B.S. in Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Offered by CSULB in Lancaster, CA
FAQ
1. How is this degree program different than other degree programs?
This is a degree completion program that you will complete without interruption. The program has been set up in an alternative format based on the cohort model, with convenient scheduling, and is offered in the Antelope Valley.
2. What is the application process?
Apply online through CSU Mentor (http://www.csumentor.edu/) beginning October 1, 2016. A $55 application fee must accompany each application—you may use your credit card for this purpose. The last day to apply is March 22, 2017.
3. What else is required to be considered?
Once you apply through CSU Mentor, you must send official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended to the CSULB admissions office. All required application materials must be received no later than April 7, 2017.
4. Can I get financial aid?
Students who are admitted into CSULB and are full-time students participating in this program are qualified to apply for financial aid through main campus. CCPE Undergraduate Programs are eligible for: Pell Grant; Cal Grant A or B; Direct Subsidized Loan; Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Note that students are NOT eligible for the State University Grant, but ARE eligible for the Cal Grant A or B. Veterans may also receive their GI Bill benefits. For more information regarding financial aid, click here: http://www.csulb.edu/depts/enrollment/financial_aid/ or contact Stacy Schupmann at [email protected] or (562) 985-8403.
5. How long is the program?
The program can be completed in two and a half years, provided you have no remedial requirements.
6. What if I have already completed one (or more) of the lower or upper division courses listed in the curriculum? Do I have to take them again?
It is possible that this could happen in the first year of the program. If you have already completed courses listed in the curriculum, and the course is articulated with CSULB, you will not be required to pay for or retake the course.
7. How much does the program cost?
The cost per unit is $495. The total program cost with 68 units is $33,660. This does not include housing or meals, which is not available at our campus.
8. Will you help me find a job when I complete my program?
CSULB has a very active Career Development Center (http://www.careers.csulb.edu) with a host of services. As a registered CSULB student, you can access these services and receive assistance with resume creation, job fairs, internships, job searches, and career counseling.
9. Will I be competing with all the other CSULB transfer students?
No. The only students that you will be competing with are other Engineering degree completion program applicants. The admission requirements for this program are different from the main campus's requirements and will ensure that you are fully prepared to participate in this cohort-based model. Although you must be admitted by CSULB prior to entering the program, you will not be competing with traditional freshman or transfer students.
10. Will every student in the program get an internship?
CSULB facilitates internship opportunities, but we cannot guarantee that every student will obtain an internship. Students must qualify and compete for available intern positions. We will provide students access to industry/government representatives who will be able to discuss the available programs and qualifying requirements. We will also provide networking opportunities and recommendations via our industry contacts. In the end, however, it will be up to each student to qualify, apply, and make the appropriate impression on employers.
11. Will I get to graduate and walk in the regular CSULB graduation ceremony?
Yes! All Engineering degree completion students are considered fully matriculated CSULB students; therefore, all students who complete the program will receive a diploma and be eligible to walk in the graduation ceremony.
12. What is the minimum GPA requirement?
The minimum GPA required for admission is 2.5 and is applied to all transferable course work attempted. Additionally, a minimum grade of C is required of all classes transferred.
13. Do students with more upper division science/math coursework (organic chemistry, genetics, differential equations, etc.) have an edge?
The rank of an applicant is dependent on the quality of the applicant pool. The candidates deemed the best prepared to succeed will be ranked higher.
14. How important are extracurricular activities such as research and volunteer work?
Extracurricular activities contribute to the overall quality of an application. Of significance to engineering majors is participation in a professional society.
15. If a student receives a C in a course, is a repeat recommended? Or should they move on to upper division to illustrate competence in subject area?
In order for a transferable course to be accepted, a minimum grade of C is required.
16. How is English proficiency evaluated?
English proficiency is critical for those seeking a career in engineering. Student English proficiency is evaluated during the first semester after transfer (first semester junior year) via the GWAR (Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement) Proficiency Examination (GPE). Students failing the examination are required to take additional course work in order to graduate.
17. Does your institution grant math, science, or engineering-specific scholarships?
The program does not currently have a unique scholarship program; however, there are scholarships available that are funded by our industry partners specific to our program.
18. Does your institution have any “Transfer Admission Guarantee” programs?
The program maintains a unique application pool through CSU Mentor. Students applying to the program are ranked for admission within the context of the quality of the applicant pool.
19. Are both program accredited, and by whom?
Yes, both the Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering programs are accredited by WASC and the ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission.
