California University of Pennsylvania

The University

Guided by its special mission in science and technology, California University of Pennsylvania offers professional, career-focused programs in the arts and sciences, technologies and education that engage students in applied and active learning. At Cal U, highly trained faculty members, caring staff, and exceptional facilities combine to help every student prepare for a meaningful career. A proud member of Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education, Cal U serves more than 7,500 undergraduate and graduate students.

Location

The University is located on 294 acres in the borough of California, Pa., about 35 miles south of Pittsburgh on the banks of the Monongahela River.

Majors and Degrees

California University of Pennsylvania offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and concentrations, and 95 graduate and professional programs, on campus and 100% online. Academic programs are offered through Cal U's three Colleges and its School of Graduate Studies and Research.

Eberly College of Science and Technology

Cal U's Eberly College of Science and Technology offers scientific, technological, and career-oriented degree programs to prepare students for the complex and evolving demands of the industrial, business and healthcare fields, as well as for further study in graduate and professional schools.

To help students develop personally and professionally, Cal U has designed an enriching curriculum built around two education components. The general education component equips students with a well-rounded education to maximize their effectiveness in the workplace and as a socially responsible citizen. The professional component includes the critical technical, scientific, business and support courses that form the foundation for immediate employment or advanced study in their chosen field.

Laboratory and workshop experiences supplement a foundation in theory, and many of their programs provide active learning and internship opportunities that integrate real-world experience with classroom learning.

The Eberly College of Science and Technology includes these departments: Applied Engineering and Technology; Biological and Environmental Sciences; Business and Economics; Chemistry and Physics; Earth Science; Math, Computer Science and Information Systems; Nursing; and Professional Studies.

College of Education and Human Services

Cal U's College of Education and Human Services offers career-oriented degree programs to prepare students for the complex demands of the education and human services fields, or for advanced-level study.

Teacher education is the historical mission of California University of Pennsylvania, and the school offers professional certification and degree programs in a variety of fields, including early childhood/elementary, middle level and secondary education, special education, and technology education. 

In addition, the departments of TRIO and Academic Services, Communication Disorders, Counselor Education, Health Science, Exercise Science and Sport Studies, and Social Work provide professional degrees, certifications and certificate programs.

By combining classroom learning and field experiences, the College of Education and Human Services helps to create a dynamic community of learners and self-assured graduates who are ready to make an impact on their chosen professions. All programs leading to licensure are accredited by their appropriate national organizations.

College of Liberal Arts

Cal U's College of Liberal Arts furthers student intellectual development in the arts, humanities and social sciences through the departments of Art and Languages; Communications, Design and Culture; Criminal Justice; English; History, Politics and Society; Music and Theatre; and Psychology.

In addition, the College houses the University Honors Program and offers a degree program in liberal studies, an interdisciplinary minor in leadership studies, and a minor in women's studies.

Liberal arts programs at Cal U give students a solid academic foundation in their chosen discipline while fostering skills that employers find essential in any field -- critical and analytical thinking, problem solving, communication skills, teamwork, and individual initiative. These programs foster creativity and self-expression as they help students to see connections -- between the past and the present, the world we know and the ones we imagine, the local community and our global society.

School of Graduate Studies and Research

Cal U's School of Graduate Studies and Research offers professional doctorates, master's degrees, certifications and certificate programs. Both on-campus and online options are available to add to students’ knowledge, enhance their resumes, or advance their careers.

Evening classes, accelerated programs and Cal U Global Online, the University's 100% online learning community, make it easier for students to balance earning a degree or other credential with career and family demands. Dual degree and certificate programs, as well as professional doctorates, help students target advanced learning to meet their professional needs.

Highly qualified faculty in Cal U's School of Graduate Studies lead programs that combine rigorous coursework with practical, career-focused experience. Caring staff in the Graduate Admissions and Global Online offices work with students step by step to help them achieve their educational goals as quickly and affordably as possible.

Costs

In 2016-2017, undergraduate tuition at Cal U was $7,238 for Pennsylvania residents and $10,858 for out-of-state residents. The average cost of room and board for an incoming freshman was $10,086, and fees were $2,908. Books, travel expenses, and other supplies are additional.

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. A variety of merit-based scholarships also are available.

Faculty

Cal U is a student-centered University that is committed above all to academic excellence and intellectual rigor. Its stellar faculty is dedicated to helping students take important steps toward achieving their career goals. Among Cal U's professors 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.

Four-Year Graduation Plan

Cal U's Four-Year Graduation Plan helps students stay on track to complete a bachelor's degree in four years. First-year students agree to stick to one 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 an academic plan and keep track of their progress.

Career Services

Cal U's Career and Professional Development Center 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. The Career Center staff maintain connections with the region's employers, who regularly visit campus for networking events, job fairs, and career training programs.

Leadership Training

Cal U prepares students to take the lead, no matter what field of study they choose to pursue. 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. And when students practice effective leadership in class, through community service, and as members of clubs and organizations, the results are documented on an official Activities Transcript.

Student Government

Cal U's Student Government is the official governing body for students. The forum establishes channels of communication between students and administrators/faculty, and it sponsors programs and activities to enrich campus life.

Student Government is part of the Student Association Inc. (SAI), the nonprofit corporation owned and operated by students of Cal U. Along with serving the student body, SAI and Student Government provide opportunities for students to develop leadership and community service skills.

Admissions Requirements

An incoming freshman who want to be considered for admission to Cal U as a degree-seeking student must submit an application for admission with a $25 application fee, official high school transcripts or GED credential, and official SAT or ACT scores. Applicants will be considered for admission to Cal U after careful review of high school record, class rank, academic coursework, and SAT/ACT scores. Attention is given to personal essay, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation, if submitted.

Graduate admission varies by program. Information is available at calu.edu.

Application and Information

Applicants may apply online at calu.edu or may contact the Office of Admissions.

California University of Pennsylvania

c/o Undergraduate Admissions - Box 94

250 University Ave.

California, PA 15419

Phone: 1-888-412-0479 (toll-free)

Email: admissions@calu.edu

Office hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday