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Annual Impact Report 2025 CSUF University Extension


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Welcome

Welcome to the CSUF University Extension Annual Impact Report that covers the timeframe of July 2024–June 2025.

Cal State Fullerton mascot Tuffy the elephant, wearing an orange Titans shirt, raising its arm in front of the campus building

 

We extend sincere appreciation to our campus, corporate, international, and public agency partners. Your continued support and collaboration are vital to our shared success. To our dedicated staff, thank you for your creativity, enthusiasm, hard work, and dedication to serving our students and each other. Together, we continue to build learning pathways for all.

As we reflect on the past year, let us celebrate our achievements and look forward to the opportunities ahead. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our mission.

Together, let's celebrate a year of achievements and milestones that have moved Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) University Extension and our institution forward. Our collective efforts, including our numerous programs and courses, reflect the vibrant and hard-working Titan community, regional organizations, and international students and partners we continue to serve and develop into future leaders.

Forward Orange

Blonde female teacher with glasses dressed in black, talking to a diverse group of three Cal State Fullerton female students who are taking notes

Degree and Post-Baccalaureate Programs

Cal State Fullerton University Extension is proud to offer a diverse array of degree and academic programs designed to empower students and professionals to advance their careers. From fully online bachelor's degree-completion programs to flexible master's degrees and a transformative pre-health professions postbaccalaureate program, our offerings cater to a wide range of educational, personal, and professional needs. Additionally, many regional employers support professional development through organizational benefits such as tuition reimbursement, making our programs accessible to a broader audience.

Online Undergraduate Degree-Completion Programs

CSUF University Extension's commitment to accessible education is exemplified through our three fully online bachelor's degree-completion programs, allowing students to complete their undergraduate degrees part-time in just three years. Explore more about these programs here.

Brown haired female in a white and black long sleeve shirt, sitting at a desk on a glowing laptop
Online B.A. in Business Administration

This program, with 333 students last year, is led by our esteemed College of Business and Economics faculty who also teach on-campus business courses. Discover more about our Business Administration faculty.

Female wearing a black Cal State Fullerton shirt, smiling as she sits at her laptop
Online B.A. in Humanities and Social Sciences

With 95 students, this program enhances students' communicative, collaborative, and analytical skills. Learn about the opportunities it provides through the experiences of two students who found opportunity and an interview with faculty member Gwendolyn Alexis.

A female in a gray Cal State Fullerton sweater sitting in a red lawn chair, typing on a laptop
Online B.A. in Sociology

Enrolling 120 students last academic year, this program delves into societal relationships and offers upper-division classes for those who plan to pursue graduate studies. (CSUF University Extension offers a Master of Social Work Flex program or for working professionals. See below for details.)

These CSUF undergraduate programs have four common features:

  • computer Fully online classes.
  • school Cohort-based learning ensures enrolled students progress through each course together and always get the classes they need.
  • commute No need to commute to campus and look for a parking space at all.
  • cast_for_education Classes are taught by the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus at Cal State Fullerton.

These programs share key benefits: flexible scheduling, a structured cohort system, no commuting, and instruction by the same distinguished faculty as our on-campus programs. Learn more about each program's unique offerings and how they fit into your busy life.

106Total CSUF University Extension online-degree completion graduates this past year

Graduate Degrees

Cal State Fullerton continues to empower professionals through flexible master's degree programs, allowing them to advance their careers without sacrificing their current professional positions or commit full time to an accelerated program. Through strategic partnerships between CSUF University Extension and academic colleges, these cohort-based pathways provide exceptional professional and leadership development and networking opportunities. These programs exemplify CSUF's dedication to providing high-quality, flexible education that meets the needs of professionals while maintaining academic excellence. Explore our master’s degree programs.

Female types over the shoulder of a male sitting at a computer while code covers the screen
Accelerated M.S. in Software Engineering (AMSE)

With 51 students enrolled last year, this program is taught by the same experienced faculty and industry leaders that teach on campus. Discover the journey of a female STEM student who flourished in the AMSE program at CSUF.

