Online Degree Programs and Certificates at California Southern University

California Southern University (CalSouthern) is a US-based university that is part of the American InterContinental University System, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org). CalSouthern specializes in flexible, career-focused education designed for working adults. Learners can pursue fully online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across fields such as business, psychology, nursing, law, education, and more. CalSouthern features monthly course starts, transfer-credit policies, and comprehensive learner support services, all designed to help learners advance their education without putting their life on hold.

Yes, California Southern University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. In addition, some of CalSouthern's programs carry specialized accreditation, such as business programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and nursing programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs at CalSouthern are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (ccneaccreditation.org).

Yes, CalSouthern offers a transfer-friendly policy. We consider:*

• Previous college coursework from institutions accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
• CLEP and DSST exam scores, and other standardized assessments.
• Military training and experience reviewed through American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations.
• Coursework from international institutions; credits from international institutions recognized by their government's Ministry of Education (official transcripts and credential evaluations may be required).
• Undergraduate credits earned through employer-sponsored work-related courses that have ACE certification.
• Credits from partner schools with articulation agreements, such as Saddleback College and Copper Mountain College.

An Admissions Advisor can provide an unofficial transfer review at no cost, showing how many of your credits, scores and/or assessments, or ACE-evaluated military experience could apply—potentially reducing both tuition and time to completion.

*Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.

There are ways to lower out-of-pocket costs, such as:

• Transfer credit opportunities* can significantly reduce time and tuition.
• Military tuition grants** and corporate alliance grants are available for eligible learners.
• Current Assistance Offers are awarded after verification of eligibility.

Because each learner's path is unique, the actual out-of-pocket cost depends on transfer credits, current assistance offers, and the chosen payment plan. For a personalized estimate, contact a CalSouthern admissions advisor or use the tuition resources on the university's website.

• At CalSouthern, we believe that online college classes are absolutely beneficial—especially for learners who need flexibility without sacrificing quality.
• With monthly course starts, 24/7 access to your classroom, and mobile-friendly learning tools, lectures, discussions, and assignments can easily fit around work and family obligations. Learners are never on their own because dedicated faculty mentors are available to help keep them on track.
• CalSouthern's tuition is competitive, and its transfer-friendly policies can help to lower both cost and time to completion.
• Our programs are career-focused, emphasizing real-world projects and industry-aligned skills that many employers may value.
• If you're seeking a degree that balances academic rigor with life's demands, CalSouthern's online classes offer a practical, supportive path to achieve your educational goals.

CalSouthern's online undergraduate programs are delivered in flexible formats with monthly start dates, so there's always a new term just around the corner. Graduate programs also follow a monthly enrollment model. In other words, if you're asking when you can begin, the answer is almost always "very soon!"

Yes. CalSouthern's courses are offered in 100% online formats, so you can log in anytime to access lectures, assignments, and discussions from your internet-enabled laptop, tablet, or phone. The university offers monthly start dates, giving learners the ability to begin when it works best for their schedule.

Because classes are designed for working adults, learners can progress at their own pace while balancing career and family commitments in side of course start and end dates. In addition, learners benefit from faculty mentors and learner support services, which further enhance flexibility and help them stay on track toward graduation.

• Business Administration - Versatile degree with specializations to launch or level-up your business career path. Learn more about CalSouthern's BBA, MBA, and DBA programs.
• Psychology & Behavioral Sciences - Build counseling, research, and leadership skills across multiple pathways. Learn more about CalSouthern's BA in Psychology, MA in Psychology, MS in Psychology, and PsyD.
• Nursing - Advance your clinical and leadership capabilities online. Learn more about CalSouthern's RN-to-BSN and MSN programs.
• Criminology & Criminal Justice - Prepare to pursue roles in policy, and executive leadership. Learn more about CalSouthern's BS in Criminal Justice and MS in Law Enforcement Executive Leadership.
• Education - Strengthen instructional practice and leadership. Learn more about CalSouthern's MEd program.