Oct 06, 2024  
University Catalog 2009-2011 (PRINTED) 
    
University Catalog 2009-2011 (PRINTED) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Student Services and Financial Aid



Faculty and professional staff provide education-related services for students within several centers and offices. These include the University Academic Advisement Center, the University Tutorial Center, the University Testing Center, the University Writing Center, the Career Development Center, the Student Health Center, the Center for Student Financial Aid, the Office for Students with Disabilities, and the offices of Admissions and University Outreach, International Student Services, and Housing and Residence Life. Additional services are provided by various areas of the campus. In addition, many departments, divisions, and colleges offer students opportunities for involvement in campus life.

Career Development Center 

 

General Information

Home Page: www.calstatela.edu/univ/cdc
Hours of Operation:  
Mon./Thurs. 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Appointments/Information (323) 343-3237
Student Employment (323) 343-3277
On-Campus Interviews (323) 343-3276

Students are required to show a valid Cal State L.A. Student I.D. to receive career services. Cal State L.A. graduates are entitled to an additional quarter of free access to Career Center services. After that, students must become Career Center Associates or members of the Alumni Association in order to receive career services.

Career Counseling

Choosing an academic major and investigating career options (including graduate programs and professional schools) are important career planning steps. Integrating all of the details of a job search is an important career placement procedure. Professional career counselors are available by appointment and on a limited walk-in basis for individual consultation about these issues.

Workshops

A variety of workshops is offered to assist students in their career planning and job search. Workshops address such topics as choosing a major, interview techniques, resumé writing, and job search strategies. A workshop schedule may be obtained through the Career Center Website or by visiting the Career Center at the beginning of each quarter.

Career Development Resources

Career Assessment Instruments

The Strong Interest Inventory (SII) and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) are offered by individual appointment. A small fee is charged for each instrument.

Computer-Assisted Guidance Choices

This computer-assisted career assessment program focuses on interests, experiences, and work-related values. It provides job titles, descriptions, employment outlook information, and information about colleges and universities across the U.S.

WinWay Resume is a program that automates the entire resume writing process, from overall format to job specific content.

Perfect Interview is an interactive program that provides mock interviews. A webcam records student responses to an interviewer’s questions. Students can view their responses and see a pre-recorded sample of an expert response.

Career Resource Library

The Center maintains a comprehensive collection of books, directories, binders, and videos on the following topics:

  • Academic majors and careers
  • Interviewing techniques, resume and cover letter writing, job search strategies.
  • Salary surveys and labor statistics.
  • Job search books for special populations.
  • Graduate and professional programs
  • Company profiles
  • Civil service positions

The library also features computers for students to use for career-related purposes.

Eagle iJobs

The Career Center provides exclusive job listings to Cal State L.A. students featuring full and part-time on and off-campus jobs and internships via Eagle iJobs. All job seekers are encouraged to register with the service, and can see the front desk for details.

Student Employment

Student Employment offers a valuable service for students who seek part-time employment. There are two types of programs on campus:

Student Assistant:
Students are employed to assist faculty and staff on a part-time basis, maximum of 20 hours per week, in many offices of the University. Students may consult the Student Employment Unit for information.

Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program:
The Federal Work-Study program is intended to increase part-time employment opportunities and to assist financially-eligible students. Determination of eligibility for FWS awards is made by the Center for Student Financial Aid, Student Affairs 124. Job openings are listed on display boards in the Career Center and online.

Off-Campus Federal Work-Study:
Off-Campus employment through the Federal Work-Study program offers an exciting work experience that combines paid community service with active learning, for qualified students. Current openings are listed online and in the Career Center.

Other Programs

Job Referral

Through the Job Referral program, a wide range of vacancies in business, industry, civil service, and education is made available to the campus community. Job vacancies are accessible online via Eagle iJobs and are also listed in the Career Center on our job boards and in our binders.

Internships/Cooperative Education

Internships may be paid or unpaid and offer students hands-on experience in their major discipline. Cooperative Education positions are internships that enable students, with department/division approval, to earn elective credit toward an academic major or minor. Current listings are available in the Career Center.

On-Campus Interview (OCI) Program

The Career Center coordinates interviews for seniors and recent graduates with representatives of business, industry, education and government agencies. Interviews for entry level career positions take place in the Career Center in the fall and spring.

Career/Job Fairs

Each year, more than 200 employers visit the campus during the fall and spring quarters to participate in the Career/Job Fairs. The representatives are interested in students from a variety of majors and a wide range of experiences.

The Education Job Fair, a career fair for those seeking employment in schools pre-K - 12, is held each March.

Alumni Program

Any person who becomes a Career Center Associate or a member of the CSULA Alumni Association is entitled to use most Career Center services. Contact the Career Center for information on how to become a Career Center Associate. An annual fee is charged for membership. Services include:

  • Access to job listings in the Career Center and on Eagle iJobs
  • Use of the Career Resource Library
  • Individual appointments with a career counselor
  • Participation in workshops and career information programs
  • Use of computer-assisted programs
  • Participation in on-campus interviews, limited to a space-available basis (Cal State L.A. graduates only)
  • Attendance at all Career/Job Fairs

Center for Student Financial Aid

The Center for Student Financial Aid, located in Student Affairs 124, assists students find resources to finance their education at Cal State L.A. The center administers a variety of federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loan programs. The Center is open Monday through Thursday between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

To apply for financial assistance, students must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the Department of Education processing center. Information submitted is evaluated to determine financial aid eligibility. The priority deadline is March 2nd of each calendar year. Applications received after the March 2nd priority deadline will be processed in a rolling basis and awarded based remaining funds. Students must re-apply for financial aid every academic year.

Students are encouraged to apply on-line at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/index.htm or may obtain a paper (FAFSA) form at the Center for Student Financial Aid, at any college financial aid office, in high school guidance offices, or local libraries. Applicants are notified by email or mail about their eligibility for financial aid.

Financial Aid Programs

Students who submit a completed (FAFSA) are considered for the following types of financial aid:

Grants

Federal, state, or institutional funds that do not have to be repaid.

Loans

Federally-guaranteed student loans with low interest rates that students must begin repaying six months after they graduate or drop below half-time status.

Employment through the Federal Work-Study Program

On and off-campus student work opportunities offered by the Federal Work-Study Program. The Career Development Center assists in job placement.

Need Analysis and Eligibility

Financial aid eligibility is determined from information provided on the FAFSA. A Federal Methodology is used to determine the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from students and their families. The difference between the cost of education and the Expected Family Contribution constitutes financial need.

Summer Funding

Financial aid (grants, loans and work-study) is available to eligible students for Summer Quarter attendance.

To learn more about financial aid at Cal State L.A., visit the Website: http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/finaid/index_FA.htm

Scholarships

There are over 300 scholarships available to students who are currently attending Cal State L.A. Available scholarships have a wide variety of criteria, and many are for new and continuing undergraduate, graduate and certificate students enrolled with the University. Scholarships are based on such criteria as academic major, academic achievement, campus and/or community participation, financial need, or a variety of other purposes. Some scholarships will provide funding for student fees; others will support the cost of books, transportation and living expenses. The President’s Scholars Program offers special renewable scholarships to new high achieving students.

Students who wish to be considered for all institutional scholarships for which they are qualified should file one (1) General Scholarship Application and have one (1) letter of recommendation. The application and letter should be submitted to the Center for Student Financial Aid, Student Affairs 124. The submission deadline for new students is in March. The deadline for continuing students is in April.

For criteria and up-to-date scholarship listings, go to http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/finaid/on_campus.htm

President’s Scholars Program

Becoming a President’s Scholar is the highest honor that an incoming freshman can earn upon entering Cal State L.A. and is the most prestigious award offered by the University. Recipients receive $5,000 annually for a maximum of four years based on continuous full-time enrollment and academic performance.

Besides the scholarship, President’s Scholars receive free on-campus parking, free admission to on-campus cultural and athletic events, priority registration, membership in the General Education Honors Program and an annual reception with the University President.

Applicants for the President’s Scholars Program must be entering freshmen who are California residents. The minimum grade point average for consideration is 3.75 and the minimum SAT I score is 1200. (ACT minimum is 27.)

Applicants are required to file a President’s Scholars application. The complete application includes a high school transcript, a personal statement and a letter of recommendation from the high school principal. For further information contact the Office of Outreach and Recruitment, (323) 343-3839.

