FAQs

The decision to apply to a graduate program is highly personal and is dependent on your interests and career goals.  Here are some suggested steps to help you get started with the process:

1. Decide what you want to do when you complete the degree. Make sure that the degree you pursue will lead to that goal. The program websites also include information about program goals and outcomes.
2. Ascertain whether the career trajectory you have planned has specific credential or degree requirements and make sure that the program you choose offers the credential or degree that you will need to work in your chosen profession.
3. You may visit Explore Our Programs to learn more about the programs the College offers.
4. If you have academic and professional goals that would allow you to select more than one program, get into the specifics of the programs and make a chart of the differences between them. Refer back to your goals for completing the degree when making the decision.
5. After thoroughly reviewing the information available online, please contact the Graduate Studies Office or the appropriate Program Coordinator or Advisor if you have questions. You may also decide to attend an Information Session.

Visit the GSO Tips & Tutorials for Applying page for an application flow chart, advice on how to be a competitive applicant, and free resources and tips on the statement of purpose, letters of recommendations, and resume.

You may pursue more than one program, but not at the same time unless you are in one of the combined advanced credential/graduate programs:

• EdS in School Psychology with PPS Credential (PPS cannot be done separately)
• MS in School Counseling with PPS Credential (PPS cannot be done separately)
• MS  Educational Technology and Media Leadership with Teacher Librarian Services Credential (Credential may be done separately by those who have a teaching or services credential; MS may also be done separately)
• MA in Educational Administration and Preliminary Administrative Services Credential

Please note that CSULB does not offer a combined teaching credential (elementary, secondary or special education) and graduate degree option. If you are interested in earning a teaching credential to teach elementary, middle or high school or in a special education classroom, please contact the Student Success Advising Center (formerly Teacher Preparation Advising Center).

No, CSULB does not offer a combined teaching credential (elementary, secondary or special education) and graduate degree option. Some of the graduate programs require a teaching credential/teaching experience. If you are interested in earning a teaching credential to teach elementary, middle or high school or in a special education classroom, please contact the Student Success Advising Center (formerly Teacher Preparation Advising Center).

General Admissions Process

• Use Cal State Apply to file all application materials before the deadline and pay a non-refundable $70 fee 
• Use MyCED to submit program application materials before the deadline (see program website for specific documents required)
• Submit your official transcripts to Enrollment Services
• Await notification

Please see our Application Process page for information on the application process. To view the application deadlines, please see our Program Application Deadlines website.

CSULB’s Enrollment Services will review your university application and transcripts and ensure that applicants meet the CSU minimum qualifications to be considered for admission. Program application materials submitted through MyCED are reviewed by faculty admissions committees for admissions consideration. Some programs invite students for an interview, while other programs do not. Please see the Program Application Deadlines website for the specific program to which you are applying for specific details. Please note that admission to the University is a separate process, and you cannot be admitted to the University without also being admitted to a program. 

For technical assistance with Cal State Apply, please contact the Cal State Apply Help Desk:  (857) 304-2087, CalStateApply@liaisoncas.com or visit the Cal State Apply Applicant Help Center.  Cal State Apply Application Support is available Monday – Friday, 6AM – 5PM PT.

No, the GRE is not required to apply. 

Most programs operate on an annual cycle for admission for Fall admission only. Some programs do admit for both Fall and Spring semesters. Please see the Program Application Deadlines website for more information.

We do not have any programs that admit in the Summer. 

Admission to all of our programs in competitive. Contact the Graduate Studies Office for additional information. 

Our graduate programs are designed to be completed within two to three years. The length of study depends on the number of units required for the program, as well as whether you study full or part-time. Some programs require full-time study, while others offer both options.  Please refer to the FAQ and Program Requirements websites for the program you are interested in applying for. Program websites may be found on the Program Application Deadlines website.

Please visit the Tuition and Fees website to view current costs. The cost of the program will be determined by the number of units taken (6 or less/7 or more per semester) and the number of semesters needed. Program costs range from $8,565 to $26,706 for California residents depending on the number of units required for the program you are interested in applying for. Please contact the Graduate Studies Office for assistance with estimation. You may also visit the Financing your Education page. 

Please visit the Financing your Education page for additional information about funding opportunities. 

Graduate applicants are eligible to apply and should file a FAFSA application. You may also visit the CSULB Financial Aid website.

The College of Education also has Scholarships.

A limited set of graduate assistantships may be available for special projects and research in specific programs. Additionally, students may also apply for student worker positions available across campus. Please see the Career Development Center in Brotman Hall or the Career Development Center website.

Once admitted to a program, each student is assigned a faculty advisor who will guide students’ academic plans. Part-time study involves two or fewer courses per semester (six units or below), while full-time study constitutes three or more courses (nine units or above).

Most graduate-level courses in the College of Education are offered once per week in the evenings or on weekends, in order to accommodate working professionals. The standard evening course times set by the University are 4:00- 6:45PM or 7:00- 9:45PM on one night per week. Some courses may be offered starting at 5:00PM or 6:00PM, and some have additional out-of-classroom work. Some programs offer courses on Saturdays. Additionally, there are a few programs that offer some hybrid courses where instruction is both in-person and online.

Check with the program to which you are applying for specific details.

Once admitted to a program, each student is assigned a faculty advisor who will guide students’ academic plans. Most programs offer classes once per academic year, and some classes are sequenced or offered in a cohort model. It is important to meet with your faculty advisor regularly to stay on-track with completing requirements. 

The exit requirements consist of either a comprehensive examination, thesis, or project. Please refer to the program website for the program you are interested in applying for. Program websites may be found on the Program Application Deadlines website.