Female in a gray blazer and purple blouse smiles in front of the campus building
Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA)

Designed for full-time working professionals, this program enrolled 41 students. It offers a part-time format and creates an instant Orange County regional network. Students learn from faculty who are top-ranked researchers and industry experts from the CSUF College of Business and Economics, giving students a leadership edge.

Two females sit at a desk talking, one of them has her hands crossed with a pen and pad under her hands.
Master of Social Work Flex (MSW)

With 87 students enrolled this last academic year, this program prepares leaders in public social service organizations. Read an interview with Erika Ochoa, MSW student.

These CSUF graduate programs have three common features:

  • Accelerated programs can be completed in 1.5 years, while part-time programs take 3 years.
  • Cohort-based learning ensures enrolled students progress through each course together and students always get the classes they need.
  • All graduate program classes are taught by the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus at Cal State Fullerton.

90Total CSUF University Extension master’s degree graduates this past year.

Still unsure? Here is a guide to CSUF University Extension master’s programs.

Pre-Health Professions Postbaccalaureate Program

The CSUF University Extension Pre-Health Professions Postbaccalaureate Program helps students with non-science degrees prepare for professional schools and transition into health care careers. With 50 students enrolled this past year, the on-campus program provides a robust foundation for those seeking to pivot into the health care and medical industries. Our program is taught by the same experienced faculty from the CSUF College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, ensuring consistency and quality in education.

Female doctor checks the head area of a female Cal State Fullerton student as she sits on an examination table.

Discover the inspiring medical journey of program graduate, Alexander Argame.

19Total CSUF University Extension pre-health professions postbaccalaureate program graduates this past year.

Educator Courses and Programs

Cal State Fullerton is dedicated to supporting K-12 educators throughout their careers with University Extension’s Educator Courses and Programs. Developed in collaboration with the CSUF College of Education, these fully online programs help California K-12 educators complete their credentials, meet prerequisites, enhance teaching skills, and pursue ongoing educational opportunities.

Two females talk and laugh in front of a campus building labelled Education Classroom Building

Educator Programs

178students enrolled

Teacher Induction Program: With 178 students enrolled this past academic year, this program enables educators to clear their teaching credentials online. Explore Amber Tejeda’s CSUF Teacher Induction Program journey. Our Teacher Induction Program is designed to meet current California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) requirements for earning a Clear Multiple Subject, Single Subject, or Educational Specialist Credential.

120students enrolled

Single Subject Credential Prerequisites: Enrolling 120 students this past academic year, these online courses prepare educators to enter a teaching credential program by completing necessary prerequisites.

Educator Courses

Strategies to Build Anti-Racist and Cooperative Linguistic Ideologies in TK-12 Classrooms (taught in Spanish): Introduced in Spring 2025 and developed by Dr. Fernando Rogriguez-Valls, this new course enrolled 50 students and was a resounding success. Plans are underway to offer additional courses in Spring 2026, potentially including Korean, Vietnamese, and Spanish. Discover more about Dr. Fernando Rodriguez-Valls.

African American female teacher smiles as a group of diverse preteen students raise their hands to answer a question

Professional Development Education Partners

Professional Development Education Partners: Through collaboration with the CSUF College of Education and partners, we offer professional development courses and units to educators. Our active partners this past academic year included:

We are committed to helping California educators continue their journey of lifelong learning and professional development.

Three diverse Cal State Fullerton students, one male, stand against a background of a blue glass building and two pink trees.

University Courses

University Extension offers admitted CSUF students and other learners access to Cal State Fullerton courses, providing additional, flexible pathways to academic achievement and professional development.

CSUF Open University

Through Open University, non-admitted students and other learners can enroll in regular university courses on a space-available basis. This program offers access to academic credit courses, promoting educational advancement.

  • 1,396admitted and non-admitted students participated.
  • 2,736 Cal State Fullerton Open University online, self-serve enrollments for academic credit.
  • 1,406 booked phone, online, or in-person advising appointments.
  • 5 webinars.
  • 188Open University webinar attendees.