New Student Orientation Programs

All freshman students enrolling for the first time at Cal State L.A. are required to attend an orientation to the University prior to registering for classes for their first quarter of attendance. Transfer students are not required to attend but attendance is strongly recommended. Orientation programs are planned to introduce new undergraduate students to Cal State L.A. The programs are held shortly before new student registration; the dates appear in the Schedule of Classes each quarter. Participating students are welcomed by campus administrators and student leaders, given valuable information by faculty advisors, invited to participate in small group sessions with trained student orientation leaders, and assisted in registering for classes. More information is available by calling (323) 343-3195, or at the University Orientation Website: www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/orientation

Educational Participation in Communities (EPIC)

EPIC is the University’s community service learning center. EPIC encourages Cal State L.A. students to become involved in off-campus community service and works with faculty to support service learning courses. Students can gain valuable experience and personal development through a wide range of service opportunities and can also receive academic credit for volunteer service by enrolling in Community Service 395, a course offered by several academic departments. EPIC also coordinates other community service initiatives such as the America Reads/America Counts tutorial program, the annual Toy and Food Drive, and the Youth Employment Program. Utilizing principles of student development, EPIC employs approximately 50 Federal Work Study students who serve as leaders and coordinators of all of the program’s service initiatives. For further information contact EPIC in the lower level of the Career Center or call (323) 343-3380.

Early Entrance Program (EEP)

Cal State L.A.’s Early Entrance Program (EEP) serves highly gifted students between the ages of 11 and 15 and a half, who need the academic challenges of university coursework to develop intellectually. The EEP provides the opportunity for these highly gifted students to begin their college studies early at CSULA and offers them support, guidance, counseling, and a social environment necessary to prepare them for success at the university level. EEP students are recruited through the biannual Search for Exceptional Academic Achievement (SEAA), talent search and through qualifying scores on college entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT. Top scoring students are eligible to apply to EEP and must complete a series of assessments including interviews with the Director and staff and successful completion of a provisional summer quarter of study. Some qualities of potential students should include, but are not limited to, maturity, motivation and need for academic acceleration. The main criteria for EEP selection include need, motivation and readiness for early college admission.

A limited number of students are then admitted to the EEP after recommendation by the Faculty Admission Committee and final approval of the office of Undergraduate Studies. Regular meetings with EEP staff, participation in scheduled activities, consistent presence on campus simulating traditional secondary school attendance enrollment as a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate and completion of an enhanced GE curriculum is required. EEP students are responsible for tuition identical to other CSU students and are eligible for financial aid and scholarship assistance. Upon admission, EEP students are required to participate in the University’s General Education Honors Program. For further information please contact the EEP Office at (323) 343-2287, Fax (323)343-5575 or visit www.calstatela.edu/academic/eep.

Student Support Program

The Student Support Program (SSP) is designed to help low-income, first generation, or disabled students. SSP provides 1-unit study groups and 4-unit courses in reading and study skills. Each of these groups and courses are linked to a general education course, or remedial math or English course. Counseling and advocacy for the needs of these students is also provided. SSP is located in the Library, Palmer Wing 1040C, (323) 343-3965

University Testing Center

The University Testing Center provides testing services and assistance to all incoming and continuing Cal State LA students. Services range from administering standardized state, national, and professional examinations, to offering departmental placement exams in Math, and Chemistry.

Some of the exams administered by the Center include the American College Test (ACT), Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), Writing Proficiency Examination (WPE), Graduate Record Exam (GRE), and the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). All incoming undergraduates who are required to take the English Placement Test (EPT) and Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) test after admission may register for one of the eleven exam dates offered every year. The testing dates are available at the Testing Center or on the university website at www.calstatela.edu/centers/testctr. The following website will provide additional information regarding EPT/ELM: www.ets.org The Center also has information bulletins available for students on many national and local testing programs.

The Testing Center provides students with information specific to university registration holds related to the EPT, ELM and the WPE. The Testing Center is the office responsible for enforcing registration holds for students who are out of compliance with any of these requirements. Students who have a current EPT, ELM or WPE hold should contact the University Testing Center for information and assistance. The University Testing Center is located in the JFK Library, Palmer Wing, Room 2098. For more information, please call (323) 343-3160.

