Frequently Asked Questions
Are the courses 100% online? Yes, 100%. There is no need to come to campus, unless of course you want to attend the traditional graduation ceremony.
Do I have to login at a certain time on specific days? No. The courses are fully asynchronous allowing you the flexibility to login each week at your convenience. Some students complete their work during their lunch hour. Others complete weekly requirements on a Saturday morning, and some students complete the work late at night after the kids have gone to bed. One key to success is to stay on track and communicate regularly with faculty and other students via threaded discussion and e-mail.
Are the programs accredited? California University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Association. The programs are approved by the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors. The graduate degree programs are offered by California University of Pennsylvania which has been accredited for over 40 years and in existence since 1852. The programs have undergone the same approval process of all academic programs in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
How many students are accepted? 30-35 students are accepted for each cohort.
What is a cohort? A cohort is a group of students that starts and finishes a program at the same time.
How often do new cohorts begin? Cohorts begin at various times throughout the academic year. Please check the program website for the next available start date.
How do I apply? Go to our application webpage to apply online.
Is financial aid available? Yes. Financial aid is available through the California University Financial Aid Office. Many students receive a National Stafford loan which usually covers the cost of the entire program. Several students submit for partial or complete reimbursement through their employers. Credit cards are also accepted.
Have the faculty been trained to teach in an online classroom? Yes, all faculty teaching in the program have taken an eCertification course preparing them to use the technology and showing them how to teach in a web-based environment. Faculty frequently discuss web-based course pedagogy and curriculum design with each other and various other professionals.
What are the computer hardware and software requirements to access the courses? The eCollege requirements are found by clicking here (a new window will pop up). You can even run a Browser Test to see if your software is compatible. For Blackboard, please visit the online support center by clicking here (a new window will pop up). Technical requirements are listed under Blackboard 7.0 in the left menu.
How much are books and materials? Books and other materials average $100-$200 per semester. Often, these expenses can be covered by the financial aid loan.
If accepted, how many hours a week would I need to commit to the programs? Typical hour requirements for a course average the same time commitment as a typical three credit on-campus course. This may vary depending on course requirements.
As a student, is there technical support available if I have a technical problem? Yes. There is a free Help Desk for both eCollege and Blackboard that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For eCollege please call toll free 1-866-945-5280 and for Blackboard please cal toll-free 1-866-434-8878.