Procedures and Regulations

General Information

Information about University procedures and regulations contained in this section is applicable to all undergraduate students. Some general information also applies to postbaccalaureate and graduate students. Additional procedures and regulations applicable only to postbaccalaureate and graduate students are included in the Graduate and Postbaccalaureate Study section.

Undergraduate Class Levels

Undergraduate students are classified according to the number of quarter units of baccalaureate-level course work they have completed, calculated as follows:

Quarter Units/Quarter System

Cal State L.A. credits are expressed in quarter units; one quarter unit normally represents no less than one hour of class work and two or more hours of outside study per week for one quarter. One and one-half (1½) quarter units are equal to one (1) semester unit. Conversely, one quarter unit is equal to 2/3 semester unit of credit.

Study Load

Undergraduate students must carry a study load of 12 units for full-time enrollment certification by the University. The recommended full-time study load for undergraduates is 16 units. Students on scholastic probation must limit their study load to 12 units unless an academic adviser in their major department/division/school has approved an exception.

Campus Identification Number (CIN)

Effective Summer Quarter 2003 California State University, Los Angeles will randomly assign a nine-digit Campus Identification Number (CIN) to all students in the University. This number is used as a means of identifying records and offering services pertaining to students. The students’ Social Security Number will continue to be retained for purposes of financial aid eligibility and other debts payable to the institution.

Undergraduate Student Orientation

All undergraduate 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. The orientation will provide information to help students gain a better understanding of the various aspects of University life and learn about policies and procedures as well as, skills and knowledge for success. Student will also learn about appropriate courses for their individual program and register for their first quarter. More information is available by calling (323) 343-3195, or at the University Orientation Website: www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/orientation.

Registration

Continuing students at California State University, Los Angeles receive information regarding their registration appointment dates by logging into GET (Golden Eagle Territory). Additional information about registration procedures is provided in the Schedule of Classes, issued each quarter before the registration period and available for purchase at the University Square Bookstore. Web registration (GET) is available to all eligible continuing students.

Students maintain their continuing student status for registration purposes only by attending at least two of the four quarters immediately preceding the quarter in which they plan to enroll. Students who were admitted and enrolled in one of the last three quarters preceding the quarter in which they plan to enroll will also maintain their continuing student status for registration purposes. Absence for more than two of any four consecutive quarters without an approved leave of absence will cancel continuing registration eligibility. See Leaves of Absence later in this chapter.

Attendance in University extension courses does not constitute continuous attendance.

Students who attended another college or university during an absence from Cal State L.A., except for a summer session or extension program or approved visitor enrollment at another CSU campus, are required to file an application for admission as a returning student and have official transcripts of work taken sent to the Admissions Office. The $55 nonrefundable application fee is charged. Such students will, if eligible, receive forms to register as returning students.

Students who are graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Cal State L.A. and wish to continue in graduate standing are required to file a new application for graduate admission and will, if eligible, receive forms to register as new students.

Academic Advisement

Academic advisement is required for all new students before or during their first quarter in attendance. Freshman students must attend Orientation and will receive basic advisement during their Orientation session. Before registering for their first quarter at Cal State L.A., transfer students should consult an adviser in their major department/division/school to plan a program of study. Newly admitted students should bring a copy of all high school and/or college transcripts when seeking advisement. They should consult the Schedule of Classes for a list of academic advisers. After the first advisement session, students must consult an academic adviser at least annually or more often as necessary to enhance academic success. Undergraduate students who, upon admission to the University, are unable to select a specific major shall consult an adviser in the University Academic Advisement Center.

By the end of their first year in residence, students must meet with an academic advisor to develop a degree plan. Because the approved degree plan becomes the basis for determining eligibility for the degree, any change in the student’s degree plan must have an academic  adviser’s approval. Annual, or more often as needed, consultation with an academic adviser in the major department/division/school or University Academic Advisement Center is therefore required.

After reaching 90 units and before completing 120 units, all students are required to meet with an academic advisor to review their progress toward graduation based on an audit of their degree plan. In addition, if students have reached 180 units and have not filed a graduation application, they must meet with an academic advisor to develop a plan to help ensure timely and efficient progress toward graduation. The plan will include remaining requirements and dates of future progress checks.

Forms used for change or declaration of major are available in Administration 146. Students may change their major by consulting an adviser in the appropriate academic department/division/school, and by application through the University Academic Advisement Center. They should be aware, however, that a change in major will require that adjustments be made to their degree plan and may delay graduation.

Undeclared Majors

Upon admission, undergraduate students are encouraged to declare a major. Those who have not selected a specific major shall be designated undeclared majors. Before registering for their first quarter at Cal State L.A., undeclared majors shall consult an adviser in the University Academic Advisement Center, Library, Palmer Wing 1040A, to plan a preliminary program of study.

All first time freshmen and transfer students who are admitted with less than 30 units shall declare a major by the time they complete 45 quarter units in residence or four quarters in residence, whichever comes first.

All transfer students admitted with 30 units or more shall declare a major by the end of their first quarter in residence.

Upon declaring a major, students shall meet with an academic advisor to develop a degree plan.

Final Examinations

Final examinations or final class meetings are required in all courses at the time and place shown in the final examination schedule in the Schedule of Classes. Any exception in time or place must have written approval of the instructor, department/division/school chair or director, and college dean. Students who find it impossible to take a final examination at the scheduled time may, with the written approval of the instructor, department/division/school chair or director, and college dean, have a special final examination administered.

Repeating Courses

Unless otherwise indicated in the description of a particular course in this catalog, students may not repeat for credit any course they have already completed with a grade of C (2.0 grade points) or higher nor may they, in any case, receive units earned more than once for each passing attempt.

Academic Renewal

Under certain circumstances, up to two semesters or three quarters of previous undergraduate course work taken at any college may be disregarded from all considerations associated with requirements for the baccalaureate. Detailed eligibility and procedural information is provided in the Schedule of Classes.

The basic criteria are listed below:

• Five years must have elapsed since the completion of the most recent work to be disregarded;
• Any previous removal of work from degree consideration must be included in applying the limits on work that may be disregarded;
• Since completion of the work to be disregarded, students must have maintained the following grade point averages at Cal State L.A. at the time of petition: 3.0 for students with 22–44 quarter units completed; 2.5 with 45–66 units completed; and 2.0 with 67 or more units completed; and
• There must be evidence that the student would find it necessary to complete additional units and enroll for one or more additional quarters to qualify for the baccalaureate if the request was not approved.

Students are advised that they may file a petition to disregard undergraduate course work as described above if their grade point average is lower than C (2.0) in general education, the major, or overall college units attempted (a condition preventing them from qualifying for the degree) and they meet all of the above criteria and conditions.

Repeating Courses for Grade Substitution

Effective Fall 1996, students who are pursuing a baccalaureate may repeat a course one time for purposes of grade substitution if the grade of record is below a C (2.0 grade points). This procedure is limited to a maximum of 20 quarter units. All repetitions must be done at Cal State L.A.

Grade substitution shall occur at the student’s request. Grade substitution shall occur only when the same or equivalent course is taken two or more times at California State University, Los Angeles. For purposes of grade substitution, a repeated course may be considered equivalent to the original course if only the number and/or name of the original course has been modified. In computing grade point averages for graduation with a baccalaureate from this institution, units attempted, units earned (if any), and grade points (if any) for one previous attempt of the same or equivalent course shall be excluded when conditions specified in this policy are met. Repeating courses under this policy does not result in the removal of the original record and grade from the transcript.

Individual colleges, departments, and divisions may have additional restrictions about acceptance of repetitions. Students should therefore, consult department/division/school advisers before attempting repetitions and should consult the Schedule of Classes for details about filing instructions. The repeated course form, available at Administration 146, must be submitted prior to graduation.

Honorable Dismissal

Honorable dismissal is granted to all students who are not under financial obligation to the University and who are not under disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion. Academic disqualification does not constitute dishonorable dismissal.

Petitions for Waiver of Regulations

Rules and regulations in this catalog have been adopted by the faculty and administration to maintain appropriate academic standards and facilitate the administration of the university’s programs. Students who believe that extenuating circumstances might justify the waiver of a particular regulation or requirement may file a petition at their major department/division/school office, according to established procedures, for consideration by a faculty committee. However, provisions of Title 5, California Code of Regulations, or other state or federal laws and regulations, are not subject to waiver by petition. Detailed information about procedures and regulations governing petitions are found in the Schedule of Classes.

Schedule of Fees: 2009-2010

Legal residents of California are not charged tuition. The following reflects applicable fees and nonresident tuition for the quarter system.

Mandatory systemwide fees are waived for those individuals who qualify for such exemption under the provisions of the California Education Code (see section on fee waivers).

Application Fee

Application Fee (nonrefundable), payable by check or money order at time application is made: $55

All Campuses, except California State University, Stanislaus:

Registration Fees

Doctoral Programs

Fees for Students enrolled in the joint Ed. D. program with the University of California, Irvine (UCI), pay fees at UCI. Students enrolled in the joint Ph. D. program with the University of California, Los Angeles, pay Graduate fees at Cal State L.A.

Doctoral Programs Fees

All students

$2,892 per quarter $8,676.00 per academic year

Graduate Business Professional Fee

All Students $140.00 per quarter unit rate

The Graduate Business Professional Fee is paid on a per unit basis in addition to the SUF and campus fees for the following graduate business programs:

Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Accountancy

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Business Administration

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Health Care Management

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Business and Technology

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Information Systems

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Taxation

Nonresident Tuition—U.S. and Foreign

Other Fees

(refer to Schedule of Classes for more detailed list)

Materials/Breakage Fee

Some art, chemistry, and technology courses have additional fees for special materials and/or breakage. These courses are identified in this catalog and in Schedule of Classes notes. Items lost or broken will be charged at cost. Failure to satisfy charges billed will result in the withholding of transcripts and registration privileges.

Library “Excessive Use” Fees

“Excessive Use” fees are computed from the time the material was due until the time the material is returned or declared lost.

Excessive Use Fee Per Transaction

Once billed, fees are not negotiable except under extenuating circumstances. Failure to satisfy charges billed may result in the withholding of transcripts and registration privileges.

Musical Instrument and Audio/Visual Equipment Fee

A fee of up to $25 will be charged for the repair, maintenance, and insurance of musical instruments and audio/visual equipment owned by the state and used by individual students in course work.

Fee Waivers

The California Education Code includes provisions for the waiver of mandatory systemwide fees as follows:

Section 68120 – Children and surviving spouses/registered domestic partners of deceased public law enforcement or fire suppression employees who were California residents and who were killed in the course of law enforcement or fire suppression duties (referred to as Alan Pattee Scholarships);

Section 66025.3 – Qualifying children, spouses/registered domestic partners, or unmarried surviving spouses/registered domestic partners of a war period veteran of the U.S. military who is totally service-connected disabled or who died as a result of service-related causes; children of any veteran of the U.S. military who has a service-connected disability, was killed in action, or died of a service-connected disability and meets specified income provisions; any dependents or surviving spouse/registered domestic partner who has not remarried of a member of the California National Guard who in the line of duty and in active service of the state was killed or became permanently disabled or died of a disability as a result of an event while in active service of the state; and undergraduate students who are the recipient of or the child of a  recipient of a Congressional Medal of Honor and meet age and income restrictions; and

Section 68121 – Student enrolled in an undergraduate program who are the surviving dependent of any individual killed in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon building in Washington, D.C., or the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in southwestern Pennsylvania, if the student meets the financial need requirements set forth in Section 69432.7 for the Cal Grant A Program and either the surviving dependent or the individual killed in the attacks was a resident of California on September 11, 2001.

Students who may qualify for these benefits should contact the Admissions/Registrar’s Office for further information and/or an eligibility determination. For more information, contact the Cashiers’ Office, (323) 343-3630.

Nonresident Teaching Credential Waiver

Nonresident fees may be waived for persons who hold a valid California credential and are employed by a public school district in this state in a full-time position requiring certification. Eligible persons must meet at least one of the following conditions:

• hold a provisional credential and enroll in courses necessary to obtain another type of credential authorizing service in the public schools;
• hold a partial credential and enroll in courses necessary to fulfill postponed credential requirements; or
• enroll in courses necessary to fulfill requirements for a fifth year of study as prescribed at Cal State L.A.

Refund of Mandatory Fees, Including Nonresident Tuition

Regulations governing the refund of mandatory fees, including nonresident tuition, for students enrolling at the California State University are included in §41802. For purposes of the refund policy, mandatory fees are defined as those systemwide fees and campus fees that are required to be paid in order to enroll in state-supported academic programs at the California State University. Refunds of fees and tuition charges for self-support programs at the California State University (courses offered through extended education) are governed by a separate policy established by the University.

In order to receive a full refund of mandatory fees, including nonresident tuition, a student must cancel registration or drop all courses prior to the first day of instruction for the term. Information on procedures and deadlines for canceling registration and dropping classes is available (location of information, e.g., in the Schedule of Classes).

For state-supported semesters, quarters, and non-standard terms or courses of four (4) weeks or more, a student who withdraws during the term in accordance with the university’s established procedures will receive a refund of mandatory fees, including nonresident tuition, based on the portion of the term during which the student was enrolled. No student withdrawing after the 60 percent point in the term will be entitled to a refund of any mandatory fees or nonresident tuition.

For state-supported semesters, quarters, and non-standard terms or courses of less than four (4) weeks, no refunds of mandatory fees and nonresident tuition will be made unless a student cancels registration or drops all classes prior to the first day in accordance with the university’s established procedures and deadlines.

Students will also receive a refund of mandatory fees, including nonresident tuition under the following circumstances:

• The tuition and mandatory fees were assessed or collected in error;
• The course for which the tuition and mandatory fees were assessed or collected was cancelled by the university;
• The university makes a delayed decision that the student was not eligible to enroll in the term for which mandatory fees were assessed and collected and the delayed decision was not due to incomplete or inaccurate information provided by the student; or
• The student was activated for compulsory military service.

Students who are not entitled to a refund as described above may petition the university for a refund demonstrating exceptional circumstances and the chief financial officer of the university or designee may authorize a refund if he or she determines that the fees and tuition were not earned by the university.

Details concerning other fees, which may be refunded, the circumstances under which these fees may be refunded, and the appropriate procedure to be followed in seeking refunds may be obtained by consulting Section 42201 (parking fees) and 42019 (housing charges) of Title 5, California Code of Regulations.

In all cases it is important to act quickly in applying for a refund. Information concerning any aspect of the refund of fees may be obtained from Student Financial Services, Administration 128, (323) 343-3630.

Disenrollment

Students who have a fee obligation to the University will be billed. Payment must be made within 10 days of the invoice date. Failure to pay by the established deadline is cause for disenrollment because of incomplete payment of registration fees. Disenrollment means the permanent loss of credit for classes taken for the quarter involved. There is no refund of any fees already paid for the quarter involved.

Students who fail to complete all required subcollegiate (“remedial”) courses during their first year at Cal State L.A. will be disenrolled from the University in compliance with the CSU Chancellor’s Office Executive Order 665.

State University Installment Plan

The CSU is now authorized to collect State University Fee and Nonresident Tuition in installment payments. The administrative fee for the State University Installment Plan is $22 per academic quarter. The administrative fee for nonresident tuition is 15 percent of each installment payment. For additional information about this plan, please refer to the Schedule of Classes.

Fees and Debts Owed to the Institution

Should a student or former student fail to pay a fee or a debt owed to the institution, the institution may “withhold permission to register, to use facilities for which a fee is authorized to be charged, to receive services, materials, food or merchandise or any combination of the above from any person owing a debt” until the debt is paid (see Title 5, California Code of Regulations, Sections 42380 and 42381).

Prospective students who register for courses offered by the university are obligated for the payment of fees associated with registration for those courses. Failure to cancel registration in any course for an academic term prior to the first day of the academic term gives rise to an obligation to pay student fees including any tuition for the reservation of space in the course.

The institution may withhold permission to register or to receive official transcripts of grades or other services offered by the institution from anyone owing fees or another debt to the institution. If a person believes he or she does not owe all or part of an asserted unpaid obligation that person may contact the campus business office. The business office, or another office on campus to which the business office may refer the person, will review all pertinent information provided by the person and available to the campus and advise the person of its conclusions.

Categories of Enrollment

Credit by Examination

Undergraduate students in good standing and officially enrolled in one or more residence courses may challenge courses by taking examinations developed at the campus. Examinations are interpreted broadly to include whatever activity, test, or demonstration an instructor deems appropriate to evaluate comprehension, skills, or knowledge required by the course objectives. Credit shall be granted to students who pass examinations that have been approved for credit systemwide. These include the Advanced Placement Examinations, the CSU English Equivalency Examination, and some CLEP examinations.

Approval of the chair of the department/division/school that offers the course and an instructor for the course is required. Forms for approval are available in Enrollment Services, Administration 146, and must be filed with the Records Office by the fifth week of the quarter in which the examination is taken. Additional fees must be paid if the added units alter the total fees due for the quarter.

Credit by examination is restricted to undergraduate and graduate courses listed in this catalog. It is without unit limit, but does not count as residence credit. Such credit is not treated as part of the student’s workload during a regular quarter and therefore does not require approval for excess study load. Grades received by examination are recorded as final grades on the permanent academic record and are designated as earned through credit by examination.

Credit earned by examination at another accredited institution is accepted upon transfer, if the units have been accepted by the previous institution as equivalent to specific courses and are not in violation of any other regulations.

Visitors within California State University (CSU)

Students who are enrolled at any CSU campus may transfer temporarily to another CSU campus in visitor status if they have completed 12 units with a minimum C (2.0) grade point average at the home campus, are in good standing, and are eligible to register in continuing status. Visitors are approved for one term only, subject to space availability and registration priority policies at the host campus. Enrollment as a visitor may be repeated after re-enrollment at the home campus. This opportunity may be particularly valuable to students whose educational progress can be enhanced or expedited by attending a summer quarter at Cal State L.A. Concurrent enrollment (see below) is not permitted during visitor status. Visitor applications may be obtained at Student Affairs 101.

Concurrent Enrollment within CSU

Students who are enrolled at any CSU campus may enroll concurrently at another CSU campus if they have completed 12 units at the home campus with a C (2.0) grade point average and are in good standing. Concurrent enrollment is approved for a specific term, subject to space availability and registration priority policies at the host campus. Because of overlap in academic terms of campuses on semester and quarter calendars, concurrent enrollment is subject to combinations and conditions described in the concurrent enrollment application forms available at Student Affairs 101.

Open University

Enrollment through the Open University program, administered by Extended Education, permits nonmatriculated students to enroll in certain regular classes on a space available basis; however, matriculated students in the University who are in continuing status (i.e., students who have registered for at least two of the previous four quarters) may not enroll in degree credit-granting classes offered under state support and made available to students by Extended Education through Open University.

Audit Registration

Regularly enrolled students may register for classes in audit status through add/drop (program change) procedures only as indicated in the Schedule of Classes for audit registration. Such registrations are subject to the same fee regulations as registration for credit, and fees must be paid at the time of registration. Registration for a course in audit status is subject to approval of the instructor and is permitted only after students who desire to enroll on a credit basis have had an opportunity to do so.

Regular class attendance is expected, but audit registrants are not required to complete assignments or take examinations. An audit registration may not be changed to a credit registration after the last day to add classes. No entry about audit registration is made on student grade reports or transcripts.

Dual Registration

Undergraduate students who wish to take classes at another accredited college or university, not within The California State University, while enrolled at Cal State L.A. must file a Notification of Dual Registration at Student Affairs 101 by the end of the third week of the quarter involved. This notification must be endorsed by the student’s Cal State L.A. major department/division/school academic adviser and the department/division/school chair or director for the course(s) involved. Students are advised, also, to consult official evaluators and advisers at the non-CSU campuses where the work is taken to ensure the transferability of course work. Courses so taken are subject to all regulations and limitations governing transfer credit. To receive bachelor’s degree credit for such course work, students must have official transcripts forwarded to the Admissions Office upon completion of the course work.

Change of Program

Students are strongly advised to select classes carefully and to avoid the undesirable necessity of changing their program of study. Adding and dropping classes, including changing sections in the same course, may be done only in accordance with policies, procedures, and time limits stated in the Schedule of Classes. Students who fail to follow these procedures incur the risk of a grade of F or WU.

Withdrawals and Leaves

Withdrawal from Courses

Within the first seven days of the quarter, students may withdraw from any course with no record of the individual course withdrawal on their permanent academic record. After the “no-record drop” deadline, students may withdraw with a W grade from any course, but only for serious and compelling reasons. These requests are granted only with the approval of the instructor and the department/division/school chair or director on program change forms available at Administration 146. Beginning in Fall 2009, undergraduate students will be limited to no more than 27 quarter-units of “W” grades. Grades of “W” assigned prior to Fall 2009 will not apply to the 27 quarter-units limit. Complete information about withdrawals, as well as a sample program change form and withdrawal deadlines for each academic quarter, appears in the Schedule of Classes.

Withdrawals during the final three weeks of instruction are permitted only when the cause of withdrawal (such as accident or serious illness) is clearly beyond the student’s control and assignment of an I (Incomplete) is not practicable. Ordinarily, such withdrawals also involve total withdrawal from the University, except that CR (credit) or I (Incomplete) may be assigned for courses in which the student has completed sufficient work to permit an evaluation. Requests to withdraw under these circumstances are handled as described above, except that such requests must also be endorsed by the dean of the college. Withdrawals during the final three weeks of instruction are not counted toward the 27 quarter-units limit.

Cancellation of Registration or Withdrawal from the Institution

Students who find it necessary to cancel their registration or to withdraw from all classes after enrolling for any academic term are required to follow the university’s official withdrawal procedures. Failure to follow formal university procedures may result in an obligation to pay fees as well as the assignment of failing grades in all courses and the need to apply for readmission before being permitted to enroll in another academic term. Information on canceling registration and withdrawal procedures is available at Administration 146 or by writing a personal request to the Office of Enrollment Services.

Students who receive financial aid funds must consult with a financial aid officer prior to withdrawing from the university regarding any required return or repayment of grant or loan assistance received for that academic term or payment period. If a recipient of student financial aid funds withdraws from the institution during an academic term or a payment period, the amount of grant or loan assistance received may be subject to return and/or repayment provisions.

Leaves of Absence

Students may petition for a leave of absence for such reasons as professional or academic opportunities, like travel or study abroad; employment related to educational goals and major fields of study or participation in field study or research projects; medical reasons, including pregnancy, major surgery, and other health-related circumstances; and financial reasons, such as the necessity to work for a specified period to resume study with adequate resources. Petition forms are available at Administration 146.

Evaluation of petitions for leaves of absence takes into account the student’s stated plans and the extent to which a leave would contribute to educational objectives. Students are expected to plan their time of return and their activities during the leave. They must also state why it is critical to remain in continuous residence. In the case of medical or financial leaves, they must state how they plan to remain current with or advance in their academic field.

Undergraduate students may request a leave for no fewer than 3 and no more than 8 quarters. Graduate students are granted a maximum of 4 quarters, subject to renewal. Continuing students’ allowed absence of 2 quarters is included in these maximums.

Petitions must be filed at Administration 146 after action by the department/division/school chair or director (also the college graduate dean in the case of graduate students) no later than 3 weeks before the end of the quarter before the proposed leave. Approval entitles students to continuing status for registration purposes if they return no later than the quarter specified in their petition. Continuing students who return from a leave are entitled to priority registration privileges and are not required to file an application for readmission.

Undergraduate students retain current catalog requirements for graduation; classified postbaccalaureate and graduate students retain classified standing. Unclassified postbaccalaureate and conditionally classified graduate students who have an approved program on file in their college graduate studies office are subject to the conditions of those programs. All others are subject to the requirements in effect when they return.

Transcript of Academic Record

A transcript of Cal State L.A. course work is issued upon written request by the student. Transcript request forms are available at Administration 146, on the Cal State L.A. Web Page and on the GET website. The cost of a single transcript is $4. When more than one transcript is ordered at the same time, the first copy costs $4, the second through tenth copies cost $2 each, and any copies in excess of ten cost $1 each. The form requires the name used by the student while in attendance, the birth date, and the nine digit Campus Identification Number (CIN).

Copies normally are mailed one week after receipt of request. However, requests that specify inclusion of grades just earned or verification of a degree just awarded cannot be filled until two to three weeks after the end of the quarter.

Course Numbering System

Course Numbers

Subcollegiate, undergraduate, graduate, and noncredit courses are numbered as shown below.

000–099 Subcollegiate level (no credit allowed toward requirements for academic degrees).

100–299 Lower division courses (freshman and sophomore level).

300–399 Upper division courses (junior and senior level) that do not earn graduate credit.

400–499 Upper division courses (junior and senior level) that may earn graduate credit for graduate students.

500–599 Graduate courses for graduate students only.

600–699 Specialized graduate courses for postgraduate students matriculated in the joint Ph.D. program in Special Education.

700–749 Courses intended primarily for lower division students. Not acceptable toward degree or credential programs at Cal State L.A., but acceptable for professional advancement credit. Unit value credit listed directly after course title on academic record is acceptable for professional advancement credit only when accompanied by CR (Credit) grade.

750–799 Courses intended primarily for upper division students. Not acceptable toward degree or credential programs at Cal State L.A., but acceptable for professional advancement credit. Unit value credit listed directly after course title on academic record is acceptable for professional advancement credit only when accompanied by CR (Credit) grade.

800–899 Highly specialized courses intended primarily for graduate students. Not acceptable toward degree or credential programs at Cal State L.A., but acceptable for professional advancement credit. Unit value credit listed directly after course title on academic record is acceptable for professional advancement credit only when accompanied by CR (Credit) grade.

900 Noncredit courses open to graduate students only.  Courses in the 900 series (UNIV 900) are open only to graduate students who have previously enrolled in all allowable research units (597) and are not enrolled in any other credit-bearing courses or thesis or project units (599) but will use University facilities or consult with faculty.

Course Suffixes

Many course numbers have letter suffixes. Although many indicate special uses of the course within a particular department/division/school, some suffixes are standard throughout the University.

A, B, C, D, E A sequence of courses in which A must be taken before B, B before C, etc., unless description indicates otherwise.

C, K, S Sections of regular courses taught primarily in Cantonese (Chinese), Korean, or Spanish, usually as part of bilingual/crosscultural teacher training program. These suffixes appear in course listings in the Schedule of Classes and on transcripts, but not generally in the catalog.

H Open to students who are enrolled in the General Education Honors Program only.

IP Class taught in independently self-paced mode; hours arranged between student and instructor.

L Lecture.

M Open to students in Master of Fine Arts degree program inArt only.

N Upper division course intended for students not majoring in the department/division/school that offers it; usually has different kinds of prerequisites; student in major may not count course in major program, but may include it as an elective outside the major.

P Practicum, laboratory, or activity.

R Open to conditionally classified graduate students only.

Course Prerequisites and Corequisites

Students are responsible for fulfilling prerequisites and corequisites. The instructor and department/division/school have the authority to waive specific prerequisites and/or corequisites for students who have completed equivalent courses at another institution, who have had  equivalent experience (such as work experience), or who possess the requisite skills to proceed with the work of the course. Students should consult the instructor before registering to determine whether the course(s) or experience they present will justify waiver of the stated prerequisite(s) and/or corequisite(s).

Course Abbreviations

Each academic discipline has an official course abbreviation that is used to identify the discipline in this catalog; on grade reports, transcripts, major program sheets, and many other documents; and in the Schedule of Classes. These course abbreviations, which are listed below, must be used on all program change forms.

Grading System

Undergraduate Grades

Graduate and Postbaccalaureate Grades*

Explanation of Undergraduate Course Grades*

Definitions of Administrative Grading Symbols

Marks other than letter grades used to indicate status in courses undertaken have the following meanings:

CR is used to denote “passed with credit” when no traditional letter grade is given, is assigned to undergraduate grades of C (grade point 2.0 or higher) or better and to graduate grades of B (grade point 3.0 or higher) or better. CR grades are not included in the calculation of the grade point average.

NC is used to denote “no credit” when no traditional letter grade is given, is assigned to undergraduate grades lower than C (grade point lower than 2.0) and to graduate grades lower than B (grade point lower than 3.0). NC grades are not included in the calculation of the grade point average.

RP (Report in Progress) is used for thesis, project, dissertation, and similar approved courses in which assigned work frequently extends beyond one academic quarter–and may include enrollment in more than one quarter. The RP indicates that the student’s performance has been evaluated and found to be satisfactory but that further work must be completed before a final grade (or grades) can properly be assigned for any part of the course. Enrollment for more units of credit than the total number of units that can be applied toward the fulfillment of the student’s educational objective is prohibited. The RP symbol shall be replaced with the appropriate final grade within one year of its assignment except for courses associated with the master’s degree thesis (courses numbered 597, 598, 599, and 900) and with the doctoral dissertation (courses numbered 698 and 699) in which case the time limit shall be five years. An RP does not add earned units and does not affect grade point average calculations.

An RP that has not been replaced by a final grade within the prescribed time limit for the course shall be changed to NC. Extensions of time to remove RP grades may be granted by the Curriculum Subcommittee (for undergraduate courses) or the appropriate College Graduate Dean (for graduate courses) for contingencies such as–but not limited to–military service and health problems of an incapacitating nature verified by a physician’s statement.

W (Withdrawal) indicates that a student was permitted to drop a course after the “no-record drop” deadline with the approval of the instructor and the department/division/school chair or director. The W carries no connotation of quality of student performance and is not used in calculating grade point averages.

RD (Report Delayed) this symbol is used exclusively by the Registrar when a delay in the reporting of a grade is caused by circumstances that are beyond the student’s control. The symbol does not imply any academic evaluation. Any “RD” grade must be cleared before the degree can be awarded. Once the degree has been posted, no grade changes can be made to the record.

I, IC (Incomplete) an Incomplete grade is an interim grade designed for students who are passing but who through extenuating circumstances have not been able to complete part of the work of the course. An Incomplete grade is assigned at the discretion of the faculty member only when significant elements of the course requirements have not been met. An Incomplete will not be assigned when it is necessary for the student to attend a major portion of the class when it is next offered.

It is the responsibility of the student to request a grade of Incomplete from the instructor and to determine from the instructor the remaining course requirements that must be satisfied to remove the Incomplete. The conditions for removal of the Incomplete including due date shall be specified in writing by the instructor and given to the student with a copy placed on file with the appropriate campus officer until the Incomplete is removed or the time limit for removal has passed. This “Incomplete Grade Agreement” must specify the outstanding course requirements and the final grade to be given based on the evaluation of the outstanding work. This time limitation applies whether or not the student maintains continuous attendance.

An Incomplete (I) grade may be removed by completing the outstanding work by the date specified on the incomplete grade agreement which must be within one calendar year after the end of the quarter in which the Incomplete grade was assigned.

An Incomplete that is made up within the time period allowed will be replaced on the student’s permanent academic record by the letter grade earned followed by an indication that the original grade was an Incomplete and the date that the Incomplete was removed.

An Incomplete that is not removed within the time period allowed will appear on the student’s permanent academic record as an IC (Incomplete Charged) and will be charged as an F in grade point average computations.

An Incomplete that is not removed before the degree is awarded will be charged as an “F” in the grade point average computations. Upon expiration of an Incomplete grade, the student’s permanent academic record will be modified to reflect the number of units attempted and zero units earned. Any petition for extension of time to remove an Incomplete must be filed within one calendar year immediately after the end of the quarter in which it was assigned. A petition must include documentation establishing the reasons the course could not be completed prior to the expiration of the initial one year period. Petitions must be signed by the course instructor with an indication whether the instructor recommends the petition be approved or denied. The final decision regarding extension of Incompletes rests with the Deans of Graduate or Undergraduate Studies, as appropriate.

WU (Unauthorized Withdrawal) indicates that an enrolled student did not withdraw from the course but failed to complete course requirements. It is used when, in the opinion of the instructor, completed assignments or course activities or both were insufficient to make normal evaluation of academic performance possible. For purposes of grade point average this symbol is equivalent to an F.

Nontraditional Grading Options

Undergraduates may choose to receive grades on a nontraditional basis, either A, B, C, NC, or CR/NC, under specified conditions. Some courses are graded only nontraditionally, as shown in course descriptions. In addition, students in good standing who have completed at least 12
units at Cal State L.A. and students admitted with upper division standing may elect to have some courses graded on either the traditional or the nontraditional basis. CR and NC grades are not included in grade point average computations.

CR/NC Option. Courses for which a student may not elect to be graded on a CR/NC basis are those courses required in the student’s major, minor, or credential program and other courses selected to meet general education requirements. A maximum of 45 quarter units may be graded CR/NC, whether elected or designated. A maximum of 8 quarter units elected CR/NC may be taken in any single quarter.

A, B, C/NC Option. Courses for which a student may not elect to be graded A, B, C/NC are those required in the student’s major, minor, or credential program; however, any general education or elective course may be taken with A, B, C/NC grading. A maximum of 45 quarter units within the total degree program may be graded A, B, C, NC, whether elected or designated.

Students may elect to register for a course with a nontraditional grading option up to the last date in the quarter to add classes. The decision to elect an option is irrevocable. Academic standards are identical for all students who are enrolled in a course, irrespective of the grading option. Instructors are not notified that students have elected nontraditional grading options in their courses; traditional grades are reported and are converted as needed to CR or NC by the Registrar.  

Scholastic Status of Undergraduate Students

Grades Required for Credit

Students are advised that they receive no credit for any course in which they do not earn a grade of D- or higher.

Grade Point Average Requirements

Undergraduate students are expected to maintain a C (2.0) average in all courses attempted at Cal State L.A. and any other college or university attended and to make satisfactory progress toward their academic objectives. Students who receive financial aid should inform themselves of additional criteria defining satisfactory progress by consulting the Center for Student Financial Aid.

Probation for Undergraduate Students

Probation is determined separately for academic and administrative-academic deficiencies. Students’ probation status is indicated on their grade report.

Academic Probation

Students are placed on academic probation at the end of a quarter if either their grade point average at Cal State L.A. or their cumulative grade point average in all college work attempted falls below C (2.0). They are continued on academic probation until their Cal State L.A. and cumulative grade point average is 2.0 or higher or until they are disqualified in accordance with the regulations for academic disqualification.

Grade Point Average

The grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of units attempted. Grade points are assigned for each unit of course work undertaken, as follows:

CR and NC grades are not included in grade point average computations.

Administrative-Academic Probation

The Office of the Chancellor has made provision whereby students may be placed on administrative-academic probation for any of the following reasons:

• Withdrawal from all or a substantial portion of courses for which they registered in two successive quarters or in any three quarters.
• Repeated failure to progress toward a stated degree or program objective when such failure is within their control.
• Failure to comply, after due notice, with a routine academic requirement or regulation.

Written notice is given of the conditions required for removal from administrative- academic probation, as well as circumstances that would lead to disqualification if probation is not rectified.

Disqualification of Undergraduate Students

Disqualification is determined separately for academic and administrative-academic deficiencies. Students’ disqualification status is indicated on their grade report.

Academic Disqualification

Students currently on probation or special probation whose Cal State L.A. or cumulative grade point average reaches the following levels are disqualified:

Administrative-Academic Disqualification

The Office of the Chancellor has made provision whereby students placed on administrative-academic probation may be disqualified for any of the following reasons:

• The conditions for removal of administrative-academic probation are not met within the period specified.
• Students become subject to academic probation while on administrative-academic probation.
• Students become subject to a new administrative-academic probation period for the same or similar reasons of a previous probationary period, although not currently in such status.

Notification of Disqualification

Students’ notices of disqualification appear on their unofficial transcript in GET. Students who wish to appeal their disqualification should refer to Immediate Reinstatement below. Disqualified students are required to arrange an exit interview with their academic adviser to establish readmission requirements. Undeclared majors will hold this exit interview with their assigned adviser in the University Academic Advisement Center.

Immediate Reinstatement

Disqualified students may submit a petition for immediate reinstatement to their college dean or designee (department chair in the Colleges of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology and Natural and Social Sciences) after first meeting with your academic adviser. The University Academic Advisement Center will rule on petitions for immediate reinstatement for undeclared majors after their exit interview has taken place. Students’ approved petitions must be received in Enrollment Services, Administration 146, by the end of the third week of the quarter after disqualification.

Immediate reinstatement may be granted for not more than two successive quarters to students who are pursuing the program in which disqualification was incurred, including an undeclared major. Students who are admitted with a grade point average less than 2.0 on transfer work and whose grades at Cal State L.A. alone are not the basis for disqualification may qualify for immediate reinstatement in additional quarters.

Students who are enrolled but not officially reinstated for the quarter after disqualification should file a request for complete withdrawal and full refund of fees by the end of the third week of the quarter. Official withdrawal and refund application forms are available at Administration 146. Complete withdrawal may also be accomplished by writing to the Registrar’s Office. Registration will be cancelled for disqualified students who are enrolled and do not file a withdrawal request; fees are not returned in these cases.

Special Probation

All disqualified students who are reinstated or readmitted are placed on special probation because their grade point average is less than is allowed for their class level as outlined above. These students are required to earn better than a C (2.0) grade point average each quarter until their grade point average is increased to a level that is higher than that which would normally cause them to be disqualified according to their class level. Students who withdraw completely from any quarter while on special probation will again be disqualified.

Readmission of Disqualified Students

Readmission after disqualification is not automatic. Disqualified students will not be considered for readmission until at least two quarters have elapsed. Procedures and regulations governing readmission of disqualified students are found in the Admissions chapter of this catalog.

Disenrollment for Failure to Complete Required Subcollegiate Courses

Executive Order 665 requires that all first-time entering students in the California State University system who are not exempt from the English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry Level Math (ELM) exam take these exams before enrolling in any courses and, if remediation is required, enroll in appropriate English and/or math course(s) in their first quarter of attendance. The policy stipulates that students must continue to enroll in appropriate level course(s) each quarter until they are eligible for college level English and/or math. Students have three consecutive academic quarters, starting with their first quarter at Cal State L.A., to complete these requirements. In addition, campus policy requires that students move directly into their college level English and/or math course(s) the first quarter they enroll after completing the
remedial course(s) in that field.

Scholastic Status of Graduate and Postbaccalaureate Students

Grades Required for Credit

Graduate students are advised that they receive no credit for any course in which they do not earn a grade of C or higher. Grades of C– and below are considered failing grades in all graduate programs.

Grade Point Requirements

Graduate students are expected to maintain a B (3.0) average in all courses attempted at Cal State L.A. and any other college or university attended and to make satisfactory progress toward their academic objectives. Students who receive financial aid should inform themselves of additional criteria defining satisfactory progress by consulting the Center for Student Financial Aid.

Postbaccalaureate students are expected to maintain a 2.5 average in all courses attempted at Cal State L.A. and any other college or university attended and to make satisfactory progress toward their academic objectives.

Grade Point Average

The grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of units attempted. Grade points are assigned for each unit of course work undertaken, as indicated in the Explanation of Grades table above.

Thus, students who earn a grade of C in a 4-unit course have 4 grade points fewer than the number they would have earned with a grade of B and are, therefore, deficient 4 grade points from a B average (–4 grade points). Students who earn an A grade in a 4-unit course have four grade points more than they would have earned with a B grade (+4 grade points). The overall grade point deficiency or surplus can be computed by assigning the number of plus or minus grade points for each unit attempted and adding algebraically. CR and NC grades are not included in grade point average computations.

Academic Probation for Postbaccalaureate and Graduate Students

Postbaccalaureate and graduate students are subject to academic probation if their grade point average falls below the levels specified below either in course work on their master’s degree program or in all units completed after becoming classified, whether or not the course work is taken at Cal State L.A.

• Classified and conditionally classified graduate students are expected to maintain a b (3.0) grade point average in course work on their master’s degree program and in all courses completed after admission to the program.
• Postbaccalaureate classified and postbaccalaureate unclassified students are expected to maintain a 2.5 grade point average in all course work taken after admission to Cal State L.A., whether or not the course work is taken at Cal State L.A.

Administrative-Academic Probation.

The Office of the Chancellor has made provision whereby students may be placed on administrative-academic probation for any of the following reasons:

• Withdrawal from all or a substantial portion of courses for which they registered in two successive quarters or in any three quarters.
• Repeated failure to progress toward a stated degree or program objective when such failure is within their control.
• Failure to comply, after due notice, with a routine academic requirement or regulation.

Notice is given in writing of the conditions for removal from administrative-academic probation, as well as circumstances that would lead to disqualification should probation conditions not be rectified.

Disqualification Regulations for Postbaccalaureate and Graduate Students

Postbaccalaureate and graduate students who are on academic probation and who do not meet the requirements of their probation are subject to disqualification in accordance with the following guidelines:

• Classified and conditionally classified graduate students who are on academic probation are subject to disqualification from pursuing the master’s degree program in which they were classified if after being placed on scholastic probation they do not raise their average to B (3.0) after completion of 16 units or two quarters in residence, whichever comes later.
• Classified and conditionally classified graduate students whose grade point average falls more than nine grade points below B (3.0) will be disqualified from pursuing the master’s degree program in which they were classified.
• Students who are disqualified from a master’s degree program may not reenter that program. They may be admitted to another program only on the recommendation of the new major department/division concerned and with the approval of the appropriate college graduate dean.
• Postbaccalaureate classified and postbaccalaureate unclassified students who are on academic probation are subject to disqualification from pursuing course work at Cal State L.A. IF they do not raise their average to 2.5 after completion of 16 units or two quarters in residence, whichever comes later.
• All units earned in the quarter in which the sixteenth unit is completed will be used in computing the grade point average.
• Students disqualified for scholarship deficiency may not enroll in any regular quarter at Cal State L.A. without permission from the appropriate college graduate dean and may be denied admission to other educational programs operated or sponsored by the campus.
• Students who are enrolled in graduate degree programs, credential programs, and postbaccalaureate credit certificate programs are not eligible for Academic Renewal.
• Postbaccalaureate students who are pursuing a second or subsequent baccalaureate are subject to the same probation and disqualification standards as seniors. These are outlined in the Procedures and Regulations section near the front of this catalog.

The Office of the Chancellor has made provision whereby postbaccalaureate and graduate students who are on academic-administrative probation may be disqualified for any of the following reasons:

• The conditions for removal of administrative-academic probation are not met within the period specified.
• Students become subject to academic probation while on administrative-academic probation.
• Students become subject to a new administrative-academic probation period for the same or similar reasons of a previous probationary period, although not currently in such status.

Student Conduct: Rights and Responsibilities

Standards for Student Conduct

The University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy living and learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. Each member of the campus community must choose behaviors that contribute toward this end. Students are expected to be good citizens and to engage in responsible behaviors that reflect well upon their university, to be civil to one another and to others in the campus community, and to contribute positively to student and university life.

Student behavior that is not consistent with the Student Conduct Code (Subsection 41301 of Title 5, California Code of Regulations) is addressed through an educational process that is designed to promote safety and good citizenship and, when necessary, impose appropriate consequences. Reports of student misconduct should be directed to the Judicial Affairs Officer in the Student Affairs Building, Room 117. Please refer to Appendix E in the University Catalog for a detailed list of the grounds upon which student discipline can be based. Copies of the Student Conduct Code and the Student Conduct Procedures (CSU Executive Order 970), which govern enforcement of these regulations, are also available in Student Affairs, Room 117 or online at http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/jao/

Academic Honesty

The University in its quest for truth and knowledge embraces honesty and integrity. These fundamental values must not be compromised. The trust and respect among professors, students and the society need to be vigilantly protected. Cheating and plagiarism can be neither justified nor condoned as this would destroy the ideals and purposes of higher education. Students enter the University to gain the knowledge and tools necessary for participation in society. Academic integrity is one foundation for a society based on trust and honesty. Therefore, the University takes seriously its responsibility for academic honesty.

The following are included as violations of the Academic Honesty Policy (See Appendix D in the University Catalog):

• Cheating-the act of obtaining or attempting to obtain credit for academic work through the use of any dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means.
• Plagiarism-the act of using ideas, words, or work of another person or persons as if they were one’s own, without giving proper credit to the original sources.
• Misrepresentation-Knowingly furnishing false academic information to a University official, faculty member, or campus office.
• Collusion-Any student who intentionally helps another student perform any of the above acts of cheating, plagiarism or misrepresentation.

Academic Consequences:

Faculty members have the right to establish the standards by which the academic performance of students will be evaluated, including the consequences of students not meeting some portion or all of the academic requirements of a course through acts of cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation or collusion. These consequences may include but are not limited to assigning a lowered grade, zero or “F” on an individual assignment, or lowering the student’s grade or assigning an “F” in the course. A faculty member may alternatively permit the student to repeat an assignment/test or complete and submit additional assignments.

Administrative Sanctions:

Cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty that are intended to gain unfair academic advantage also violate the Student Conduct Code (Subsection 41301 of Title 5, California Code of Regulations). To that end, violations of the Academic Honesty Policy should also be reported to the Judicial Affairs Officer. The University can impose administrative sanctions in addition to academic consequences. As stipulated in Executive Order 970, Student Conduct Procedures, among other places, cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation or collusion, in connection with an academic program or campus may warrant, but is not necessarily limited to Disciplinary Probation, Suspension or Expulsion. Repeat offenders will receive particular consideration for administrative sanctions. Please note that a record of all disciplinary charges, including cheating and plagiarism, will be maintained in the Judicial Affairs Office for a minimum of five years. Disciplinary files are separate from academic files and subject to disclosure to third parties by prior written consent of the student, or a court ordered subpoena.

Reporting Procedures:

When satisfied that a reasonable evidentiary standard has been met and as soon as possible after discovering the alleged violation, the faculty member should arrange an office conference in order to inform the student of the allegations and of the due process rights. At the conference, the student should be informed of the supporting evidence and the consequences and procedures regarding academic dishonesty. A student may appeal an accusation of academic dishonesty and any academic consequences of such an accusation under the conditions set forth in the Academic Grievance/Grade Appeals Policy. Copies of the Academic Honesty Policy and the Interim Academic Grievance /Grade Appeal Policy are available in the Student Affairs Building, Room 117 or online at: http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/jao/

Student Grievances

A grievance is a formal complaint by a student arising from an alleged unauthorized or unjustified act or decision by a member of the faculty, staff, and/or management employee which adversely affects the status, rights, or privileges of a student. Student Grievance Procedures have been established to provide safeguards that protect the rights of all concerned parties and insure that grievances are handled fairly. These procedures are one channel for solving problems; however, they should not take the place of negotiating in good faith or open, honest communication.

To that end, students are expected to attempt to resolve the dispute informally before filing a formal grievance. The procedures and timelines for informal resolution are outlined in the Student Grievance Procedures. In the event that they are not able to resolve the matter informally, students may file a formal grievance to be considered by the University Student Grievance Committee (USGC). The formal grievance should be submitted to the Judicial Affairs Officer, located in the Student Affairs Building, Room 117. Please refer to Appendix I in the University Catalog for a copy of the official Student Grievance Procedures.

Students wishing to appeal a course grade or other academic decision should refer to the Academic Grievance/Grade Appeals Policy. This includes, but is not limited to appeals of an accusation of academic dishonesty and any academic consequences of such an accusation. As with the Student Grievance Procedures, students must attempt to resolve the dispute informally before filing a formal grade appeal or other academic grievance.

Copies of the Student Grievance Procedures and the Interim Academic Grievance/Grade Appeals Policy are available in Student Affairs, Room 117 or online at: http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/jao/

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities (See Appendix J in this Catalog) enumerates the rights guaranteed to, and the responsibilities of, all Cal State L.A. students.

These include, but are not limited to Academic Advisement, Freedom of Expression, Academic Evaluation, Instructional Practice, Writing and Plagiarism, Access to Official Records and Information, Freedom of Information, Freedom of Access to Higher Education and Freedom of Association.

Copies of this document are available in SA 117 or at http://www.calstatela.edu/univ/stuaffrs/jao/

Intellectual Property

The CSU Chancellor’s office defines Intellectual Property as: Unauthorized recording, dissemination, and publication of academic presentations for commercial purposes. This prohibition applies to a recording made in any medium, including, but not limited to, handwritten or typewritten class notes.

1. The term “academic presentation” means any lecture, speech, performance, exhibition, or other form of academic or aesthetic presentation, made by an instructor of record as part of an authorized course of instruction that is not fixed in a tangible medium of expression.
2. The term “commercial purpose” means any purpose that has financial or economic gain as an objective.
3. “Instructor of record” means any teacher or staff member employed to teach courses and authorize credit for the successful completion of courses.
   (See the Student Discipline Policy, Appendix E.)

Policy on the Prohibition of Sexual Harassment

California State University, Los Angeles, will take action to prevent and eliminate sexual harassment, as mandated by Chancellor’s Executive Order No. 927.

Sexual harassment is conduct subject to disciplinary action, including termination. Sexual harassment* includes but is not limited to:

• Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
• Any act that contributes to a workplace or learning environment that is hostile, intimidating, offensive, or adverse to persons because of the sexual nature of the conduct.
• Conditioning an act, decision, evaluation, or recommendation on the submission to or tolerance of any act of a sexual nature.

Although this policy focuses on the treatment of persons lacking or holding lesser authority by persons possessing greater authority, it does not preclude the possibility that sexual harassment may also be perpetrated by persons lacking or holding lesser authority, e.g., employees, students, or applicants. In determining whether conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the circumstances surrounding the conduct are considered.

The prohibition against sexual harassment applies to all transactions of University business, whether on or off campus.

Individuals with supervisory authority are responsible for reporting a formal complaint about sexual harassment to the Office for Equity and Diversity. Failure to do so may lead to appropriate administrative action.

Specific rules and procedures for reporting charges of sexual harassment and for pursuing available remedies are available in the following locations: Office for Human Resources Management, Office for Equity and Diversity; Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs; University Counseling Center; and Women’s Resource Center.

For questions about sexual harassment, please contact the Office for Equity and Diversity, Administration 606, (323) 343- 3040.

*The parameters of “sexual harassment” are legally defined by State and Federal statutes and Court decisions. While the policy set forth above describes actions, which fall generally within the scope of “sexual harassment,” all CSU employees and students are required to conduct themselves in a manner that avoids sexual harassment as defined by State and Federal law.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT COMPLAINT:

If you feel you have experienced sexual harassment, please make your concern known. You may file a complaint with the Office for Equity and Diversity located in Administration 606 or contact the Office at (323) 343-3040.

Your concerns will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and objectively. If corrective action is appropriate, it will be taken. No action will be taken against you for filing your complaint, so long as you believe the complaint to be valid.

APPEAL PROCEDURES:

• If a complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint process described above, he/she may file a written appeal with the President or the President’s designee within five (5) working days of receipt of the decision from the Equity and Diversity Specialist. The appeal shall outline the basis upon which the complainant believes the appeal should be granted.
• The President or the President’s designee will acknowledge receipt of the appeal within five (5) working days and will, within twenty (20) working days, provide a written decision to the complainant and respondent. The President’s decision will be the final University decision.

Campus Nonviolence Policy

California State University, Los Angeles is committed to creating and maintaining a working, learning, and social environment for all members of the University community that is free from violence.

Civility, understanding, and mutual respect toward all members of the University community are intrinsic to excellence in teaching and learning, to the existence of a safe and healthful workplace, and to maintenance of a campus culture and environment that serves the needs of its many constituencies. Threats of violence or acts of violence not only impact the individuals concerned, but also the mission of the University to foster higher education through open dialogue and the free exchange of ideas. The University prohibits and will take decisive action to eliminate verbal harassment, violent acts, threats of violence, or any other behavior that by intent, action, or outcome harms another person. Such conduct is subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from employment, expulsion from the University, or civil or criminal prosecution as appropriate.

The University has no tolerance for violence against and by members of the University community. To fulfill this policy, the University will work to prevent violence from occurring and will ensure that federal and state laws, as well as University regulations prohibiting violence, are fully enforced. In determining whether conduct constitutes a credible threat or act of violence, the circumstances surrounding the conduct will be considered.

Established University faculty, staff, and student and Department of Public Safety procedures will serve as mechanisms for resolving situations of violence or threats of violence. Each allegation of violence or threat of violence will be taken seriously. Individuals are encouraged to report acts of violence, threats of violence, or any other behavior that by intent, act or outcome harms another person.

Approved by the Cal State L.A. Academic Senate and President James M. Rosser - Summer 1996

Compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

California State University, Los Angeles, does not permit discrimination on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operation of its instruction, programs, services, or activities, or in its hiring and employment practices. Also, the University does not permit harassment based on a protected disability. In addition, the University does not permit discrimination or harassment based on an applicant’s, employee’s, or student’s relationship with or association with anyone with a known protected disability.

Upon request, the University will consider reasonable accommodation(s) when needed to facilitate the participation of persons with protected disabilities. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to permit individuals with protected disabilities to: (a) complete the admission/ employment process; (b) perform essential job functions; (c) participate in instruction, programs, services or activities; and, (d) enjoy other benefits and privileges of similarly-situated individuals without disabilities.

Questions, concerns, complaints and requests for reasonable accommodation or additional information may be forwarded to the Office for Equity and Diversity, the campus office assigned responsibility for compliance with the ADA. The Office for Equity and Diversity is located in Administration 606 and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (323) 343-3040, or TDD: (323) 343-3670.

Familiarity with the institution’s rules and regulations published in this catalog shall be the responsibility of each student and faculty member, and of those administrators concerned with academic matters.

ADA Complaint

If you feel you have experienced discrimination or harassment due to your protected disability in connection with your association with the University, please make your concerns known. You may file a complaint with the Office for Equity and Diversity, located in Administration 606.

Your concerns will be treated carefully, and investigated promptly, thoroughly, and objectively. If corrective action is appropriate, it will be taken. No action will be taken against you for filing your complaint, so long as you believe the complaint to be valid.

Nondiscrimination Statement

California State University, Los Angeles, affirms its commitment to equality of opportunity for all individuals. This commitment requires that no discrimination shall occur in any program or activity of the University on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, age (over 40), marital status; political affiliation, sexual orientation, disabled veteran’s status, Vietnam Era veteran’s status, or any other classification that precludes a person from consideration as an individual. Further, the University’s commitment requires that no retaliation shall occur because an individual filed a complaint of discrimination or in some other way opposed discriminatory practices, or participated in an investigation related to such a complaint. This policy is in accord with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, as amended, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Act of 1974, and related administrative regulations and executive orders. Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX, Sections 503 and 504, and other nondiscrimination laws may be referred to the Office for Equity and Diversity (Telephone: [323] 343-3040), the campus office assigned the administrative responsibility of reviewing such matters. Title IX inquiries may also be directed to the Regional Director of the Office for Civil Rights, Region IX, Old Federal Building, 50 United Nations Plaza, Room 239, San Francisco, CA 94102.

Discrimination Complaint

If you feel you have experienced discrimination or harassment due to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identification, marital status, pregnancy, age, disability, or veteran status in connection with your association with the University, please make your concerns known. You may file a complaint with the Office for Equity and Diversity, located in Administration 606.

Your concerns will be treated carefully and be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and objectively. If corrective action is appropriate, it will be taken. No action will be taken against you for filing your complaint, so long as you believe the complaint to be valid.

Consensual Sexual Relations between Faculty and Students*

(Senate: 7/29/97; President: 12/4/97)

“Sexual relations between students and faculty members with whom they also have an academic or evaluative relationship are fraught with the potential for exploitation. The respect and trust accorded a professor by a student, as well as the power exercised by the professor in an academic or evaluative role, make voluntary consent by the student suspect. Even when both parties initially have consented, the development of a sexual relationship renders both the faculty member and the institution vulnerable to possible later allegations of sexual harassment in light of the significant power differential that exists between faculty members and students.”

“In their relationships with students, members of the faculty are expected to be aware of their professional responsibilities and avoid apparent or actual conflict of interest, favoritism, or bias.”

It is unprofessional conduct for a faculty member to engage in any sexual relationship with a student while he or she is enrolled in that faculty member’s class, or if a faculty member is acting in any other capacity that may directly affect the student’s academic career.

Failure to follow these standards will be grounds for investigation for disciplinary action.

*the language in quotation marks is the statement that was adopted by the 81st annual meeting of A.A.U.P.

Student Use of Human Subjects or Animals

Students, like all others in the University community, must follow established University and federal guidelines when using human subjects or animals either in research or as part of a course activity. Prior approval by either the Institutional Review Board for research involving human subjects or the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee for research involving animals must be obtained. The committees meet at regularly scheduled times and it is crucial to give notice of the impending research or course use as far in advance as possible.

For further information, please contact the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (323) 343-5366 or visit its Website at www.calstatela.edu/academic/orsp.

Immigration Requirements for Licensure

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-193), also known as the Welfare Reform Act, includes provisions to eliminate eligibility for federal and state public benefits for certain categories of lawful immigrants as well as benefits for all illegal immigrants.

Students who will require a professional or commercial license provided by a local, state, or federal government agency in order to engage in an occupation for which the CSU may be training them must meet the immigration requirements of the new Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act to achieve licensure. Information concerning the regulation is available from International Programs and Services (323) 343-3170.