Frequently Asked Questions

Applications can be submitted through Cal State Apply.

The CS Online program admits students three times per year in every Spring, Summer, and Fall.

• Fall applications will close mid-November
• Spring applications will close mid-July
• Summer applications will close mid-September. 

For the most up-to-date deadlines, please review our How to Apply Step-by-Step.

• Fall Applications: Admissions decisions will be sent by mid-April. 
• Spring Applications: Admissions decisions will be sent by early November. 
• Summer Applications: Admissions decisions will be sent by early February.

A statement of purpose is required for all applications. Letters of recommendation are not required.

This is possible, however, please keep in mind that priority is given to applicants who have completed all of the admissions requirements prior to submitting their application.

Yes, the CS fully online program accepts students who are seeking a second bachelor's degree so long as the first bachelor's degree is not in computer science. Second bachelor's degree students would be excluded from all general education requirements but would still need to complete all prerequisites for the major.

If you are applying as a second bachelor's degree student, when you are completing your profile in Cal State Apply, choose that you are seeking an undergraduate degree. From the options presented, please choose the “Seeking a second Bachelor's Degree” and continue with completing your profile.

Yes, you can apply for the CS Online program even if you hold a master’s degree, as long as your first bachelor’s degree is not in computer science. When you are completing your profile in Cal State Apply, choose that you are seeking an undergraduate degree. From the options presented, please choose the “Seeking a second Bachelor's Degree” option and continue with completing your profile.

It is not possible to switch your application from the on-campus program to the online program. Please contact csonline@csumb.edu with steps on how to apply to CS Online.

• Official Electronic transcripts are preferred and result in shorter processing time. 
• Physical transcripts are acceptable, but please keep in mind that they can take up to 4-6 weeks for the transcript to be sent, mailed, delivered and processed.
• International transcripts must have a course-by-course evaluation and, if applicable, an English translation. Course-by-course evaluations can be requested by visiting one of the approved NACES members.

You can have physical transcripts mailed to:
Office of Admissions – Cal State Monterey Bay
ATTN: Computer Science Online
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001

Note: Transcripts must be official and sent directly from the originating institution to CSUMB's Office of Admissions. Transcripts in sealed envelopes from the student are acceptable.

Yes, you will likely need to resubmit your transcripts. However, contact the CS Online academic advisor at csonline@csumb.edu to confirm the specifics of your application.

To transfer foreign coursework to CSUMB, you must provide a course-by-course evaluation of your international transcripts, along with official copies of the transcripts. If the transcripts are not in English, they must also include a translation. If you need an evaluation of foreign coursework, visit the NACES website.

Prerequisites and general education courses can be completed at any community college. Check course equivalencies and acceptance at assist.org.

Not having all general education courses or graduation requirements upon starting the program may delay graduation. However, these courses can be completed at a local community college while simultaneously enrolled at CSUMB.

Being part of a cohort-based program means you begin the CS Online program with a group of students at the same time and move through the curriculum together in a structured sequence.

Instead of enrolling in courses independently each term, your cohort follows a pre-set course plan, taking the same classes in the same order. This model provides consistency, built-in support, and a strong sense of community throughout the program.

Most courses are 4 units each. Students enroll in one course per 8 week term, except for three terms when students take two courses, totaling 4-6 units.

Each course will span over 8 weeks.

The program is divided into 8 week terms. There are six 8 week terms each year: Fall A & B, Spring A & B, Summer A & B.

You will be considered a part-time student, as you will be enrolling in fewer than 12 units per semester, taking one course at a time.

CS Online courses are fully online and designed to be collaborative, highly interactive, and supported by both faculty and teaching assistants. All courses are delivered through the Canvas Learning Management System.

Yes. Each course begins with a required, synchronous orientation via Zoom held on the Saturday before classes officially begin. During the orientations, faculty, teaching assistants, and students will introduce themselves and review the course syllabus and materials. 

In addition to each course orientation, there will be a mandatory program orientation which will go over the overall program structure, program processes and procedures, and other beneficial information to be successful in the CS Online program. 

Some courses may have proctored exams, and there will be occasional mandatory 15-30 minute meetings with the professors or academic advisor throughout the two year program.

While each course may vary slightly, most weeks follow a consistent structure: 

• Wednesday: Weekly course materials are released
• Thursday - Monday:
  • Review pre-recorded lectures, readings, and other learning materials
  • Collaborate in teams of 3-5 students on hands-on projects
  • Engage in forum discussions
  • Complete weekly assignments and activities
• Tuesday: Assignments and Quizzes are typically due

Students should expect to spend 16-20 hours per week on coursework. 

Some courses may include synchronous activities, such as exams or presentations. When required, synchronous requirements are typically scheduled on Saturdays and are communicated well in advance.

Yes! Many of our current students work full-time while enrolled in CS Online. Students should expect to spend approximately 16-20 hours per week on coursework. While the program is rigorous, many current students and alumni find the structure manageable alongside work and other commitments. 

No on-campus meetings are required. However, students are welcome to visit campus and are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony upon completing the program.

There are occasional campus technology workshops, competitions, and guest lecturers, which are open to CS Online students.

No, you will receive the same diploma as students who complete the on-campus Computer Science program.

It is possible to get a student ID card mailed to you without needing to come to campus. This process will be discussed during the program orientation if admitted.

Students will have the opportunity to engage in weekly office hours with the faculty and teaching assistants to get assistance with course materials for the week. In addition to office hours, faculty and teaching assistants are available via discussion forums and email. Some faculty may utilize other communication tools like Google Hangouts, Slack, or Discord.

If you fail a course, you may continue in the program if the course is not a prerequisite for the next course. However, you will need to work with the academic advisor to retake the failed course to graduate.

Yes, a leave of absence can be taken for up to two academic years. This request must be discussed with the academic advisor prior to the term in which you wish to start your leave.

Kayla Rolicheck is the Academic Advisor and Coordinator for the Computer Science Online Degree Completion Program. She can be contacted with any questions at csonline@csumb.edu.

It may be possible to transfer in upper-division courses on a case-by-case basis. Please contact csonline@csumb.edu to discuss your specific situation.

If your community college does not have an articulation agreement listed on assist.org, please email csonline@csumb.edu with your questions for guidance.

The only concentration available for the fully online program is Software Engineering.

Currently the program does not allow students to add a minor.

It is not possible to take courses outside of the CS Online pathway.

Yes, some courses will require proctored exams. However, it will be of no cost to the student.

The cost for one semester unit in the CS online program is $550 per unit, applicable to all students regardless of California residency. Most courses in the program are four units.

Yes, there is a $39.00 student service fee every semester.
Note: Tuition and fees are subject to change.

You should complete your Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as you apply for the program.

For financial aid questions, please contact ee_financialaid@csumb.edu.