The CalSouthern Learning Process

Distance Learning is learning that takes place away from the traditional classroom. It consists of communication between student and faculty that occurs electronically. When you become a student, you are authorized to access the student-to-instructor system that we use. This enables you to work with your Faculty Mentor and communicate with fellow students to complete your course requirements.

Since CalSouthern is an online university, there are no class schedules. You can fit your coursework into your busy schedule by satisfying course requirements within the term of semester. You will work closely with your Faculty Mentor to assure that all work is completed, but you never have to attend a classroom on campus.

You can start at any time! Enrollment is continuous because we begin courses on the first day of every month. Simply submit your online application for admission. After processing, we will contact you regarding the status.

Yes. As part of the admission process, we will evaluate your prior academic work and award credit earned at appropriately accredited colleges or universities.

The content, subject matter, and textbooks are the same as campus-based courses. However, we stress active self-learning, which consists of learning and applying the course material to real-world experiences that are meaningful and relevant to you. In addition, your Faculty Mentors add their professional experiences to your learning process.

Our programs are designed for motivated adult students with busy lives. You can enroll in two courses at a time. With continuous enrollment, you can earn:

• 30 credits to complete an Associates degree in five 16-week semesters (20 months or less).
• 30 credits to complete a Bachelors degree in five 16-week semesters (20 months or less).
• 36 credits to complete the MBA degree in two years or less.
• 48 credits to complete the MA in Psychology. 2.5 years on average (no less than 1 year).
• 60 credits to complete the Doctorate in Psychology. 3 years on average (no less than 2 years, no more than 4 years.)

Our experienced Faculty Mentors will serve as your instructors to assist you in reaching your educational goals. One-on-one contact with a Faculty Mentor is similar to having your very own highly qualified tutor. Many traditional universities simply do not offer these advantages.

Yes. The Library provides CalSouthern students with assistance in utilizing the reference database, library catalog, and other learning resources. Students can access descriptive listings of top print sources in various academic disciplines and links to Internet resources. Interlibrary loan and document delivery services help students obtain materials that are typically unavailable at local libraries. A librarian is available to assist with your needs as well.

Students can obtain textbooks from any source of their choice. However, the university has an agreement with an online book supplier to help students acquire course materials in a timely and efficient manner. For more information, check the Virtual Bookstore section of our website to obtain your textbooks and other materials.

At CalSouthern, you, as the student, are the focal point of the learning process. We will be here every step of the way to guide and assist you because you are our top priority. In addition, CalSouthern is "user friendly." Our Faculty Mentors provide continual guidance to you throughout every course of your degree so you are sure to succeed and reach all of your academic goals.

Since you never attend a lecture or discussion in distance learning, your academic success lies in your own hands. A successful distance learner must be dedicated and self-disciplined. If you are capable of motivating yourself to complete all of your work in a timely manner, CalSouthern's online learning format is perfect for you!

Your Faculty Mentor and academic advisor are available by email, telephone, fax, and even regular mail for assistance. Your academic advisor will guide you step-by-step through the program. If we have not answered your question in this FAQ section, please call us at (800) 477-2254 or (714) 480-0800 and ask for an admissions representative.