University Learning Services

Academic Advisement Center

The University Academic Advisement Center, located in the Library, Palmer Wing 1040A, provides General Education advisement and academic advisement and other related services for undergraduate students who have not declared a major. Special attention is given to general education, introduction to higher education courses (UNIV 101 and UNIV 301), electives, and selection of an academic major. Walk-in requests are honored, depending on staff availability, but students are encouraged to make an appointment by calling the center at (323) 343-3150.

University Tutorial Center

The University Tutorial Center, located in the Library, Palmer Wing 1039, offers individual and group tutoring for many general education and other undergraduate courses. Trained peer tutors guide and assist students to develop content area knowledge and skills.

The University Tutorial Center also offers study skills workshops that cover such topics as time management, note-taking, textbook reading, and test-taking to guide and assist students to become confident, effective, independent learners. For more information, call (323) 343-3971.

University Writing Center

The University Writing Center (UWC), located in the Library, Palmer Wing 2097, provides individual and group tutoring, writing workshops, and other services to meet the writing needs of undergraduate and graduate Cal State L.A. students. Writing tutors are trained to provide constructive feedback and to assist students in recognizing and overcoming their writing problems. Tutors help students to plan, revise, and find patterns of error within their essays. Writing workshops are offered on a variety of topics such as Organizing your Essay, Research Writing, and Timed Essay Writing.

The Center also provides Writing Proficiency Examination (WPE) services for students, including orientation meetings, WPE preparation workshops, and tutoring. WPE consultants are available to meet with students who have previously taken the WPE, but have not passed. Consultants will review the students’ exam essays and provide strategies and recommendations. Students with a WPE-related registration hold should call the Writing Center for information about a WPE contract.

The Center offers Conversation Groups for students whose first language is not English. These casual conversation groups meet at various times throughout the week, are staffed by UWC tutors, and provide students with an excellent opportunity to practice their English conversation skills in an informal setting.

Computers are available to students who use the services of the UWC. However, all students must have a campus NIS account to access any computer station.

The University Writing Center is open to all Cal State L.A. students. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (323) 343-5350 or visit our Website at http://www.calstatela.edu/centers/write_cn/.

Student Health Services

Medical Services

The Student Health Center (SHC) offers a full array of health-related services including general medical care of common health problems, women’s health and family planning, physical examinations, health promotion and education, dental care, pharmacy, X-ray, laboratory, optometry, chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage therapy. Many services are offered free of charge, and others are provided at low costs. The SHC also provides various immunizations such as those required for admission to Cal State L.A., employment, and traveling. The center is open Monday–Friday. For more information call (323)343-3300 or visit the Student Health Center web site, http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/hlth_ctr/.

Students having severe or complicated illnesses that need hospitalization or care beyond the scope of the health center are referred to private or community providers/facilities. Because on-campus services may not meet students’ year-round health needs, enrollment in a program of supplemental health insurance is recommended. Information about the campus-sponsored program is available at the Student Health Center.

Personal Counseling

The Counseling Center in the SHC provides individual and group counseling for students dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, personal adjustment difficulties, problems with interpersonal relationships, conflicts about sexuality, coping with stress, and clarifying goals. Counseling can help students deal with their personal and emotional issues and make the most of their education by fostering personal growth and promoting mental health. The center is a place where individuals can explore and express their feelings, values, and concerns with a trained professional in an atmosphere that is confidential, interactive, and non-judgmental. Students can make appointments by calling (323) 343-3302.

Other Services and Programs

Child Development Center

The Anna Bing Arnold Child Care Center provides part-time and full-time day care at a nominal cost for children ages two to five years whose parents are Cal State L.A. students, staff, or faculty members. The center is located at 2300 Levanda St. in Los Angeles, adjacent to the campus. The attractive, residential style building with a large, fully fenced yard was designed to serve as a learning environment for Cal State L.A. students as well as for children. For applications and information, call (323) 343-2470.

Extended Education

Extended Education administers Extension programs, Special Sessions, Professional Development, Open University, the English Language Program (ELP), and External Degree programs. Refer to the chapter in this catalog titled The University for additional information.

International Programs and Services (IPS)

The University’s excellent academic programs attract international (visa) students from around the world. International Programs and Services (IPS) provides assistance in admission, orientation, and counseling to all international students and scholars, permanent resident alien students, and refugees. Students interested in organizing national or cultural clubs may obtain support and guidance from IPS. The professional staff offers advising for educational, social, or personal problems. IPS provides assistance and guidance to students who wish to obtain practical training and to maintain compliance with U.S. immigration requirements. The IPS staff treats student concerns with confidentiality. Everyone is welcome to visit the office in Student Affairs 115. For more information, call (323) 343-3170.

