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Annual Impact Report 2025 CSUF University Extension

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Opening

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

I would like to 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.

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.

  • Staff Profile PhotoCarolina Fernandez
  • Staff Profile PhotoNatalie Hendrick
  • Staff Profile PhotoLexie Relph
  • Staff 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:

  • Staff Profile PhotoDennis Cho for 10 years
  • Staff Profile PhotoJessica Solis-Bado for 10 years
  • Winnie Kang-Abreu for 15 years
  • Staff Profile PhotoCarolina Rosells for 6 years*
  • Dianna Malinao for 20 years
  • Staff Profile PhotoVeronica Martinez for 20 years
  • Staff Profile PhotoMariana Ferrari for 25 years
  • Staff Profile PhotoDenelle Pankratz for 25 years

*12 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:

  • Staff Profile PhotoShreyas Gaikwad, M.S. in Information Technology
  • Staff Profile PhotoJennifer Ip, M.B.A.
  • Staff Profile PhotoElizabeth Perez, M.B.A.
  • Staff 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.

  • Staff Profile PhotoJennifer Custodio
  • Staff Profile PhotoDanielle Flores
  • Staff Profile PhotoJessica Solis-Bado
  • Debbie Vengco
  • Staff Profile PhotoAngela Zuniga

Three people completed 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.

  • Staff Profile PhotoCarolina Fernandez
  • Staff Profile PhotoLeticia Lara
  • Staff 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.

  • Staff Profile PhotoSuzanne Bautista: Recognition for changing the course of a student’s college career.
  • Staff Profile PhotoJennifer Custodio: Completion of State Authorization Network Fundamentals Course that enhances understanding of out-of-state compliance/state authorization rules.
  • Staff 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.
  • Staff Profile PhotoStaff Profile PhotoStaff 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.
  • Staff 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.
  • Staff 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.

Business Development and Outreach

Our outreach and business development efforts reached new heights this year. We shared University Extension programs at on- and off-campus events, engaged with countless prospective students, families, and working professionals, and established new partnerships that enhance our regional impact. Our team’s progress in pertinent Fullerton Forward initiatives exemplifies our commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. Learn more about Fullerton Forward.

Thank You

Finally, I 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 fiscal year, let us celebrate our achievements and look forward to the opportunities ahead. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our mission.

Sincerely,
Karen McKinley
Executive Director
CSUF University Extension

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 post-baccalaureate pre-health 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.

Online B.A. in Business Administration

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

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.

Online B.A. in Sociology

Enrolling 120 students last academic year, this program delves into interpersonal 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 for working professionals. See below for details.)

These CSUF undergraduate programs have four common features:

  • computer Fully online classes fit into your busy schedule.
  • school Cohort-based learning ensures students progress through each course together and always get the class they need.
  • commute No need to commute to campus and look for a parking space.
  • cast_for_education Classes are taught by the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus at CSUF.

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.

Accelerated M.S. in Applied Computer Science (AMACS)

In its inaugural year, the program enrolled 12 students. Meet the esteemed AMACS faculty from the CSUF College of Engineering and Computer Science.

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.

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.

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.

M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Marriage and Family Therapy

This program, accredited by CACREP and qualifying for LMFT and LPCC licensure, enrolled 50 students. Discover how the Graduate Counseling Program Prepares Students to Lead in Mental Health Care Workforce.

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 students progress through each course together and students always get the classes they need.
  • Classes are taught by the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus at CSUF.

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 Program

The CSUF University Extension Pre-Health Program is designed to empower students whose undergraduate degree was non-sciences to prepare for professional schools in order to transition into professional 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.

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

19Total CSUF University Extension postbaccalaureate pre-health 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.

Educator Programs

178Teacher 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.

120Single 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 Fernando Rodriguez-Valls.

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.

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.

  • 1,396 students
  • 2,736 enrollments
  • 1,406 booked appointments
  • 5 webinars
  • 188 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 including incoming fall transfer students, and the public 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.

Colleges offering the most classes:
  • College of Business and Economics
  • College of Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Colleges of Health and Human Development
  • 769 Number of classes offered
  • 68 Total number of lower division General Education classes offered
  • 171 Total number of upper division General Education classes offered
85%

Percent seniors and juniors

71%

Percent Hispanic/Latino and Asian

7,665 Total number of students (6% increase YOY)

5.15 Average number of units taken

What do Cal State Fullerton students say about Summer Session?

  1. format_quote I had a great summer session - I took two classes and did well! I’d definitely recommend it to other students!
  2. format_quote Because the classes are usually small in size, I was able to sit down with my professors one on one to go over the material.
  3. format_quote Many classes are offered online, so for someone who lives three hours away, such as myself, this is a great opportunity.
  4. format_quote The summer break is long, so why not spend some amount of time on studying in order to graduate sooner.
  5. format_quote It’s an opportunity to get classes finished quickly. Also allows for a lighter class load during the regular semester.
 

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 1.5–4 weeks. Studying abroad offers benefits such as enhancing language skills, appreciating diverse cultures, gaining global perspectives, developing independence, and strengthening workplace adaptability.

  • 14 Number of summer study abroad faculty-led programs
  • 412 Number of students
  • 23 Number of courses
  • 9 Countries visited
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Denmark
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Spain
  • Taiwan

CSUF Winter Session

CSUF Winter Session provides an accelerated 3–4 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

83%

Percent seniors and juniors

71%

Percent Hispanic/Latino and Asian

  • 149 Number of classes offered
  • 60 Total number of General Education classes offered
  • 2,379 Total number of students
  • 3.09 Average number of 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.

  • 3 Number of summer study abroad faculty-led programs
  • 44 Number of students
  • 4 Countries visited
  • New Zealand
  • Panama
  • Philippines
  • Thailand

Professional Development

Cal State Fullerton’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.

 
 
 
 

Certificate Programs

Cal State Fullerton’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:

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.

Assistant 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.

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.

* New partner this year.

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 (CSUF) 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.”

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 continue 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.

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 (USA) 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 (USA) 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:

  • 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.

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.

Student Success

We have made significant strides in expanding access to our programs, launching the Accelerated M.S. in Applied Computer Science (AMACS) and beginning recruitment for a second cohort in the Pre-Health Program (PHP) effective Spring 2026. This past year, we also saw a 6% increase in Summer Session student enrollment, demonstrating our commitment to fostering academic access and success.

Year over year, we are proud to experience enrollment growth in:

  • 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 Program
  • International Extension: University Semester Abroad program

Student Engagement

Our efforts to expand international engagement have enriched student engagement through extracurricular activities, broadening their global perspective and American experiences. Additionally, our inaugural TitansGive fundraising campaign raised over $1000 (primarily donated by UE staff) for student scholarships, enhancing our support for student success.

$1000

Instructor and Staff Success

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Two staff members and two student assistants completed CSUF master's degree programs, and many have started or completed the Inclusive Champion Certificate Program offered by CSUF Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence. Three of our team members led CSUF wellness activities, such as crocheting, in collaboration with HRIE and three team members achieved outstanding results in the Ignite professional development points for the entire academic year.

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Our unit welcomed three new instructors in Fiduciary Management for Trustees, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Human Resources (HR) certificate programs.

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Four new staff members joined us this past academic year as we continue to provide excellent student experiences in Student Services, Academic Operations, and Instructional Design.

Strengthen Community Relations

We onboarded two new corporate partners and created custom webpages for their associates to receive discounts on some CSUF University Extension courses and programs. In addition, we expanded our leadership development partners for public agencies by four, strengthening our regional partnerships. Our participation in 43 on- and off-campus outreach events has further solidified our presence and impact within California, including visits to California Community Colleges, community health and education fairs, and participation in collaborative campus events curated by CSUF Outreach, Recruitment, and Orientation, CSUF Academic Affairs, and others welcoming future Titans and their families.

 

Improve Operational Efficiency

Cross-functional collaboration is ongoing as program leads have collaborated with IT to analyze student enrollments and retention and with MarCom to enhance outreach efforts, ensuring that we continue to optimize our processes and outcomes. Process mapping work continued to expand organizational understanding of our work and document effort required to successfully develop and administer self-supporting programs.

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