Open University (OU) advisors Michelle Hernandez and Suzanne Batista contributed to student success through a variety of collaborations in support of student persistence toward graduation.


CSUF Summer Session

Summer Session at Cal State Fullerton offers opportunities to currently admitted CSUF students. Non-admitted students, admitted incoming fall transfer students, and the public can take Summer Session through Open University to earn credits, increase their GPA, engage with faculty, and accelerate time to graduation. Classes are available online, hybrid, or on-campus, spanning 5–10 weeks.

  • 769 Classes offered during Summer Session across various academic subjects.
  • 68Lower division G.E. classes offered.
  • 171Nmber of upper division General Education classes offered.
71%

Percent Hispanic/Latino and Asian

85%

Percent seniors and juniors

5.15 Average number of units taken

7,665 Total number of students 

What do Cal State Fullerton students say about Summer Session?


Summer Study Abroad Programs

If studying abroad for 12–16 weeks in a fall or spring semester sounds a bit daunting, a faculty-led summer study abroad program may be just right at 2–4 weeks. Studying abroad offers benefits such as enhancing language skills, appreciating diverse cultures, gaining global perspectives, developing independence, and strengthening workplace adaptability.

Diverse group of adults, predominantly female, stand infront a historic castle site, smiling
  • 14 Faculty-led summer study abroad programs.
  • 412 Total number of students who participated in this year's summer study abroad programs.
  • 23 Total number of credit-bearing courses offered in summer. 
  • 9 Countries visited.
  • map of AustraliaAustralia
  • map of CanadaCanada
  • map of DenmarkDenmark
  • map of GhanaGhana
  • map of GreeceGreece
  • map of IndonesiaIndonesia
  • map of JapanJapan
  • map of SpainSpain
  • map of TaiwanTaiwan

Six Cal State Fullerton students, three males and three females, stand shoulder to shoulder in graduation gowns

CSUF Winter Session

CSUF Winter Session provides an accelerated 2–4 week class schedule for students to complete a course between the fall and spring semesters, with most classes offered fully online.

62%

Number of classes offered online

71%

Percent Hispanic/Latino and Asian

83%

Percent seniors and juniors

  • 149 Total number of classes offered during this winter session.
  • 60 General Education classes offered.
  • 2,379Total number of students enrolled in winter session university academic courses.
  • 3.09 Average units taken.

Winter Study Abroad Programs

At just 1–3 weeks, short-term faculty-led winter study abroad programs offer transformative experiences, fostering language proficiency, cultural appreciation, and workplace adaptability, beyond personal growth and development.

Asian female in beanie and winter coat and scarf, smiles and raises her right arm against a background of a snowy mountain
  • 3 Faculty-led winter study abroad programs
  • 44 Students actively participated in short-term winter study abroad programs
  • 4 Different countries visited during the study abroad programs
  • map of New ZealandNew Zealand
  • map of PanamaPanama
  • map of PhilippinesPhilippines
  • map of ThailandThailand

Professional Development

Cal State Fullerton University Extension’s professional development programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Whether you're completing a short-term certificate program, preparing for a career change, upskilling for a promotion, creating custom training for staff and future leaders, our programs offer targeted and efficient learning opportunities that deliver results in shorter time spans than traditional degree programs.

Two males sit at a dinner table, one is a child doing homework, the other is an adult in a Cal State Fullerton ringer shirt
 
 
 
 

Certificate Programs

Cal State Fullerton University Extension’s Certificate Programs provide valuable learning opportunities for individuals to enhance their careers and skills efficiently, often within short time frames to make immediate positive workplace impact. These programs attract students and professionals alike due to their flexible schedules, small class sizes, and instruction from subject matter experts with years of experience in the field.

Below is a list of CSUF University Extension active short-term certificate programs. Our unit welcomed new instructors in Fiduciary Management for Trustees, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Human Resources (HR) certificate programs.

Impacting the regional Orange County, California area, CSUF University Extension continues to support career growth and skill development through short-term certificate programs. Our commitment to accessibility and excellence ensures that more individuals can benefit from professional development opportunities.

Community and Corporate Training

Cal State Fullerton University Extension continues to address workforce and talent development needs by partnering with corporate organizations and regional municipalities. Through customized training programs led by respected, actively practicing industry professionals, we offer valuable learning experiences that benefit employers, emerging leaders, and employees alike.

Director, Winnie Kang-Abreu, proudly states, "It's especially fulfilling to hear students immediately apply their new skills and expand their professional networks within their industries and region."

Learn how CSUF University Extension community and corporate training programs bolster workforce development.

Two males shares notes. A diverse group of two females and a male talk while looking at a tablet, a laptop and notebooks.

One of University Extension’s flagship contract training certificate programs, Leadership Development for Public Agencies, promotes effective learning transfer, which empowers students to apply learning material directly to their professional and personal lives. Since its inception in 2007, the program has built strong partnerships with 38 regional public agencies and celebrated the graduation of over 700 public servant leaders.

This past December 2024 and June 2025, CSUF University Extension proudly hosted recognition ceremonies honoring 70 outstanding graduates and their supportive agencies and leaders.

Titan Alumni Reflects on the Empowering Program

Daniel Livingston, Principal Compensation Analyst at Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), is a proud Titan alumni and father of two impressive Titans - Taylor recently graduated and Madison is in her third year at CSUF.

Daniel reflected on the program, “Being able to experience Cal State Fullerton's (CSUF) Leadership Development for Public Agencies certificate program provided a format to share and hear experiences from other potential leaders from other agencies that I would not be exposed to. It was empowering.” He added, “I would recommend taking Cal State Fullerton's Leadership Development for Public Agencies certificate program. I believe it is always good to become active in learning. Especially when it is in a learning environment where professionals can share and hear experiences ultimately seeking growth in leadership.”

* New partner this year.


Reduced Program Fee Partnership

We are excited to announce two new partnerships with the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) to support their employees' professional development. Through this collaboration, employees are eligible for tuition discounts on select non-credit courses and certificate programs. This past year, CSUF University Extension presented at Los Angeles World Airports' Association of Airport Employees Monthly Meeting for the Board and Employee Division representatives and exhibited at the Spring 2025 LAWA Career & Education Fair to promote all of its programs.

We are happy to partner with the following organizations. For those who wish to collaborate with CSUF University Extension, you are encouraged to complete an interest form on our Corporate and Community Training page.

CSUF University Extension is eager to continue these meaningful collaborations and create opportunities that develop future public sector, community, or corporate leaders.

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International Extension

University Semester Abroad (USA), a program of CSUF University Extension, offers international students the opportunity to immerse themselves in academic life in Southern California for one or two semesters at Cal State Fullerton. Students learn from distinguished CSUF faculty and collaborate with fellow Titans in the classroom, through co-curricular activities such as academic clubs that reinforce learning, and extracurricular activities that explore interests and enhance personal growth.

In addition to our University Semester Abroad program, CSUF University Extension is thrilled to re-introduce our international training programs. Designed as two-week summer sessions, these programs offer unique opportunities for both international educators and international university students alike. Embarking on these program journeys include cultural and academic discovery and development.

University Semester Abroad

University Semester Abroad exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering global connections and providing enriching educational experiences for international students.

Program Benefits:

  • Skill Development: Students acquire valuable skills that prepare them for degree completion, career initiation, research endeavors, or graduate studies. The program emphasizes practical, applicable, and interpersonal skills that extend beyond the classroom.
  • Cultural Exploration: Beyond academics, students explore vibrant Orange County and beyond, attend inclusive campus events, and engage with American culture, connecting with a diverse, global student community.

Jiaqi Zhang, a USA program student who attended Cal State Fullerton in Spring and Fall 2024 from Shandong University, China, was an outstanding participant, maintaining a 3.96 GPA during his time in the program. Reflecting on the program, he shared, “I strongly recommend this University Semester Abroad Program! My advice would be: First, plan your course selection in advance to make sure it matches your academic goals. Second, actively participate in class discussions and extracurricular activities to maximize learning outcomes. Finally, don't miss opportunities to interact with professors and classmates - these interpersonal exchanges often bring unexpected inspiration. Remember, the value of this experience lies not only in classroom learning but in the entire cultural immersion process.”

Program Reach:

  • 190 To date, the CSUF International Extension program has welcomed 190 students from around the world, including countries such as:

World map, Mexico, Brazil, Russia, Germany, France, Turkey, Iran, Djibouti, Myanmar, India, China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore are all highlighted.

World map, Russia, Germany, France, Turkey, Iran, Djibouti, Myanmar, India, China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore are all highlighted. Mobile versionWorld map, Mexico, Brazil. Mobile version

  • Brazil
  • China
  • Djibouti
  • France
  • Germany
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran
  • Japan
  • Malaysia
  • Myanmar
  • Mexico
  • Russia
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan
  • Turkey
  • Vietnam

Campus Activities

Students experience a variety of campus activities, enhancing their cultural integration and social engagement:

International Training Programs

CSUF University Extension offers custom training programs for international students, educators and business professionals in public and private sectors. These programs are designed to meet the specific needs of each group, helping participants grow academically, professionally, and personally. In addition to ongoing collaboration with current international partners, we strive to build new relationships with international schools, organizations, and companies. Through these efforts, we aim to expand global collaboration and create meaningful learning experiences for all involved. Custom programs are typically one week to one month in length and include instruction and other activities at Cal State Fullerton in Orange County, California.

Program Benefits:

  • lightbulb_circle Expert Guidance: Gain insights from industry experts and esteemed faculty, enhancing knowledge and skills in your field.
  • approval_delegation Hands-On Experience: Engage actively in group projects and interactive site visits, providing practical experience and real-world applications.
  • school Campus Life: Immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse CSUF campus environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
  • diversity_2 Cultural Exposure: Experience the rich cultural diversity of Southern California, enjoying its beautiful weather and stunning beaches.
  • location_away Accommodation: Benefit from safe and convenient on-campus housing, ensuring comfort and ease throughout your stay.

For program inquiries, send an email to usa@fullerton.edu.

Looking to Our Future

As I reflect on the past academic year, I am proud to share the remarkable progress CSUF University Extension made in advancing our mission and contributing to the success of our students, faculty and instructors, campus community, and regional and global partners. The collective achievements are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and our partners, and they set a strong foundation for future growth and innovation.

Diverse group of four Cal State Fullerton students, one male, all cheer with Fullerton themed merchandise
  • Professional Development Programs: Crime and Intelligence Analysis, Human Resources Management, Professional Fiduciary Management, and Public Leadership for Public Agencies.
  • Educator Programs and Courses: Educator CEU courses, professional development, and single-subject credential prerequisites
  • Degree and Post-Baccalaureate Programs: M.S. in Counseling, MSW, and Pre-Health Professions Postbaccalaureate Program
  • International Extension: University Semester Abroad program

New Team Members

First, I extend a warm welcome to our newest team members. Your unique educational and professional experiences, fresh perspectives, and innovative ideas are invaluable assets to our organization, and we are thrilled you joined us on this journey.

  • Carolina Fernandez Profile PhotoCarolina Fernandez
  • Natalie Hendrick Profile PhotoNatalie Hendrick
  • Lexie Relph Profile PhotoLexie Relph
  • Linet Sanabria Valdivia Profile PhotoLinet Sanabria Valdivia

Congratulating Dedicated Contributors

We take great pride in recognizing those who have devoted years of loyal service to our institution and our mission. Their unwavering commitment and passion have been instrumental in shaping our success. Special congratulations to:

  • Dennis Cho Profile PhotoDennis Cho for 10 years
  • Jessica Solis-Bado Profile PhotoJessica Solis-Bado for 10 years
  • Winnie Kang-Abreu Profile PhotoWinnie Kang-Abreu for 15 years
  • Carolina Rosells Profile PhotoCarolina Rosells for 6 years*
  • Dianna Malinao Profile PhotoDianna Malinao for 20 years
  • Veronica Martinez Profile PhotoVeronica Martinez for 20 years
  • Mariana Ferrari Profile PhotoMariana Ferrari for 25 years
  • Denelle Pankratz Profile PhotoDenelle Pankratz for 25 years**

*12 years total at CSUF
**28 years total at CSUF

Celebrating Educational Achievements

Education and lifelong learning are the core of our mission, and we are proud to celebrate the academic accomplishments of four staff this year. Congratulations to:

  • Shreyas Gaikwad Profile PhotoShreyas Gaikwad, M.S. in Information Technology
  • Jennifer Ip Profile PhotoJennifer Ip, M.B.A
  • Elizabeth Perez Profile PhotoElizabeth Perez, M.B.A
  • Linet Sanabria Valdivia Profile PhotoLinet Sanabria Valdivia, M.S. in Instructional Design and Technology

Our commitment to operational excellence is evident by celebrating five staff members completing the CSU Student Success Analytics Certificate Program this past academic year as they embrace data to promote meaningful change and improve student success at CSUF.

  • Jennifer Custodio Profile PhotoJennifer Custodio
  • Danielle Flores Profile PhotoDanielle Flores
  • Jessica Solis-Bado Profile PhotoJessica Solis-Bado
  • Debbie Vengco Profile PhotoDebbie Vengco
  • Angela Zuniga Profile PhotoAngela Zuniga

We celebrated staff completing the Inclusion Champion Certificate Program in pursuit of increased cultural competency and awareness and to make a positive impact in their CSUF University Extension roles and beyond.

  • Carolina Fernandez Profile PhotoCarolina Fernandez
  • Leticia Lara Profile PhotoLeticia Lara
  • Debbie Vengco Profile PhotoDebbie Vengco

Congratulations to these team members who completed additional professional development opportunities; were recognized for supporting student, staff, or faculty success; and other achievements.

  • Suzanne Bautista Profile PhotoSuzanne Bautista: Recognition for changing the course of a student’s college career.
  • Jennifer Custodio Profile PhotoJennifer Custodio: Completion of State Authorization Network Fundamentals Course that enhances understanding of out-of-state compliance/state authorization rules.
  • Addison Jones Profile PhotoAddison Jones: Top four CSUF employees for completing CSUF Office of Financial Services Training and becoming a Concur, travel, purchasing, and other financial services expert.
  • Mandy Loo Profile PhotoCorey Decker Profile PhotoLeticia Lara Profile Photo
    Mandy Loo, Corey Decker, and Leticia Lara: First, second, and fifth place winners, respectively, of CSUF Staff Development Center Ignite game that motivates staff to engage in personal and professional development activities.
  • Courtney Marsac Profile PhotoCourtney Marsac: Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence (HRIE) University Awards Committee Nominee by faculty member, Loretta Donovan, for being an “inspiring superhero” exemplifying outstanding Teacher Induction Program collaboration between University Extension and the College of Education and dedication to the university.
  • Chloe Medina Profile PhotoChloe Medina: Project upGRADS Certificate Program to support graduate student success.

These team members embody the spirit of lifelong learning that we champion in CSUF University Extension.

 

Thank You

As we embark on the year ahead, we remain dedicated to advancing our mission and exploring new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and creativity. Together, we will continue to empower our students, staff, faculty and instructors; engage our campus, regional, and global community; and innovate for success. I’m excited for the coming year and invite you to reach out to me and my team at CSUF University Extension so we can foster growth and inspire success for our communities together.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Onward,
Karen McKinley
Executive Director
CSUF University Extension

Karen Profile Photo