International Student and Scholar Advising Services

Provides assistance to visa students and scholars in such areas as academic and cultural adjustment and social and recreational activities.

Immigration Counseling Services

Provides assistance to visa students, foreign scholars, and foreign faculty with visa issuance (F, H, and J visas, etc.), maintenance of student status, and matters that involve the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Opportunities to Study at Other Universities in the U.S. and Abroad

The National Student Exchange (NSE) program offers students an opportunity to study at more than 190 state universities throughout the U.S. and Canada. The period of study may range from one quarter to one academic year. The California State University International Programs (IP) provides the opportunity to study for an academic year at top universities in numerous countries. International Programs and Services (Admin. 127) offers information about short-term study opportunities in other countries, Fulbright and Rotary fellowships, internships, volunteer programs, and short-term work opportunities abroad. Academic credit is available for study through NSE and for study abroad. Financial aid may be applied to the NSE and study abroad. Many programs cost little more than studying at Cal State L.A. For more information about these programs, visit Administration 127, call (323) 343-3170, or refer to the International Programs section in the chapter titled The University.

Office for Students with Disabilities

The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) provides services designed to enhance the educational and social experience of students with disabilities. Students with verified disabilities are provided appropriate disability-related services as eligible from the following list:

  • Admission requirement information
  • Orientation to OSD services
  • Priority registration
  • Program change assistance
  • Temporary disabled parking
  • Liaison to the State Department of Rehabilitation
  • Referrals to on- and off-campus resources
  • Diagnostic assessment of learning disabilities
  • Referral to on-campus computer labs that have adaptive equipment
  • Disability management counseling
  • Test-taking accommodations
  • Note taking services
  • Tutoring by referral
  • Interpreters (sign language and oral)
  • Real-time captioning
  • Test proctors
  • Lab assistants

In addition to these services, OSD lends the following equipment to students with disabilities:

  • FM amplification systems for the deaf/hearing impaired (Limited number)

Adaptive Technology Program

The Adaptive Technology Program provides students alternative access to electronic information and computer technology, including orientation and training. The program provides campus-wide support for the libraries, academic technology services, and all academic departments and divisions. The program has a lab of twelve computers in Library South Palmer Wing room 1080. The program provides training and support on standard software, voice-input systems, screen readers, enlargement software, Braille translation and printing, CCTV’s, book-reading equipment, and other educational aids.

Alternative Media Services

Alternative media accommodations are available to eligible students with documented disabilities that impair the ability to perceive, comprehend or manipulate written materials. Students who believe they are eligible should meet with a Disability Specialist to discuss their needs.

The Office for Students with Disabilities is located in Administration 127, (323) 343-3140 (TDD 343-3139); fax (323) 343-6429.

Student Housing - Living on Campus

Cal State L.A.’s resident apartments offer an excellent “home away from home” for students who choose to live on campus. All of the 132 two-bedroom and 60 four-bedroom apartments are furnished, including carpeting and blinds, air conditioning, stoves, microwave ovens, and refrigerators. Students may relax in two community centers. The complex also offers a recreation/games room, a large TV lounge, a computer lab, a weight room, and laundry facilities. Basketball and volleyball courts are equipped with lights for evening use. Parking is available in a specially designated, well-lit parking area. Live-in staff members help residents build and maintain a sense of community. Resident assistants provide both educational and social programs to create a well-rounded experience for students who live in on-campus housing.

Students may consider several options when they decide to live on campus.

Theme Areas

The Neighborhood. The Neighborhood is home to graduate and nontraditional students. This area of the community has a 24-hour quiet policy.

First Year House. All freshmen begin their residential experience in the First Year House. This is the place to become acclimated to the University community through a focus on academic success and leadership development.

ACLP/International House. The ACLP/International House is home to students who are enrolled in the American Culture and Language Program (ACLP) offered through the Office of Extended Education. This house brings students of different cultures and nationalities together in the context of daily living. Programs offered in this area are focused on cultural exchange and English language practice.

