Program Overview

Introduction to Open University

The Open University program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) offers flexible options for individuals pursuing career advancement, updating their skills, or considering a career change. It also caters to those exploring personal educational interests or preparing for another degree.

Program Highlights

• Diverse Course Offerings and Flexibility: CSUN offers a vast selection of over 6,000 courses annually across 109 fields and disciplines. This allows individuals to enhance their current professional skills, explore new areas of expertise, or pursue a personal intellectual adventure.
• Seamless Enrollment and Recognition: The program features a one-time enrollment process, after which participants can return to take additional courses in future terms without needing to sign up again. All completed courses appear on the official CSUN transcript, ensuring formal recognition of educational achievements. These courses are also transferable to other institutions and can be applied towards a CSUN degree.
• Year-Round Access and Online Convenience: The Open University program operates year-round, offering courses in various formats to fit different schedules. During the Winter Term and Summer Sessions, fully online courses are available, providing flexibility to learn from anywhere. Additionally, during the Fall and Spring semesters, online, in-person, and hybrid course options are offered.

Eligibility and Enrollment

• Who Can Enroll: Eligible participants include CSUN alumni, those not currently admitted and enrolled in a degree or certificate program at CSUN, visiting international students, and current CSUN students (only during Winter Session). Student enrollment is on a space-available basis, with non-restrictive registration occurring after CSUN admitted students have been given a reasonable first opportunity to register.

Program Benefits

• No Formal Application or University Admission Process: Participants can enjoy the convenience of enrolling in courses without undergoing a formal application or university admission process.
• Access to University Resources: Enrollment in the Open University program provides access to the university library and resources, enhancing the learning experience.
• Transferable Units: Participants can earn up to 24 transferable units towards a bachelor's degree and 9 units towards a master's degree.

Academic Departments and Contacts

For academic questions or to request permission numbers for enrollment, participants can contact the department of the academic college. The university comprises several colleges, including:

• David Nazarian College of Business and Economics
• Michael D. Eisner College of Education
• Mike Curb College of Arts, Media and Communication
• College of Engineering and Computer Science
• College of Health and Human Development
• College of Humanities
• College of Science and Mathematics
• College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Each college has its own dean and department contacts for specific areas of study, ensuring that participants can find the support and information they need for their academic pursuits.