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There are a lot of acronyms and unfamiliar terms throughout the website; can you define some of them?
Sure! You’re right; there are a lot of terms that could be confusing so here’s a brief glossary:
- Contract Training: refers to the training that is defined by a specific contract. Most often this training that responds to a need that an organization identifies and then contracts CSUDH College of Continuing and Professional Education to administer.
- Credit: refers to university credit or the courses that offer university credit.
- Non-credit: refers to courses that do not offer university credit. Sometimes referred to as: Professional Development, personal Enrichment, or Continuing Education.
- Open University: is a way for students not currently admitted to CSUDH to enroll in courses offered by the university. Students who enroll through Open University will receive Open University Special Session Credit. You are able to apply up to 24 units of Open University Special Session credit toward a baccalaureate degree or six units toward a graduate degree.
- Personal Development: refers to courses that provide tools or skills that enhance personal growth and are not necessarily career oriented.
- Professional Development: refers to credit and non-credit courses or programs that are designed to keep your job skills up-to-date, enhance your knowledge and job skills to advance your career, or give you the knowledge and skills needed to make a career change.
- Continuing Education: refers to courses, programs or organized learning experience usually taken after a degree is obtained to enhance personal and professional goals.
We make a great effort to define the acronyms throughout this catalog, here are a few that you may see more often:
- CEU: Continuing Education Unit
- CSUDH: California State University Dominguez Hills
What is a Professional Development (non-credit) course?
Our professional development (non-credit) courses are designed specifically to provide individuals and industry a quick, concentrated way to acquire a solid core of knowledge and practical skills in specific fields. These opportunities include seminars, workshops, and certificate programs. Many professional development courses offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Can I get a grade or university credit for Profession Development courses?
No, but Continuing Education Units are permanent record of attendance in Professional Development non-credit programs. They are awarded by The American Council on Education (ACE) and administered through CSUDH. CEUs can enhance your resume and provide another opportunity to showcase your commitment to your processional development. CEUs for specific professions are also available for select programs.
Can I take a University credit course if I’m not enrolled at CSUDH?
Yes, Open University provides an opportunity for those people who are not currently admitted to and/or registered at CSUDH to enroll in most courses offered by the regular university. CSUDH’s Open University program allows enrollment in regular university credit classes on a “space available” basis, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department chair. The registration process is easy and admission to the university is not required.
How do I know if a program is right for me? How do I determine which courses to take?
On most of our program descriptions, please review the "Who Should Attend" section to learn about expectations and career relevance; in addition, the "What You Will Learn" section identifies course objectives and outcomes.
Take a look at your program of interest to see if those descriptions meet your needs and educational goals.
For working professionals, your employer may also provide guidance that can refine your career path and program decisions.
How do I get reimbursed from my employer?
- Before You Get Started: Make sure the program you wish to enter is covered by your company’s tuition reimbursement program; some programs may not be covered.
- While You Are Enrolled: Bring any company-requested forms for signature to class.
- After You Are Finished: Save proof of course attendance; request transcripts and sign-off forms if needed.
Does CSUDH offer Corporate Discounts?
Yes. Please contact Kim McNutt at kmcnutt@csudh.edu for group discounts.
What if the course cancels?
You have the option of receiving a refund or transferring your fee to another program.
Can I register on-site on the first day of the course?
Open University:
Yes — For most courses, if space is available; however, we recommend that you register as soon as possible to insure a "seat". Plus, your advanced commitment helps to give the course adequate enrollment, so the class won't be canceled unnecessarily.
Certificate Programs and OSHA Training Institute Education Center:
No — Course registration is required a minimum of four (4) business days before a course start date, to ensure enough time for your student account/access to be created.
How do I obtain a transcript?
Transcripts are the official means of verifying completion of courses and conferral of degrees. Transcripts contain details such as course titles, units attempted, and final grades for each term of attendance at CSUDH. All transcript requests are processed through Parchment, an encrypted and secure service. There is an additional $2.45 service charge per transcript. We do not accept faxed or mailed copies of transcript requests.
I am an employee of California State University. Is the tuition fee waiver applicable to Continuing & Professional Education certificates or degree programs?
Employees are eligible for the fee waiver program if a program is funded by the state. Fee waivers apply to CSU general fund courses (fall and spring) only.
All eligible employees may enroll in a maximum of 2 courses or 6 units, whichever is greater, per semester. (If enrolled in more than 2 courses or 6 units, employees shall pay the difference at regular enrollment rates.)
Is CSUDH an accredited institution? Are all the programs accredited?
Accreditation is at the institutional level, not the course level. This applies to both credit and non-credit courses. CSUDH as an institution, is fully accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
For more information, visit: CSUDH Accreditation
What if I have additional questions?
Speak with one of our knowledgeable and friendly representatives:
Phone: (310) 243-3741, Option 2
Email: learn@csudh.edu
Hours: M-F 9am-5pm