Wellness/Substance Free House. The Wellness House brings together students of all ages who are interested in maintaining their physical well being and a healthy lifestyle. Programs offered in this area promote wellness and healthy living.

Community Living

The Village. The Village is home to students, in double occupancy, who enjoy community living, but have chosen not to be a part of a theme area.

Quiet House. The Quiet House is a community of undergraduate students. The area emphasizes quiet living and an opportunity for concentrated study.

For more information, call Housing Services at (323) 343-4800 or visit the Website: www.calstatela.edu/univ/housing/.

University-Student Union

The University-Student Union (U-SU), (323) 343-2450, is the focal point of extracurricular interaction for the University community. Students, staff, faculty, alumni, and invited guests participate in social, cultural, recreational, and educational activities. In temporary quarters until a new University Student Union is built, the Union offers information services, lounge and study areas, and employment opportunities, as well as student activities and special events.

Board of Directors

The University-Student Union Board of Directors, which comprises 13 voting members including seven students, establishes policy and governance and develops administrative policies that affect the management of the building. The board conducts much of its work through a committee structure that includes fiscal, personnel, space allocation and building usage, student programs and executive committees. Meetings are open to the public, and attendance is encouraged.

Union Reservations

This office coordinates all nonacademic scheduling of campus facilities for on- and off-campus groups, clubs and organizations. Meeting rooms, conference facilities, audiovisual media equipment, and parking for conferences, retreats, receptions, and social events can be reserved through this office.

Cross Cultural Centers

The mission of the Cross Cultural Centers at California State University, Los Angeles is to encourage student learning as well as foster an inclusive campus community that challenges racism, sexism, heterosexism, classism, and other forms of oppression. With a commitment to social justice and increasing cross-cultural awareness, the CCC offers a wide variety of programs and services that explore the shared and unique experiences, histories, and heritages of our diverse community.

The Cross Cultural Centers consist of four resource centers: Women’s Resource Center, founded in 1976; Pan African Student Resource Center, founded in 1990; Asian Pacific American Resource Center, founded in 1993; and Chicana/o Latina/o Student Resource Center, founded in 1993. Contact the Cross Cultural Centers at (323) 343-5001.

Center for Student Involvement

The Center for Student Involvement serves as a hub for student involvement and programs, adding to the value of campus life at Cal State L.A. The Center is responsible for Campus Programs and Activities; Student Organizations; Fraternities and Sororities; and Student Leadership Initiatives.

Over 150 programs are offered each year for Cal State L.A. students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests. A group of student coordinators plan and promote a variety of events, including Fall Student Fest, Mardi Gras, musical entertainment, comedy performances, lectures, workshops, and recreational trips.

Cal State L.A. hosts over 100 student organizations that address a variety of issues and plan hundreds of events each year. The student organizations represent academic, cultural, political, professional, religious and spiritual, service, social, and recreational interests. Students are able to join an existing organization or start one of their own.

Many programs are offered that allow students to explore and enhance their leadership abilities including the Leader Project and Leader to Leader. Lead NOW workshops and for-credit classes, are offered throughout the year by the Center to serve all leaders.

The Center is located on the second level of the University- Student Union in room 204. Please feel free to contact The Center for Student Involvement at 323-343-5110 or centersd@calstatela.edu.

Sororities and Fraternities

A traditional part of campus life for many Cal State L.A. students is membership in fraternity and sorority organizations, which offer the chance to meet new friends and participate in an extensive program of activities. In addition to social functions, these organizations are involved in various campus and community projects and provide housing for a limited number of their members.

Sororities Fraternities
Alpha Sigma Tau Alpha Epsilon Omega
Alpha Theta Pi Alpha Phi Alpha
Delta Phi Sigma Fraternity, Inc
Delta Sigma Chi Co-ed Beta Gamma Nu
Fraternity Gamma Zeta Alpha
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Phi Sigma Kappa
Delta Zeta Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Lambda Theta Alpha Sigma Lambda Beta
Lambda Theta Nu Sigma Nu
Zeta Phi Beta Phi Beta Sigma

Women’s and Gender Studies Activities

A wide variety of programs in Women’s and Gender Studies are offered through the Center for the Study of Genders and Sexualities (CSGS). Lectures, performances, faculty-research discussions, internships, and research opportunities are all open to students. CSGS invites students to serve on planning committees as well. Students from all majors and minors are eligible to participate.

