California University of Pennsylvania - Overview
Students Are the First Priority at California University of Pennsylvania
At California University of Pennsylvania (Cal U), students are the first priority. Cal U facilitates learning both in the classroom and through day-to-day experiences as it helps students to build character and prepare for careers. Because the core values of integrity, civility, and responsibility are integrated into academic and campus activities, Cal U students graduate with both diplomas and good character.
Cal U Has Been Named Among the Best Northeastern Colleges and Universities For 7 Consecutive Years
For 7 consecutive years, "The Princeton Review" has named California University of Pennsylvania among the Best Northeastern Colleges and Universities, citing its affordable cost, friendly atmosphere, and state-of-the-art facilities. "The Princeton Review" also recognizes Cal U as one of the nation's most eco-friendly "green" colleges.
Cal U Faculty Members Stay Focused on Teaching, Motivating, and Inspiring Their Students
At Cal U, the faculty members do more than just teach. Professors give students the skills and real-world experiences that lead to success. More than 80 percent of Cal U faculty members have doctoral or other terminal-level degrees. Among them are Fulbright Scholars and recipients of grants from prestigious organizations such as the National Science Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities. But at the end of the day, faculty members say that teaching, motivating, and inspiring students is what they do best.
At Cal U, more than 120 Undergraduate Programs Lead to Bachelor's and Associate Degrees
California University of Pennsylvania offers 120 undergraduate majors/concentrations and nearly 50 graduate programs. An undergraduate can earn a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science, Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science. A complete listing of majors and certificate programs is available on the university's website.
Both Sides of Cal U's 4-Year Graduation Plan Carry Responsibilities
Cal U's 4-Year Graduation Plan helps students stay on track to complete a bachelor's degree in 4 years. First-year students agree to stick to a single major, take a full course load, and maintain an acceptable grade-point average. In turn, the university provides advising and counseling services every semester, and the Academic Scheduling Center helps students develop academic plans and keep track of their progress.
The Career Services Office Works Hard from Day One to Well Past Graduation
"Building Character. Building Careers." At Cal U, that isn't just a catch phrase. From the very first day, Cal U's office of Career Services helps students prepare for the future. The Career Advantage program guides students as they make choices about academic majors, explore career options, gain experience, and transition into the workforce. Career Services continues to provide assistance after graduation, as well. Lifelong networking opportunities, training, and interview preparation are among the many benefits available to all Cal U alumni.
Leadership Training Puts Cal U Students a Step Ahead
Cal U prepares students to take the lead, no matter what field of study they choose to pursue. The Cal U "Leader for Life" process, available to every student, instills the principles found in the worldwide best seller "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," by Dr. Stephen R. Covey. Students can add a leadership minor that teaches them to think critically about global issues and learn to become leaders in education, business, science or the arts. As the world's first FranklinCovey Leadership University, Cal U encourages students to practice effective leadership in class, through community service, and as members of clubs and organizations.
California University Is Part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
California University is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Each summer the Board of Governors of the State System sets its tuition for the academic year that begins in August. Undergraduate tuition at Cal U is based on a full-time load of 12 to 18 credits, and students carrying additional credit hours are charged more. More detailed information about tuition and fees for Pennsylvania residents, non-Pennsylvania residents, and international students is available on the university's website.
California University Offers Multiple Pathways to Financial Aid
More than 90 percent of all students attending Cal U receive some type of financial aid. The federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), along with the cost of education, determines whether a student is eligible for need-based assistance. To receive financial aid, students must complete the FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA. These forms can be obtained from high school guidance counselors, public libraries, or from the financial aid office of a college or university, including the Financial Aid Office at California University.
Residents on the Main Campus Live a "Suite Life," then Move Up to Garden-style Apartments
Campus life at California University of Pennsylvania is among the best in the nation. The main campus features 6 air-conditioned residence halls with all the comforts of home, including computer labs, cable TV, high-speed Internet, laundry rooms, and much more. Instead of living in a typical "dorm" room, students enjoy the "suite life" in residence units of 1 to 4 rooms, typically sharing bathrooms with no more than one other person each. Rooms in the main campus residence halls range from about $3,000 to $4,400 per person. Housing on the south campus features garden-style apartments and is reserved primarily for upperclassmen.
Getting Involved Is Easy; The Payoff Is a Great College Experience
The key to having a great college experience is getting involved, and at Cal U, being a part of the action is easy. More than 110 student clubs and organizations let students participate in music, sports, community service, and so much more. Because Cal U recognizes the value of activities outside the classroom, participation in clubs, volunteer activities, and service projects is recorded on an official Activities Transcript that can be shared with potential employers. When it's time for a job interview, the Activities Transcript is a perfect accompaniment to a resume and academic transcript. In addition to clubs and organizations, Cal U's Student Activities Board plans a full schedule of activities on campus, from first-run movies and comedy shows to concerts by popular artists. Cal U's sports teams are at the top of their game, with 7 varsity teams for men and 9 for women. With championships in football, softball, hockey, basketball, baseball, swimming, soccer, and volleyball, Cal U men's and women's Vulcan teams are a force in the NCAA Division II.
Awesome Facilities Serve the Students at California University
The Natali Student Center, located in the heart of the main campus, houses the student information center, dining facilities, movie theater, convenience store, food court, bookstore, ATM machines, and a variety of student organizations, including the Commuter Center and the university's radio (WCAL) and television (CUTV) stations. The university's recreational complex, Roadman Park and SAI Farm, is located just over a mile away, on the south campus. Cal U students and Vulcan fans come to Roadman Park for football games and track meets in Adamson Stadium. The park also includes newly constructed tennis courts; baseball, softball, rugby, and soccer fields; picnic areas; concessions stands; and restrooms. SAI Farm includes a meeting space, a cross country course, and plenty of green space for outdoor recreation.