may be gifted. It differs from general education in its emphasis on individualized planning and instruction.
  - Theatre Arts/Drama
- Certificate
  - Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
    Designed for working professionals with undergraduate degrees in fields other than business, CSUN's Graduate Certificate in Business Administration program focuses on the development of essential business-management skills. Upon completion of the program, students will be capable of increasing productivity and achieving enhanced results in virtually any business environment.
    This program, which consists of six courses and takes only one year to complete, is a practical tool-kit for immediate, sustained success on the job. It also provides excellent preparation for CSUN's Master of Business Administration (MBA), which is ranked among the nation's best part-time programs in the field by "U.S. News & World Report."
    Gain essential knowledge from a nationally recognized business-education leader
    All Graduate Certificate in Business Administration courses focus on foundational coursework in core business disciplines and are taught by faculty from CSUN's David Nazarian College of Business and Economics, which is listed among The Princeton Review's "Best Business Schools".
    Program features designed to meet the needs of working professionals
    Work-friendly schedule: Classes meet on campus one evening per week and every other Saturday morning.
    Cohort-format delivery: Students progress through the program as a group, ensuring on-time program completion and maximizing interaction and networking with faculty and fellow students.
    Exceptional support services: Students are assigned a program manager, who handles all administrative matters from application to graduation for each cohort, freeing students to concentrate on their coursework and careers.
    Pathway to an MBA: Validation studies have shown that students who excel in CSUN’s Graduate Certificate in Business Administration go on to excel in the university’s MBA program. So CSUN waives its MBA admission GMAT requirement for students who have earned a grade of B or better in each Graduate Certificate in Business Administration course.
  - Mediation and Conflict Resolution
    Unfortunately, conflict is a constant occurrence in our society. If handled improperly it can become explosive, resulting in litigation or, worse yet, a trip to the local jail. Trained mediators and conflict resolution specialists can help diffuse difficult situations before they escalate. The Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution (MCR) at CSU Northridge provides you the skills you need to cope expertly in diverse environments.
    
    Highlights of the Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution
    • One-of-a-kind 100-hour program may be completed in just one semester, with evening and online classes to fit your busy lifestyle
    • Required practicum offers opportunities to actively engage with mediation providers in the community, giving you valuable first-hand experience
    • In 2010-2011, MCR students settled more than 200 litigated cases through Los Angeles Superior Court
    • Earn ten continuing education units (CEUs) upon completion and enhance your credentials in the job market
    • Receive a discounted membership to the Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA), which includes access to conferences, publications and networking opportunities with seasoned SCMA mediators
    
    Are you interested in learning more about how CSU Northridge can help you advance your career in the field of conflict resolution? Complete the form on the right today, and we will be in touch with you soon to discuss your career and academic goals.
Los Angeles, CA
- Bachelor’s Degree Programs
  - Bachelor of Arts in Public Sector Management: Off Campus
    CSUN’s Bachelor degree-completion in Public Sector Management (PSM) program is designed for working adults who have completed their lower-division General Education requirements and wish to earn their Bachelor of Arts degree. This 60-unit multidisciplinary program, which typically takes 2.5 years to complete, prepares graduates for career advancement by furthering competency in the following areas:
    ·         Budgeting and fiscal management
    ·         Critical thinking
    ·         Effective oral and written communication
    ·         Leadership, management and staff development
    ·         Problem solving and decision making
    ·         Team building
- Master’s Degree Programs
  - Master of Public Administration: Off Campus-Department of Mental Health
    Master of Public Administration (MPA)
    
    What to know about the CSUN Master of Public Administration.
    -CSUN is California’s leading provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -CSUN is the nation’s third-largest provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -We provide an Ivy League-quality educational experience (including a sound theoretical foundation, practical applications and exceptional student support services) at a state-university price.
    
    -Of the nation’s top four MPA providers, only CSUN offers both online and face-to-face instruction -- at the most off-campus locations.
    
    -Since 1985, more than 2,000 graduates have earned their MPA degrees at CSUN. Discover why they selected us by contacting us today.
    
    This MPA program is offered on-campus, off-campus (on-site cohort), and online. It is designed primarily for professionals currently employed in the public/ nonprofit sectors who wish to develop their management and administrative skills in order to excel in their current roles or to advance into positions of greater responsibility or leadership. The CSUN MPA program is also helpful for those who are pursuing careers in government or with international organizations.
    
    Because most CSUN MPA students are busy professionals, the design of this 36-unit program offers maximum convenience and flexibility with three delivery options: 1) on campus (open-enrollment format); 2) off-campus (cohort format); and 3) online (cohort format).
    
    In comparison with other degree programs in this field, the CSUN MPA offers a more interdisciplinary, multifaceted approach to problem solving that blends public sector theory with practice and emphasizes the application of critical skills to managerial and leadership functions. This practical focus is possible because many of the program's faculty members are both esteemed professors in their areas of specialization and active professionals who ensure that program content is current and relevant.
    
    CSUN also offers MPA-linked graduate certificate programs that not only expand and update professional capabilities in targeted areas but also offer credits that can be applied to satisfaction of the MPA degree requirements.
    This degree is offered in partnership with the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health and delivered at their central L.A. location. Students in the program will include employees of the department. Designed to accommodate residents of the area, this program connects students with local professionals.
  - Master of Public Administration: Off Campus-LAUSD
    Master of Public Administration (MPA)
    
    What to know about the CSUN Master of Public Administration.
    -CSUN is California’s leading provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -CSUN is the nation’s third-largest provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -We provide an Ivy League-quality educational experience (including a sound theoretical foundation, practical applications and exceptional student support services) at a state-university price.
    
    -Of the nation’s top four MPA providers, only CSUN offers both online and face-to-face instruction -- at the most off-campus locations.
    
    -Since 1985, more than 2,000 graduates have earned their MPA degrees at CSUN. Discover why they selected us by contacting us today.
    
    This MPA program is offered on-campus, off-campus (on-site cohort), and online. It is designed primarily for professionals currently employed in the public/ nonprofit sectors who wish to develop their management and administrative skills in order to excel in their current roles or to advance into positions of greater responsibility or leadership. The CSUN MPA program is also helpful for those who are pursuing careers in government or with international organizations.
    
    Because most CSUN MPA students are busy professionals, the design of this 36-unit program offers maximum convenience and flexibility with three delivery options: 1) on campus (open-enrollment format); 2) off-campus (cohort format); and 3) online (cohort format).
    
    In comparison with other degree programs in this field, the CSUN MPA offers a more interdisciplinary, multifaceted approach to problem solving that blends public sector theory with practice and emphasizes the application of critical skills to managerial and leadership functions. This practical focus is possible because many of the program's faculty members are both esteemed professors in their areas of specialization and active professionals who ensure that program content is current and relevant.
    
    CSUN also offers MPA-linked graduate certificate programs that not only expand and update professional capabilities in targeted areas but also offer credits that can be applied to satisfaction of the MPA degree requirements.
    This degree is offered in partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District and delivered at their downtown L.A. location. Students in the program will include employees of the department. Designed to accommodate residents of the area, this program connects students with local professionals.
Santa Clarita, CA
- Master’s Degree Programs
  - Master of Public Administration: Off Campus-College of the Canyons
    Master of Public Administration (MPA)
    
    What to know about the CSUN Master of Public Administration.
    -CSUN is California’s leading provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -CSUN is the nation’s third-largest provider of MPA degrees.
    
    -We provide an Ivy League-quality educational experience (including a sound theoretical foundation, practical applications and exceptional student support services) at a state-university price.
    
    -Of the nation’s top four MPA providers, only CSUN offers both online and face-to-face instruction -- at the most off-campus locations.
    
    -Since 1985, more than 2,000 graduates have earned their MPA degrees at CSUN. Discover why they selected us by contacting us today.
    
    This MPA program is offered on-campus, off-campus (on-site cohort), and online. It is designed primarily for professionals currently employed in the public/ nonprofit sectors who wish to develop their management and administrative skills in order to excel in their current roles or to advance into positions of greater responsibility or leadership. The CSUN MPA program is also helpful for those who are pursuing careers in government or with international organizations.
    
    Because most CSUN MPA students are busy professionals, the design of this 36-unit program offers maximum convenience and flexibility with three delivery options: 1) on campus (open-enrollment format); 2) off-campus (cohort format); and 3) online (cohort format).
    
    In comparison with other degree programs in this field, the CSUN MPA offers a more interdisciplinary, multifaceted approach to problem solving that blends public sector theory with practice and emphasizes the application of critical skills to managerial and leadership functions. This practical focus is possible because many of the program's faculty members are both esteemed professors in their areas of specialization and active professionals who ensure that program content is current and relevant.
    
    CSUN also offers MPA-linked graduate certificate programs that not only expand and update professional capabilities in targeted areas but also offer credits that can be applied to satisfaction of the MPA degree requirements
  - Master of Social Work: Off Campus-College of the Canyons
    Students attend classes year round. Classes are taught three at a time, in 16-week semesters. Students complete a total of 21 classes (63 graduate units). While CSUN's MSW is a 60-unit degree, students who participate in off-campus cohorts may be required to complete additional units to meet the specific Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fieldwork requirements for each cohort/location. Classes are held on Wednesdays (COC) or Thursdays (Ventura) from 4-10 pm, and includes up to four additional Saturdays during the Summer terms. Students must be available for field placement Monday-Friday, from 9am-6pm. Evening and weekend field placements are unavailable. When field internship hours remain incomplete beyond the first and second years of the program students are required to complete their remaining field hours in the final year of the program. It is not possible for students to complete a field internship at their place of employment.
    Beginning the Fall semester of the first year, students are required to complete a minimum of 16 hours of field placement internship per week. Field placement days and times are determined by the CSUN MSW Field Education Department, based on agency needs, student schedules and employer approval. If offered admission to the CSUN MSW Program, students are required to successfully complete a field internship interview on campus. All applicants are advised to review the Field Education Manual and Student Manual for the policies governing the field internship and academic program prior to applying to the CSUN MSW Program.
Ventura, CA
- Master’s Degree Programs
  - Master of Social Work: Off Campus-Ventura
    The mission, goals, and objectives of the Master of Social work program at CSUN are to prepare advanced professional practitioners to address the needs of the greater Los Angeles and Southern California regions and to enhance social services for people in urban environments through a strengths-based, community-oriented, urban family practice model while promoting social justice with special sensitivity to the multicultural and multinational population. Our mission, goals, and objectives are woven throughout the curriculum. We prepare graduates to work successfully with a variety of client systems.
    The MSW program is grounded in a strengths-based framework to promote the well-being of urban families and communities. Our curriculum incorporates content on the profession's history, purposes, and philosophy. It emphasizes critical and creative thinking that will enable our graduates to initiate, adapt, and evaluate interventions for urban families while remaining alert to relevant national and global issues. The program trains professionals to practice ethically and competently, and to integrate social work knowledge, process, and values into all professional activities.
    
    Learning options close to home and work
    In this three-year part-time program, students attend classes in Ventura, California. The schedule is designed around working professionals so classes are held in the evening.
    High Quality Education
    • Esteemed faculty - Courses are led by distinguished CSUN faculty members who are experts in their fields. No matter which learning option – online or off-campus – students choose, they receive outstanding instructional quality together with personalized support, at a state-university price. In fact, CSUN’s online program can prepare students in less time, and can cost half as much, as a private university program.
    • Outstanding support - Students admitted to the program are guaranteed enrollment in all required courses. What’s more, the complete and on-going support of a designated Program Manager, from application to graduation, frees them to focus on their studies and their field placement requirements.
    • Cohesive learning community –Students enter and proceed through this program as a cohort, which encourages the development of a supportive network of fellow industry professionals. The cohort design not only guarantees enrollment in all required courses but also results in on-time program completion rates of up to 85% or higher.
    •Field education - Field education provides the guided practice needed to prepare MSW students to become advanced social work professionals. CSUN faculty will help facilitate the placement of students in approved settings that are within a reasonable distance from the student’s home or work.

General Info

Facts & Figures

Institutional Accrediting Agency:
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission
Total Online Enrollment:
20,000-39,999
Carnegie Classification:
Master's College or University I

California State University, Northridge

Where Is California State University Northridge Located?

Enrolling at CSUN

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Online Degree Programs

Online MS in Assistive Technology Studies & Human Services

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Your Next Steps with CSUN

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

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Certificate

Northridge, CA

Master’s Degree Programs

Certificate

Los Angeles, CA

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Master’s Degree Programs

Santa Clarita, CA

Master’s Degree Programs

Ventura, CA

Master’s Degree Programs

Institutional Accrediting Agency:

Total Online Enrollment:

Carnegie Classification: