Every CSU Global student is assigned a dedicated Student Success Counselor who acts as a single point of communication for a variety of areas, who will guide a student through every step of the way from enrollment to graduation.
Student Success Counselors are here to help with degree planning and financial aid, checking in on how class is going, and connecting students with the CSU Global student resources and services that help them achieve success in the classroom and beyond.
Here are a few of the most common questions our Student Success Team receives.
(Need to reach out to your Student Success Counselor? Login to your Student Portal and click their contact info on the blue left navigation panel.)
All About Degree Planning
- How many courses do I have to complete?
- The number of courses you’ll complete will vary depending on your level (undergraduate or graduate), the program (certificate or degree), any applied transfer credits, and your major. To determine how many courses you need to complete, please access the Degree Progress Details link within your Student Portal or schedule an appointment with your assigned Student Success Counselor.
- What is a specialization? Do I need one for my degree?
- Specializations are similar to a minor and consist of 15 credits for undergraduate and 12 credits for graduate specializations. These are optional for undergraduate students but are required for most graduate programs. For a detailed list and description of each specialization, review the Academic Catalog or ask your Student Success Counselor for more information.
- What are electives? How many electives do I need?
- Undergraduate electives are where you have some choices and can take courses that interest you even though they may not be directly related to your field of study. The number of elective credits needed varies based on transfer credits and degree programs.
How CSU Global’s Academic Calendar Works
- When does the next term start?
- CSU Global offers eight-week accelerated courses with start dates occurring every month. We have two academic tracks: Gold and Burgundy. Check out the Academic Calendar for start and finish dates.
- Can I take a term off from taking courses?
- Of course! Students have the option to take off a term and adjust their schedule. Be sure to speak with both your Student Success Counselor and Financial Services Advisor to verify that there will not be any academic or financial consequences from taking a break.
Taking Courses at CSU Global
- What course should I take next?
- This depends on your program and the level of progress you have made. Major and specialization courses have a recommended order of completion that you should follow. Your Success Counselor is a great resource to help you plan and map out your schedule.
- What should I do if I am falling behind in class?
- Life happens and things come up that can get in the way of completing your coursework. CSU Global’s Late Policy provides you with flexibility around the submission of your assignments when you need it. It is a good idea to connect with your instructor should you have any questions about assignment expectations or deadlines. They are here to help you navigate the course successfully.
- What happens if I drop/withdraw from my course?
- Students can drop a course during the first week of the term. After the first full week, students can then withdraw from a course until week six. Before withdrawing, talk with your Student Success Counselor to go over options and resources to help you stay on track with your degree. Students should always consult with financial aid (if using loans/grants) or their employer (if using benefits) before withdrawing in case there are financial factors to consider.
When Graduation is on the Horizon
- How can I graduate sooner?
- Students can work on their degree at a part- or full-time pace, and there are a few ways to speed the process along. Undergraduate students are permitted to transfer up to 90 credits, including 64 from a two-year institution and/or 60 alternative credits. Learn more about available alternative credit options.
- There are the options of utilizing the overlapping term or requesting a credit overload to complete courses quicker.
- When will I graduate and receive my diploma?
- Students are eligible for degree conferral once they complete all required courses for their program. Students can login to the Student Portal and select Degree Progress Details to see how many credits remain. Once all required credits have been completed and final grades have been posted, your account will be reviewed by the Registrar’s office within 30 days. When your degree is officially conferred, you will be an official graduate of CSU Global. Congratulations! Your diploma will then be shipped to the address we have on file.