Veterans’ Services

Cal State L.A. is approved for the training of veterans of the military services and their dependents under educational assistance programs established by the state and federal governments. Authorization for training under all federal bills must be obtained from the Veterans Administration through its regional office at 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024. Veterans with no prior training under the G.I. bills are urged to request their letter of eligibility at least two months before enrolling. Those transferring from another school should submit their transfer request at least one month before enrolling.

The Veterans’ Services Office, located in Administration 401, (323) 343-3943, provides enrollment certification for financial benefits and serves as a liaison between the University and the VA regional office for benefit payments and advisement about current benefits. Information about changes in legislative regulations and procedures also is available.

Children of Disabled Veterans

Students who qualify as children of certain disabled veterans of U.S. military services may be exempted from paying any student services portion of the registration fees, according to the California Education Code. Information about eligibility requirements and applications for waiver of these fees are available in the Office of Veterans’ Services.

Student Activities – Special Interest Groups

Art Exhibitions

This facility is the largest art exhibition space available for students on campus. We present an Undergraduate Art Exhibition, Senior Project Exhibitions, 6 to 12 MA/MFA Thesis Exhibitions and exhibitions of work by professional artists. In addition, lectures, musical events and poetry readings, as well as other special events are scheduled in the gallery to increase the reach of the visual arts to new audiences. The student-run exhibition space, COMA Gallery, presents rotating exhibitions of Cal State L.A. student artwork. All exhibitions are free and open to the public.

Communication Activities

The program offers a rich array of professional activities. The award winning Forensics team participates in debate and individual events in prominent intercollegiate tournaments. Students in Oral Interpretation and Performance Studies offer frequent public presentations. Students produce the school newspaper, the University Times, Students edit and help produce Communication Scholars, the department’s annual student scholarship showcase journal. Students may earn credit for participation in these programs by enrolling in appropriate activity courses in the Department of Communication Studies.

Dance

The University Dance Ensemble and tours offer students experiences in performing, choreographing, costume designing, lighting, and composing sound /music for dance. Performances vary in number each year and range from miniconcerts, community tours, to full productions. Membership is open to anyone who has a strong interest in dance theatre and is able to fulfill the purposes and functions of the organization. Students who participate must enroll in dance courses 480, 483, and 484 in the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance.

Intramurals

The School of Kinesiology and Nutritional Science offers a variable selection of intramural sports and activities for all men and women at Cal State L.A. Opportunities range from varied recreational interests to competitive intramural leagues. Students may enroll for credit in an intramurals course, PE 110.Literary Activities

Literary Activities

The Department of English sponsors a variety of literary activities open to the campus community, including creative writing opportunities, a lecture and poetry series, student open-mike readings, and a national scholarly organization. It also engages in international literary partnerships including serving as one of two American pilot sites of the British Council Writer in Residence Program, and a newly established partnership with University of London and co-sponsors literary events with the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA). The English Department publishes an annual student-edited award-winning magazine, Statement Magazine, which showcases student work from a variety of disciplines. Students may register for ENGL 392 to receive academic credit to assist with the production of Statement Magazine.  The Dean’s Prize in Poetry and the Dean’s Prize in Prose are awarded each year to a distinguished selection in each genre appearing in Statement Magazine.

The Department also sponsors the Henri Coulette Academy of American Poets Prize in poetry given annually. The David L. Kubal Memorial Lecture Series is designed to bring outstanding scholars to lecture on campus. Recent Kubal Lecture Series speakers have included Frederick Crews, Marjorie Perloff, Helen Vendler, Sacvan Bercovitch, J. Hillis Miller, and X.J. Kennedy. The annual Jean Burden Poetry Series event has hosted such poets as Paul Zimmer, Howard Nemerov, Tess Gallagher, Maxine Kumin, Lucille Clifton, Mark Strand, Diana O’Hehir, Bruce Bond, Killarney Clary, Carolyn Kizer, Richard Wilbur, Mary Oliver, Galway Kinnell, Harryette Mullen, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Linda Pastan, and Rita Dove. In addition, the Department is actively engaged in selecting speakers and organizing events for the campus and the community sponsored by the generous fund established by Virginia E. Smith, Jean Burden and others to promote poetry and poetics at Cal State L.A. A newly chartered Center for Contemporary Poetry and Poetics sponsors a wider range of activities on campus and in Los Angeles, including mentorships with the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts and the Chester W. Nimitz Middle School. Partnerships with civic organizations such as the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the Huntington Library, All-Ages Poetry Contest and Performances. Participating poets in the recent past have included Harryette Mullen, Garrett Hongo and Anthony Hecht. Furthermore, the English Department is the home of the American Literature Association (ALA), a national coalition of author societies devoted to the study of American writers. The ALA sponsors national and international conferences. The English Department also sponsors the Creative Writing Club. Open to students in all majors, the Creative Writing Club, which is open to students in all majors.

Musical Events and Organizations

The Associated Students cooperates with the Department of Music in offering an extensive program of musical events. Students enroll for academic credit in music activity courses as members of various performance organizations. Each organization has a regular performance schedule and performs several times each year both on and off campus. Some concerts are held during the noon hour; others are scheduled at night or on weekends. Membership is open to all students who wish to participate. The Afro Latin Ensemble, Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, Jazz Orchestra, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Opera Workshop require an audition. Music organizations include:

Musical Organization

Brass Ensemble
Chamber Music
Chamber Singers
Concert Choir
Jazz Orchestra
Jazz Lab Band
Small Jazz Ensemble
Afro Latin Ensemble
New Music Ensemble
Opera Workshop
Percussion Ensemble: Orchestral Percussion
Percussion Ensemble: Latin Percussion
String Ensemble: Guitars
Symphonic Band
Wind Ensemble
Orchestral Performance and Practice
Vocal Jazz Ensemble
University Chorus
International Choir
Course No.

MUS 422
MUS 485
MUS 425
MUS 326
MUS 424-01
MUS 424-02
MUS 427

MUS 428
MUS 426
MUS 423A
MUS423B
MUS 420B
MUS 320
MUS 322
MUS 321
MUS 328
MUS 327
MUS 329

Philosophy Activities

The Department of Philosophy sponsors a colloquium series that brings well known philosophers to campus. Students have opportunities to interact informally with these speakers. A student organization, the Philosophy Club, plans a variety of events and students also edit a print journal of student writings, Philosophy in Practice and receive credit for their work by enrolling in PHIL 400.

Television, Film, and Media Studies

The Department of Communication Studies also offers comprehensive programs in Journalism for print, broadcast, cable, and internet, 2-D traditional Animation and a comprehensive range of film and video production including scriptwriting, television studio multi-camera production, field video and film production, documentary, and post-production. The program offers students experiences in professional film festival competition through the CSU’s annual Media Arts Festival, Cal State L.A.’s own annual student film and video festival that is conceived, organized, and produced by students, and the annual national showcase, Reel Rasquache U.S. Latino Film Festival. The program offers students filmmaking support competitively awarded through the generous contributions of such professional organizations as the Hollywood Foreign Press Association and Women In Film., Students also participate in the CSU Media Internship program in which students are matched and placed in high end internship opportunities with the media industries including major studios, independent productions, and guilds and industry associations in film, television, radio, journalism, music, graphics, and entertainment industry-related business, public relations, marketing, and new technologies. Students may earn credit for participation in these programs by enrolling in appropriate activity courses in the Department of Communication Studies.

Student Publications

A wide variety of student publications represent the myriad academic and professional interests of Cal State L.A.’s student body. A partial list of these publications appears below. For information about being involved in–or receiving–a particular publication, interested students should contact the appropriate department/division/school.

Publication

Department or College Office

Philosophy in Practice Philosophy
California Anthropologist Anthropology
Statement English
The Looking Glass Psi Chi/Psychology
University Times Communication Studies
Perspectives: A Journal of History History

Theatrical and Dance Productions

The Department of Theatre Arts and Dance offers comprehensive programs in play and dance production and children’s theatre. The department presents twelve or more productions during the year; they include faculty- and student-directed workshops and major productions. All students are eligible to audition for plays and dance productions or apply for backstage assignments. They may earn production credit by enrolling in TA 100, 300, 310, 459, 489, or 595 or DANC 480.

Theatre

The Nest productions offer students an opportunity to create and produce their own work in the student theatre, Music 115. These productions can be original one act plays or any performance piece created and performed by students. Students who participate must enroll in TA 100 in the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance.