Graduate Studies   What is the nature of graduate education?   Who is a graduate student?   How do I apply for admission to graduate or post-baccalaureate studies?   What are the graduate admission requirements for international students?   What are the enrollment requirements for transitory (visiting) students?   What fees do I pay when I register as a graduate or post-baccalaureate student?   Can I use university research facilities after I have taken all my required units?   How is residence for tuition purposes determined?   What is Nonresident Tuition?   What are the requirements for a master's degree?   What is the University Writing Skills Requirement (UWSR)?   What is "Candidacy"?   What are the characteristics of graduate courses?   What are the different kinds of capstone experiences?   If I choose to write a University Thesis, what are the steps I must follow?   What are the policies that affect my registration, grades and academic status?   What determines my post-baccalaureate classification at Cal State Hayward?   May I receive credit for courses taken elsewhere?   How can I change my educational objective?   How can I pursue two master's degrees at the same time?   How can I pursue a second master's degree?   How do I apply for graduation?   Who can answer my questions?
1.	What is the nature of graduate education?   The master's degree is awarded for completion of a planned and integrated program of advanced study. It recognizes that a student has mastered a particular field sufficiently to pursue creative or applied projects in that field.   When you complete your graduate degree, you will have acquired a mastery of a particular area of knowledge; an ability to relate that knowledge to knowledge in other disciplines; an ability to deal systematically with the concepts, theory, and principles in new situations; an ability to formulate and deal with problems on an advanced level; methodological, technical, and communication skills essential for advanced study; an ability to undertake independent investigation and research; abilities characteristic of professional performance; and attitudes conducive to continuous intellectual and professional development.   Every master's degree program includes what is termed a capstone experience. This may include a thesis or its equivalent, a comprehensive examination, a specialized internship, a project, or case study report, a musical recital, gallery showing, or other comparable achievement. Your completion of the capstone experience demonstrates that you have successfully integrated the various elements of the graduate learning experience and have gained an in-depth knowledge of your discipline.
2.	Who is a graduate student?   You are considered a Graduate Student at Cal State Hayward if you have been admitted to a specific master's degree program as a "Conditionally Classified" or "Classified" student, or to an advanced credential program which can be earned in conjunction with a master's degree. Basic teacher credential programs constitute a separate area of post-baccalaureate work, and students in these programs are defined as "Classified Post-baccalaureate" students.   You will find information regarding master's degrees and credentials under the appropriate department's listing in the graduate section of this catalog.   Special orientation programs for new graduate students are offered each quarter by Student Life Programs. These programs are offered in the evening and cover master's degree requirements, campus resources, registration, and preliminary academic advisement. You will be sent orientation program information before your first quarter of enrollment.
3.	How do I apply for admission to graduate or post-baccalaureate studies?   Admission to the University All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants (e.g., joint Ph.D. and Ed.D applicants, master's degree applicants, those seeking a credential or a post-baccalaureate credential, and those interested in taking courses for personal or professional growth) must file a complete graduate application as described in the graduate and post-baccalaureate admission booklet. Applicants who completed undergraduate degree requirements and graduated the preceding term are also required to complete and submit an application and the $55 nonrefundable application fee (payable by check or money order at the time the application is submitted). (Note: Applicants seeking a second bachelor's degree should submit an undergraduate application for admission, rather than a graduate application.) Since applicants for post-baccalaureate programs may be limited to the choice of a single campus on each application, redirection to alternate campuses or later changes of campus choice will be minimal. To be assured of initial consideration by more than one campus, it will be necessary to submit separate applications (including fees) to each. Applications are available in the 1st floor Lobby of Warren Hall, the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office (WA 859), or from the Graduate Studies Office of any California State University campus. You can apply online using CSU Mentor at: http://www.csumentor.edu, or you can send an e-mail request for an application to the Cal State Hayward Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office at: gradprograms@csuhayward.edu. Beginning fall quarter 2005, only online CSU Mentor applications will be accepted.   Graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants may apply for a degree objective, a credential or certificate objective, or may have no program objective. Depending on the objective, Cal State Hayward will consider an application for admission as follows:   General Requirements There are four requirements for admission to graduate and post-baccalaureate studies at Cal State Hayward and only in unusual circumstances does the university make exceptions to these criteria. (These requirements are in accordance with California State University regulations as well as Title 5, chapter 1, subchapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations.)   1.  You must have completed a four-year college course of study and hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association, or have completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by appropriate campus authorities.   2.  You must be in good academic standing at the last college or university you attended.   3.  You must have earned a GPA of at least 2.5 (A=4.0) in the last 90 quarter (60 semester) units you attempted.   4.  You must satisfactorily meet the professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards for graduate study (including qualifying examinations) established by your department. You may also be required to submit letters of recommendation. Refer to the appropriate graduate department chapter in this catalog for information.   Application Filing Periods The application filing periods for graduate and unclassified post-baccalaureate applicants are the same as for undergraduate applicants. See the "When should I apply?" section in the Admissions/Undergraduate chapter of this catalog. You should also contact Enrollment Services at 510-885-CSUH or check the university website (enter "Application and Document Timelines" in the Search box) for up-to-date information on application filing periods and deadlines for the term of entry you are considering.   Admission to a Graduate Program. Many graduate degree programs at Cal State Hayward also require that you complete a separate departmental application. These programs may require that you meet additional admission requirements above and beyond those required for admission to the university. Contact the department offering the program to obtain a departmental application form and information on departmental application deadlines and admission requirements. Also see the chapter describing the graduate program in this catalog.   If you wish to pursue a graduate Special Major, contact the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies (WA 859, 510-885-3718) as soon as possible, preferably before you submit your admission application. You cannot be admitted as a Special Major until your program of study has been approved.   For information on changing major, degree, or credential objectives after you have been admitted, see the section "How can I change my educational objective?" near the end of this chapter.   Admission Categories If you meet the minimum requirements for graduate and post-baccalaureate studies, you will be considered for admission in one of the four following categories:   Unclassified Post-baccalaureate If you are admitted as an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate", you may take courses applicable to a graduate degree (even if you have not yet been admitted to the degree program) up to a maximum of 13 units, or you may enroll in courses for personal or professional growth.   As an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate," you are not assured of admission to any master's degree or credential program and no more than 13 quarter units earned in this status may be applied to a master's degree. In addition, because of heavy enrollment pressure, some departments may restrict registration in some courses for students in this category. For these reasons, if a master's degree is your goal, you should seek admission to your chosen program as soon as possible. Admission as an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" student does not constitute admission to, or assurance of consideration for admission to, any graduate degree or credential program.   Classified Post-baccalaureate When you are admitted to a credential or post-baccalaureate certificate program you are placed in the "Classified Post-baccalaureate" category. In addition to the general requirements outlined above, you are required to satisfy any additional criteria established by your department.   For information on admission to the credential programs in teacher education, administrative services, special education, and pupil personnel services, contact the College of Education and Allied Studies. For information on admission to certificate programs, contact the appropriate department.   Conditionally Classified Graduate If you are admitted conditionally to your master's degree program for one or more of the following reasons, you are placed in the "Conditionally Classified Graduate" category:   1.  You must complete specific courses (usually undergraduate).   2.  Your program of study and thesis/project committee must be determined and approved.   3.  You must pass certain qualifying examinations.   4.  Your GPA does not quite meet expected standards, and you must demonstrate your ability to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.   5.  You have not satisfied the University Writing Skills Requirement.   Departments have different policies regarding this status as well as differing lengths of time you may be allowed to remain conditionally classified. If you are admitted as a "Conditionally Classified Graduate" student, you should immediately check with your graduate advisor or department chair to determine what you must do to become fully classified.   Classified Graduate If you are admitted to a specific master's degree program, you are placed in the "Classified Graduate" category. To be admitted as a "Classified Graduate," you must satisfy the general university admission requirements, all additional criteria established by your department, and the University Writing Skills Requirement.
4.	What are the graduate admission requirements for international students?   The CSU must assess the academic preparation of international students. For this purpose, "international students" include those who hold U.S. visas as students, exchange visitors, and those in other non-immigrant classifications.   There are separate requirements and application filing dates for the admission of international students. Verification of your English proficiency (see below), financial resources, and academic performance are all important considerations in your admission.   Application Filing Periods and Deadlines for International Students The university has established deadlines to ensure that all application materials will be processed in time to allow you to make the necessary passport, visa, travel and other arrangements to reach the campus before the start of the quarter of admission. Contact Enrollment Services for current deadlines applicable to international student admission.   Each applicant must have a declared educational objective (major) when the application is filed. Applications received that do not indicate a major or that indicate a major that is not offered at this university, that is impacted, or that is closed, will be returned without action. International students on F-1 student visas may be admitted as "Conditionally Classified Graduate," "Classified Graduate," or "Classified Post-baccalaureate" students. They may not be admitted as "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" students, unless they have an approved course of study acceptable to the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies.   English Proficiency Requirement for Post-baccalaureate and Graduate Applicants All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose native language is not English and whose preparatory education was principally in a language other than English, must demonstrate competence in English. Proof of English proficiency can be met by submitting:   1.  An official TOEFL score report of 550 (213 on the Computer-Based TOEFL) or above (required of applicants who do not possess a bachelor's degree from a post-secondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction), OR   2.  An official transcript showing graduation with a bachelor's degree from a U.S. college or university, or an international college or university where English is the principal language of instruction, or an official letter from the college or university certifying that English was the language of instruction.   You must hold a degree obtained from a recognized university following completion of at least 16 years of scholastic work. You must also have the equivalent of a 2.50 grade point average, or higher, in your last two years of college-level courses.   Certification of International Students If you are on a student visa, you are required by the Immigration Service to take a minimum 8 quarter units per quarter that will count towards your degree as a "Graduate" student, a "Classified Post-baccalaureate" student, or an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" student with an approved course of study. For additional information, see "What determines my post-baccalaureate classification at Cal State Hayward" later in this chapter. Enrollment in courses through Open University in the Division of Continuing and International Education will not count for visa certification purposes.
5.	What are the enrollment requirements for transitory (visiting) students?   Graduate students are eligible for Intrasystem Concurrent Enrollment, Intrasystem Visitor Enrollment, and Cross-Registration with the University of California, Berkeley and selected other East Bay colleges.   Intrasystem Concurrent Enrollment If you are enrolled at any campus of the California State University, you may apply to attend another campus while concurrently enrolled at your home campus.   Eligibility Requirements: (1) You have completed at least one term at the home campus as a matriculated student, or will be enrolled concurrently in such status, (2) you are, or have been, enrolled in an authorized graduate program at your home campus, and (3) you are in good standing at the last college attended.   Intrasystem Visitor Enrollment If you are a student of any campus of The California State University, you may apply for admission as a visiting student at another campus for a period of one term.   Eligibility Requirements: (1) You have completed at least one term at the home campus as a matriculated student, (2) you are, or have been, enrolled in an authorized graduate program at the home campus, and (3) you are in good standing at the last college attended.   For additional information on Intrasystem Concurrent Enrollment and Intrasystem Visitor Enrollment, as well as information on the Cross-registration program with the University of California, Berkeley and selected other East Bay colleges, see "What Are the Enrollment Requirements for Transitory (Visiting) Students" in the Undergraduate Admission chapter.
6.	What fees do I pay when I register as a graduate or post-baccalaureate student?   The California State University is one of the most economical public universities in the nation and Cal State Hayward's fees are among the lowest in the California State University system. Resident students currently pay only 17% of the total cost of their education. All fees are subject to revision by the Board of Trustees without notice. If revisions occur, they will be published in the Class Schedule. Legal residents of California are not charged tuition, only fees.   Schedule of Graduate and Post-baccalaureate Registration Fees, 2004-2005 Any student who holds a bachelor's degree, which includes students pursuing a second bachelor's degree, and all categories of graduate and post-baccalaureate students pay the following fees when registering at Cal State Hayward. (Legal residents of California are not charged tuition.)   Graduate/Post-baccalaureate Registration Fees   0.1 to 6.0 Units   6.1 or More Units   State University Fee   *$436 *$752 Student Body Fee   15 15 Facilities Fee   2 2 University Union Fee   55 55 Instructionally Related Activities Fee   16 16 Health Services Fee   35 35 Photo I.D. (quarterly fee)   1 1 Total $560 $876   *Note: The State University Fee for the academic year (three quarters) is $1,308 for 0.1 to 6.0 units a quarter and $2,256 for 6.1 or more units a quarter.   For information on how to pay fees, as well as information on other fees (e.g., library fees, individual course fees, test fees, etc.), see the Fees and Expenses chapter in this catalog. The Fees and Expenses chapter also has information on the policies governing debts owed to CSUH.
7.	Can I use university research facilities after I have taken all my required units?   If you have completed all the units required for your master's degree, but are still working on your thesis, project, or studying for a comprehensive exam, you can have continued access to university facilities by registering for GS X6990 Graduate Study Completion, through the Division of Continuing and International Education. This is a 1-unit course with a fee of $36. The other alternative is to register for "0" units through the regular registration process at a cost of approximately $560. Registering for GS X6990 will provide you with a valid Student ID card, the ability to check books out of the library, remote access to computerized databases in the library, use of computer labs on campus, the ability to continue to work on projects in science labs, eligibility to purchase a parking permit, and access to other benefits enjoyed by regularly registered students.   Note: GS X6990 cannot be used to satisfy any unit or course requirements for your degree.   You can register by picking up a "GS X6990 Graduate Study Completion Form" in your department or in the Continuing and International Education Office in WA 804.
8.	How is residence for tuition purposes determined?   Enrollment Services determines residence status of all new and returning students for nonresident tuition purposes. For information on the criteria used in making this determination, as well as residence determination dates, see the Admissions/Undergraduate chapter in this catalog. (Legal residents of California are not charged tuition, only fees. See "What is Nonresident Tuition?" below.)
9.	What is Nonresident Tuition?   Nonresident Tuition (in addition to other fees charged to all students) per unit or fraction thereof is $188.   (Note: The total amount of nonresident tuition charged is based on the number of units taken, including those in excess of fifteen. Fees are subject to change without advance notice.)
10.	What are the requirements for a master's degree?   You must complete the five requirements listed below:   1.  Fulfill the University Writing Skills Requirement;   2.  Be Advanced to Candidacy;   3.  Complete at least 45 quarter units applicable to your degree (45-52 in the Special Major, 48 in Public Administration, 52-54 in Multimedia, 72 in Counseling).   •  All units must be earned within the five calendar years immediately preceding the receipt of your degree. (Outdated units may be accepted for one additional year with the approval of your department and the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs and Graduate Studies. If not completed in the sixth year, currency in the subject matter of the outdated courses must be demonstrated. Courses older than seven years cannot be applied to the degree.)   •  No more than 13 units can be completed when not in residence in your program (e.g., while at other schools, while an undergraduate with permission to take graduate courses, while pursuing an additional baccalaureate degree in "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" status, while enrolled in another graduate degree program, or while enrolled in Extension courses-including Open University courses)   •  At least 1/2 of the units in your program must be 6000-level   •  No lower division units can be counted   •  No more than 9 units of thesis and/or project work can be counted   •  No more than 15 units may be in CR/NC courses (16 in Public Administration, 24 in Counseling)   4.  Complete a program of study approved by your department, which must include a thesis, project, or comprehensive examination; and   5.  Earn a 3.0 grade point average in all units counted towards your degree.
11.	What is the University Writing Skills Requirement (UWSR)?   You must demonstrate writing skills competency by satisfying the University Writing Skills requirement (UWSR). This can be done in one of five ways:   1.  By satisfying the UWSR as an undergraduate at Cal State Hayward. (See "What is the University Writing Skills Requirement?" in the B.A./B.S. Degree Requirements chapter).   2.  By having previously satisfied the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement at another CSU campus. (Cal State Hayward will accept certification of completion if the entire requirement, as specified by that CSU campus, was satisfied.)   3.  By receiving an essay score of 4.5 or higher on the GMAT or GRE, or an essay score of 53 or higher on the CBEST.   4.  By passing the Writing Skills Test (WST).   5.  By passing approved first- and second-tier writing courses (see below).   If you have not satisfied the University Writing Skills Requirement before you begin your graduate work, you must take the Writing Skills Test (or begin the coursework by taking the first-tier course) by the end of your first quarter in "Conditionally Classified graduate" status. If you do not take the test or course when required, you will have a hold placed on your record and may be dropped from your courses. If you think your writing is competent, you should take the Writing Skills Test. The UWSR must be satisfied before you can be admitted as a "Classified Graduate" student and, consequently, before you can be Advanced to Candidacy and receive a degree.   As soon as you have been admitted to a graduate program, you will be required to take the Writing Skills Test or begin the coursework if you did not satisfy the UWSR as an undergraduate or by your essay score on the GMAT, GRE, or CBEST. For details about the test, contact the Testing Office (WA 438; Tel. 510-885-3662). When you pass the WST or the second-tier writing course, you have satisfied the UWSR for graduation.   The Writing Skills Test consists of an analytic essay that requires you to demonstrate that you can think critically and analyze a short text. You pass the WST and satisfy the University Writing Skills Requirement with an essay score of 8 or above. If you fail the WST, you have only one opportunity to take it again. If you fail it again, your highest score of the two will determine your placement in courses. If your score is 6 or below, you will take both first- and second-tier courses (see description below). If your score is 7, you will take only a second-tier course to satisfy the UWSR. If you choose the option of the Writing Skills Test but do not show up for the exam, you will be blocked from registration in the following term until you re-register for the exam.   If you choose to enroll in courses rather than take the WST, you must complete two levels: (1) a first-tier course, ENGL 3000 or 3001 (designed to benefit ESL students), and (2) an approved second-tier writing course (normally in the college of your major) which addresses rhetorical approaches and strategies and is taken in the quarter after passing ENGL 3000 or 3001. (A list of approved second-tier writing courses appears in the online Class Schedule each quarter. The currently approved courses are: ENGL 3003 Discursive Writing, MKTG 3495 Business Communication, MLL 3119 French Literature in English Translation, SCI 3010 Writing in Sciences.)   If you choose the option of coursework, or are placed into a first-tier course after failing the exam, your writing will be judged by portfolio assessment at the end of the first-tier course. Portfolio evaluators (not your instructor) will give you a Credit ("CR") or No Credit ("NC") grade as defined below:   "CR": need to take a second-tier course; "CR": satisfied the writing skills requirement (a notation that reads "Graduation Writing Skills Req Completed" will be added to your transcript); "NC": need to take the first-tier course again.   To satisfy the UWSR with coursework, you must pass the second-tier writing course with a grade of "C-" or better or a first-tier course with a grade of "CR" and portfolio evaluator recommendation. (If you do not pass the second-tier course with a grade of "C-" or higher, you must repeat it or take a different second-tier course to satisfy the UWSR.)   You may be enrolled in a first-tier course and also take the WST offered that quarter. If you pass the WST, you will be permitted to petition to withdraw from the course.   If you have taken the first-tier course three times consecutively and have not passed, and have a letter of good faith effort from your most recent first-tier instructor, you may apply to the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs and Graduate Studies, for a waiver of the University Writing Skills Requirement. If a waiver is granted, your permanent record will note that you were allowed to graduate without having satisfied the UWSR. If you do not satisfy the requirement and do not have a waiver approved, you will not be allowed to graduate. Contact the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies for information on waivers (WA 859; Tel. 510-885-3718).   If you fail the WST with an essay score of 6 or 7, and receive a grade of "D+" or "D" in a second-tier writing course (taken fall 2000 or later), you may appeal to the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs and Graduate Studies, for a waiver of the University Writing Skills Requirement. If a waiver is granted, your permanent record will note that you were allowed to graduate without having satisfied the UWSR. If you do not satisfy the requirement and do not have a waiver approved, you will not be allowed to graduate. Contact the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies for information on waivers (WA 859; Tel. 510-885-3718).   If you have a verified disability that affects your ability to satisfy this requirement, there is a special appeal process facilitated by the Student Disability Resource Center. Contact that office for details (ST 140; Tel. 510-885-3868).
12.	What is "Candidacy"?   "Candidacy" is a status which recognizes completion of substantial progress towards your degree. You are eligible for Advancement to Candidacy when you:   1.  are a "Classified Graduate" student in good standing;   2.  have completed at least 12 quarter units of 6000-level coursework with a minimum 3.0 GPA;   3.  have designed a formal program of study approved by your graduate advisor;   4.  have fulfilled the University Writing Skills Requirement;   5.  have completed other department prerequisites for advancement; and   6.  are recommended for Advancement to Candidacy by your advisor (subject to approval by your department's graduate coordinator).
13.	What are the characteristics of graduate courses?   You will find that graduate courses involve more complex ideas, materials, techniques, and problems than undergraduate courses, and they demand in-depth research, analysis, and creative thinking.   All graduate studies share the following characteristics:   1.  Identification and investigation of theories and principles;   2.  Application of theories to new ideas, problems, and materials;   3.  Extensive use of bibliographic and other resource materials, with emphasis on primary data sources.   In addition, you can expect each of the following learning formats used in graduate studies to be organized in a similar manner.   Lecture-discussion courses combine lectures with group discussion, and are based on specialized studies and research. These courses consider relevant issues, examine different perspectives, include problem analysis and research, and require a high level of participation on your part. The variety of resources used provide a range and depth beyond that obtainable through a single text. You will be expected to demonstrate your ability to synthesize and analyze material in your written work and in examinations which will go beyond mere recall of factual information.   Seminars are organized around a series of significant, related issues and their focus may vary from quarter to quarter. Occasional lectures are limited to framing and clarifying issues, while the bulk of the course is devoted to the development, presentation, and critical examination of material, ideas, and conclusions by you and other students. Seminars are among the most exciting and stimulating learning formats in graduate studies.   Laboratory coursework focuses on data gathering, analysis, and interpretation. Specialized facilities and equipment are used. You are expected to pursue your research with relative independence.   Field work and clinical practice require that you possess a high level of theoretical competence and a mastery of the basic skills necessary to perform professional duties with minimal direction. You will have opportunities to apply your knowledge, exercise independent judgment, and assume responsibility for determining and implementing procedures. You are expected to report your experience in a way that indicates its significance, explains the rationale behind your major decisions, and evaluates its effectiveness.   An independent study is jointly designed by you and your professor with a specific objective related to your graduate program. It requires demonstration of competence through scholarly presentation of the results of your work during the course of the study and at its conclusion. Graduate Independent Study (6900) is restricted to students with at least a 3.00 GPA in the field or department in which the Independent Study is to be taken.
14.	What are the different kinds of capstone experiences?   The capstone experience of your graduate program will be the successful completion of a thesis, project, or comprehensive examination. The quality of your work, including quality of expression, is the major consideration in judging the success of this degree component.   Thesis A thesis is the written product of a systematic study of a significant issue. In the thesis, you are expected to identify the issue, state your major assumptions, explain the significance of your project, detail your sources for and methods of obtaining data, provide analysis of the data, and offer conclusions. Your thesis should demonstrate original critical and independent thinking, appropriate organization and format, and thorough documentation. If your research involves human subjects, your protocols must be approved by the Institutional Review Board (see "Research with Human Subjects" in the Appendix).   Cal State Hayward offers two kinds of master's degree theses, University Thesis (numbered 6910) and Departmental Thesis (numbered 6909). Most criteria are the same for both.   •  You must be a graduate student (i.e., admitted to a master's degree program) to enroll in a thesis course; your department may add additional requirements.   •  Your thesis work will be supervised by a departmental committee which must include at least one Cal State Hayward faculty member who is a member of your major department.   •  You may not receive credit for more units of thesis work than allowed by your degree program.   •  Each quarter you will receive a grade of "RP" (Report in Progress) for units earned in 6909 or 6910 until you complete your thesis; you will then be given a final grade for the entire course. No "RP" units will be counted towards your degree or in calculating your GPA. If your thesis is not approved within five years of your initial enrollment in a thesis course, the "RP" grade(s) will be changed to "F" or "NC" (depending on the grading pattern of the course).   •  Normally you will be required to present an oral defense of your thesis.   There are also a few significant differences between the two kinds of theses.   •  You may not earn more than 9 units for University Thesis, while the maximum for Departmental Thesis is 5 units. Several departments have lower unit requirements, so check the program description in this catalog.   •  The format of a University Thesis is established by the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs and Graduate Studies. Since these works are expected to serve as resources for future research, the format is formal, and the theses are bound and placed in the Cal State Hayward Library. A Departmental Thesis, on the other hand, is usually not as formal. Its standards and format are determined by the department, and the thesis is retained by the department. For details regarding the approval process, format and timeline for a University Thesis, contact the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office (WA 859) at 510-885-3286, or visit their website at: http://www.csuhayward.edu/csuh_students/thesis/thesis.html. For information about a Department Thesis, contact your department advisor or graduate coordinator.   Project A project is a significant piece of non-written work in either a fine or applied art or a professional field. Your project should provide evidence of originality, independent thinking, and appropriate form and organization. You are required to describe your project in a written abstract that addresses the project's significance, objectives, methodology, and conclusions. In some cases, you may be required to present an oral defense.   Specific criteria for a Project (numbered 6899) are the same as those for a Departmental Thesis with a few exceptions.   •  An "RP" grade in a project course will become an "F" (no "NC" option) after one year if your project is not completed.   •  While your project need not be considered a research resource, it should be of a caliber to constitute a valid terminal activity in a master's degree program and will be permitted only when a thesis is not appropriate.   If you change from a program requiring a thesis to one requiring a project (or vice versa), you may count a combined maximum of 9 units for 6909, 6910, and 6899 towards your degree.   Comprehensive Examination A comprehensive examination is intended to assess your mastery of relevant subject matter, your ability to analyze and integrate the knowledge of your field, your skill in critical and independent thinking, and your use of appropriate organization and accurate documentation. A record of your examination (questions and responses) will be retained by your department. Some departments grant unit credit for exam preparation while others do not.
15.	If I choose to write a University Thesis, what are the steps I must follow?   You should consult your graduate advisor for information on your department's guidelines, for thesis topics, and for the procedures to establish a thesis committee. Also, obtain a copy of the University Thesis Writing Guide from the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office (WA 859), or online at http://imctwo.csuhayward.edu/grad/utwg.htm. This is available at no cost, and contains detailed instructions regarding the structural elements of the thesis, its format, binding information, deadlines, numbers of copies, and other useful information. Once your committee is established and you have selected your topic, enroll in your department's University Thesis (6910) course.   Your next step is to obtain the necessary approvals of your topic and proposed research methodology, and, ultimately, of your thesis itself. These are obtained in the following sequence:   •  Approval of your topic by the chair of your University Thesis Committee;   •  Approval of your research protocol by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) if your research will involve human subjects, to determine whether subjects will be at risk and to protect their rights and welfare;   •  Approval of the preliminary draft of your thesis by the chair of your thesis committee;   •  Approval of the draft by the department chair (if this is required by your department).   Once your draft is completed and approved, you will begin preparing your manuscript for binding according to the requirements in the University Thesis Writing Guide. All students must adhere to these standards, so read the guide before beginning this phase of your work. It literally may prevent your thesis from being rejected, at great cost of time and funds.   Your final draft must be submitted to the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office which will review your thesis format. Once the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office approves the format, give the original copy of your thesis to your committee chair for final review and signature, and then give copies to the other members of your committee for their signatures. An oral defense is normally required prior to committee approval; check with your department.   Your final step is to provide the appropriate number of copies of your thesis to the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office for binding and distribution. The cost is available from the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office.   The coordination of the preceding steps is quite important. The Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office establishes deadlines for the last few steps (which are strictly enforced) to ensure that each is completed appropriately without delaying your graduation. Please contact the Academic Programs and Graduate Studies Office early in your thesis work to obtain the deadline information.
16.	What are the policies that affect my registration, grades and academic status?   Registration As a graduate student, you must follow the same registration policies and procedures as undergraduate students. (See the Registration chapter for details.)   Registration procedures for Thesis or Project courses is slightly different. You must complete a "Special Registration Petition" for each quarter you wish to enroll in one of these courses. Submit it to your department office. This must be done no later than the last day of the Add period. You are responsible for checking on the progress of this procedure.   Prerequisites: See "What information do I need to register for and enroll in classes?" in the Registration chapter.   Grading It is an integral part of the teaching responsibility of the faculty to provide careful evaluation and timely assignment of an appropriate grade to each enrolled student. There is a presumption that grades assigned are correct. It is the responsibility of anyone appealing an assigned grade to demonstrate otherwise. In the absence of compelling reasons, such as instructor or clerical error, prejudice, or capriciousness, the grade determined by the instructor of record will be considered final. Final course grades must be submitted by the faculty to Enrollment Services no later than noon of the second academic day after the end of the Final Examination Period.   For purposes of correcting an error, an instructor may change a grade with approval of his/her department chair and college dean. No grade may be changed once your graduation has been recorded. The administrative symbol for withdrawal cannot be assigned by a faculty member. See "What changes can I make in my enrollment status?" in the Registration chapter for a description of withdrawal policies and procedures.   The grading symbols used for graduate courses are as follows:     Academic Grades Standard of Work Represented Grade (Quality) Points   A A- B+ B B- C+ C C- D+ D F   CR NC     Superior Superior Adequate Adequate Adequate Substandard Substandard Substandard Unacceptable Unacceptable Failing   Credit No Credit   4.0 3.7 3.3 3.0 2.7 2.3 2.0 1.7 1.3 1.0 0   0 0         Administrative Grading Symbols   Definitions Grade (Quality) Points Earned   RP   Report in Progress   0.0 I Incomplete (Authorized) 0.0 IC Incomplete Charged 0.0 RD Report Delayed 0.0 W Withdrawal 0.0 WU Withdrawal Unauthorized 0.0 AU Audit 0.0     Academic Grades: The typical grading pattern for courses you will take is "A-F"; the use of "+" and "-" is at the discretion of each instructor. Some departments do not allow "C" or "D" grades to be applied towards a master's degree; check with your department about its policy. You may use courses taken on a "CR/NC" basis to meet your degree requirements only if the courses are offered exclusively on that basis. Typically, these courses are restricted to fieldwork and internships and a "CR" grade indicates that your work is at least of "B-" quality. In no case, however, may more than 15 units of your master's degree work be earned with "CR" grades in the standard 45-unit master's degree program. In postbaccalaureate (5000-level) courses, a "CR" grade also indicates that your work is at least of "B-" quality.   Administrative Grades: You may also receive the administrative grades indicated above. It is important that you observe the differences among them. As noted earlier in the section "What are the different kinds of capstone experiences?," the Report in Progress grade ("RP") is used in courses when assigned work extends beyond one quarter. It indicates that work is in progress and has been evaluated and found satisfactory to date, but that assignment of a precise grade must await completion of additional work. You cannot enroll in more units of RP-graded courses than are applicable to your degree. An "RP" in a thesis course becomes an "F" or an "NC" if the work is not completed in five years; an "RP" grade in any other course becomes an "F" or an "NC" after one year.   The Incomplete (Authorized) grade ("I") is used to indicate that a portion of required coursework has not been completed and evaluated in the prescribed time period due to unforeseen but fully justified reasons, and your instructor believes it likely that you will earn credit for the course upon completion of that work. However, you may not receive an "I" when completion of the coursework requires that you retake a major portion of the course when it is next offered. An "I" must normally be made up within one calendar year immediately following the end of the term during which it was assigned. This limitation prevails whether or not you maintain continuous enrollment. If you receive an "I" and do not complete the work within the period specified by your instructor (in no case to exceed one year), the grade will be changed to an "IC" or "NC," depending on the grading pattern in which you enrolled. (An extension may be granted by the department if military service or serious health or personal problems prevent you from completing the work, or if the professor is away on leave during the quarter of expiration. Such extensions are for one quarter only, up to a maximum of two extensions, and must be approved by the instructor and the department chair. Written notification of the extension must be sent to Enrollment Services.)   An Incomplete Charged ("IC")is used when you receive an authorized incomplete ("I"), but do not complete the required coursework within the allowed time, and the original grading pattern of the course was "A-F." The "IC" replaces the "I" and is counted as a failing grade for computing your grade point average.   A Withdrawal Unauthorized ("WU") indicates that you enrolled in a course, but did not withdraw from the course and also failed to complete course requirements. It is used when, in the opinion of the instructor, completed assignments or course activities, or both, were insufficient to make normal evaluation of academic performance possible. The "WU" is counted in your grade point average as an "F" grade.   The Report Delayed grade ("RD") is rarely used, and will be assigned by the Registrar only if grade reports are delayed by circumstances beyond your control, such as your instructor's illness.   You may drop a course at any time during the first two weeks of instruction. (For Drop procedures, see the Class Schedule.) No mention of a dropped course appears on your permanent record. After the first two weeks of the quarter, deletion of a course is considered a Withdrawal, and a "W" grade will be assigned if the reason for your request to withdraw from the course is due to circumstances beyond your control and you have obtained the appropriate approvals. This grade carries no connotation as to the quality of your work and is not included in GPA calculations. Under extreme circumstances you may decide that you must withdraw from all your courses. If you believe this may be necessary, contact your graduate advisor or department chair as soon as possible for advice on the appropriate procedures to follow. (See "What changes can I make in my enrollment status?" in the Registration chapter and "What are the administrative grading symbols, and what do they signify?" in the undergraduate Grading and Academic Standards chapter for additional information on withdrawal procedures.)   Grade Point Average (GPA): Your grade point average (GPA) is calculated by dividing the total number of quality hours (units you have attempted, excluding CR/NC courses) into the number of grade (quality) points earned. If you repeat a course, your department has the discretion not to include your earlier attempt in your GPA calculation. The approval not to include the earlier attempt in your degree program must be submitted by your department to Enrollment Services. This may be done at any time while you are in the degree program, but may not be done after you have been awarded your degree. You may also ask your department to exclude a course from your master's degree program. Follow the same procedure outlined above.   Final Examinations: You can expect your instructors to provide you with comprehensive course requirement information for each course at the beginning of the quarter. This will include the work that is expected of you and the basis on which you will be evaluated. Most courses have graded assignments throughout the quarter and a final examination or paper. The university's policy states that final examinations must be given only at the times published in the Class Schedule. The purpose of this policy is to ensure fairness for all students. Exceptions are, therefore, rare and must be approved in writing by the department chair. Contact your department chair or college dean if you believe this policy is not being followed. If you are in a course which has a separate laboratory, activity or discussion section, your instructor is permitted to give a separate final examination (but only for that section) during the last regularly scheduled meeting of the section.   Probation and Disqualification: There are two types of probation and disqualification: 1) academic, and 2) administrative. If you are an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" student, not in a master's degree or credential program, all of the following policies apply except that your minimum GPA requirement is 2.50 instead of 3.00.   Academic Probation You must maintain a 3.00 GPA in your degree coursework to remain in good standing. If your GPA falls below 3.00, you will be placed on Academic Probation. Should this happen, you must consult with your graduate advisor prior to registering for the next quarter. You are also encouraged to take advantage of various university services (such as advising and tutoring) designed to assist you. You may, however, be academically disqualified by the Associate Vice President of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies if you do not earn a 3.00 GPA during any quarter while on probation, or if, at any time, you do not meet the academic criteria of your department.   Administrative Probation You may be placed on Administrative Probation if you:   •  withdraw from all courses for two consecutive quarters or any three quarters;   •  do not progress towards your degree while enrolled (such as earning a number of "NC" grades);   •  do not comply with appropriate academic requirements (such as taking the Writing Skills Test); or   •  earn only "IC," "F," "WU," and/or "NC" grades for two consecutive, or any three quarters.   Administrative Disqualification You will be administratively disqualified if you:   •  do not meet the conditions for removal of your Administrative Probation;   •  are placed on Administrative Probation twice for the same reason;   •  are placed on Academic Probation while on Administrative Probation; or   •  earn only "IC," "F," "WU," and/or "NC" grades for two consecutive, or any three quarters.   If you are disqualified, either academically or administratively, you may apply for reinstatement to your graduate program by completing a "Petition for Graduate Reinstatement." Your petition must be approved by your Graduate Coordinator or the department chair. Reinstatement will be approved only if you are able to provide compelling evidence of your ability to complete your degree. Then it will be forwarded for consideration to the Associate Vice President of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies who has final authority to approve reinstatement. If you are disqualified a second time, reinstatement will normally not be considered.   Resolution of Disputes If you believe you have received an inappropriate grade or have been treated in an unfair or discriminatory way and you cannot resolve the matter informally with the instructor and department chair, you should present your case to the Presidential appointee to the Fairness Committee, the Assistant Vice President, Instructional Services, no later than one quarter after the disputed grade was recorded. The Fairness Committee may authorize a change of grade under certain circumstances (see the undergraduate Grading and Academic Standards chapter). If the instructor of record does not assign a grade to an individual student, the appropriate failing grade for nonattendance ("WU" or "NC") is automatically recorded by Enrollment Services. You may petition the Fairness Committee if you believe the instructor should have assigned an academic grade. If the instructor of record is unable to assign course grades, the Fairness Committee is authorized to ensure that other qualified faculty do assign grades. For additional information, see "What recourse do I have if I believe I have received a grade that is inappropriate?" in the undergraduate Grading and Academic Standards chapter.   Honors Because graduate students constitute a select group whose members do very well in their programs, there is no academic honors at graduation or dean's list recognition as is the case for undergraduates.
17.	What determines my post-baccalaureate classification at Cal State Hayward?   You will be classified a full- or part-time student according to the following criteria:   •  Full-time enrollment for a "Graduate" or "Classified Post-baccalaureate" student is 8 or more units. You are considered to be a part-time student if you are enrolled for fewer than 8 units.   •  Full-time enrollment for an "Unclassified Post-baccalaureate" student (i.e., not enrolled in a master's degree program), is 12 or more units.   •  If you are receiving financial aid or benefits from other programs (e.g., Veterans Administration or State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation), you may be subject to specific enrollment requirements to maintain your eligibility. You should check directly with the source of your benefits.   •  If you are an international student on a non-immigrant visa, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) requires that you pursue a full-time course of study in a specific program. You are expected to complete 8 units per quarter and 24 per year.   Also see "Academic Load" in the Registration chapter.
18.	May I receive credit for courses taken elsewhere?   If you have earned credit at another institution which you wish to apply to your graduate program at Cal State Hayward, you may transfer up to 13 quarter units. (However, this number may be reduced if you have other non-residence credit you wish to apply to your degree.) To request transfer credit:   1.  you must have taken the course after earning a bachelor's degree;   2.  your department must accept the course(s) as relevant to your degree program;   3.  the institution at which you took the course must customarily grant the level of credit for the course (graduate or upper division) that you wish to receive for it at Cal State Hayward;   4.  you must have taken the course within five calendar years immediately preceding the receipt of your degree.   You also may apply units earned through the CSU International Programs that meet the criteria outlined above. No more than half of the 45 units required for your degree may be earned in this way. If you also apply transfer credits to your degree, the total of the transfer and International Program units may not exceed one-half of those required for your degree. If you complete your capstone experience (thesis, project, or comprehensive examination) while in the International Programs, this must be done under the supervision of at least one Cal State Hayward faculty member.   Also see "Credit for Non-Collegiate Instruction" in the Registration chapter.   In general, Cal State Hayward does not allow the use of credit-by-examination from challenged courses for master's degree requirements. Exceptions may be established by individual departments and must be noted in the degree description in the University Catalog. They are governed by the following policies:   •  you must pass the exam challenging the course with a grade of "B-" or better;   •  no more than 13 units of credit-by-examination may be applied to your degree; and   •  challenged courses may not be credited to the residency requirement of your degree.
19.	How can I change my educational objective?   If you are a continuing post-baccalaureate student and wish to change your degree objective or credential program, or you wish to change from "Unclassified" status to a graduate degree or credential program, you must complete a "Change of Graduate Objective Application" form and a "Change of Graduate Objective Transmittal" form and submit both forms to Enrollment Services. The forms are available from, and shall be turned in to, either the Student Information Lobby of Warren Hall or the Academic Services Center at the Contra Costa campus.   Enrollment Services will complete the academic certification section of the "Transmittal" form and will forward all documents to your proposed new department which makes the admission decision. Your department will notify you and Enrollment Services of the decision. Changes made after the second week of the quarter will not take effect until the following quarter
20.	How can I pursue two master's degrees at the same time?   If you wish to pursue two master's degrees at the same time, you should:   1.  decide which master's will be your first degree and which will be your second degree;   2.  apply and be admitted to the university and your first master's degree;   3.  obtain a "Dual Masters Degree Permission Form" from the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies (Warren Hall 859) and complete Section 1 of the form. The Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies will complete Section 2 and obtain the signatures of the Graduate Coordinators for your first and second master's degrees in Section 3. Only the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs and Graduate Studies, can give final approval for a student to pursue two master's degrees simultaneously.   If your petition is approved, you will:   1.  fulfill all prerequisites and requirements for your first degree;   2.  fulfill all prerequisites and requirements for your second degree (up to 13 units from your first degree may be applied to your second degree if agreed to by your second degree program);   3.  earn all units for each master's degree within the five calendar years immediately preceding the receipt of each degree.   If your second degree is in the same field as your first degree (e.g., business administration), the second degree must be in a different option and all 45 or more units must be different. The prerequisites and requirements for the first degree do not need to be completed before you begin work on the second degree, however, you may be Advanced to Candidacy for your second degree only after you have been awarded your first degree. You may not receive both master's degrees in the same quarter.
21.	How can I pursue a second master's degree?   If you already have a master's degree and want to pursue a second master's degree, you must meet the following criteria:   1.  apply and gain admission to the department offering the second master's degree program;   2.  fulfill all prerequisites and requirements for the second degree;   3.  complete at least 32 units (32-39 in the Special Major, 35 in Public Administration, 39-41 in Multimedia, 59 in Counseling) in your second degree. Up to 13 units from your first degree may be applied to your second degree if accepted by your second degree program;   4.  earn all units for your second master's degree within the five calendar years immediately preceding the receipt of the degree.   If your second degree is in the same field as your first degree (e.g. business administration), the second degree must be in a different option and all 45 or more units must be different.
22.	How do I apply for graduation?   Obtain your "Degree Candidacy Form" with department approval from your major department (the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies, WA 859, if you are a Special Major). Be sure to list all options you plan to complete as part of your degree. You must do this no later than the end of the Add/Drop Period the quarter preceding your final quarter. (The exact date is published in the quarterly Class Schedule.)   Submit the "Degree Candidacy Form" and the graduation filing fee to the Cashier's Office in the first floor Lobby of Warren Hall (or the Student Services Center at the Contra Costa Campus).   The fee is non-refundable, but if you don't graduate when you intended, the fee will be transferred to the subsequent quarter automatically. Your graduation quarter can be moved a maximum of three consecutive terms, after which you must re-file and pay a graduation filing fee again. Submit the "Change of Degree Candidacy Form" to the Student Information Lobby of Warren Hall. This should be done no later than twenty-four hours prior to the opening of your window to register for a given quarter, and no later than the end of the Add/Drop period of the quarter originally intended to be your final quarter. Changes in the information on the diploma (e.g., change of name) or the diploma mailing address must be submitted no later than the end of the Add/Drop period of the intended quarter of graduation.   Check with your department by the end of the fifth week of classes of your next to last quarter to be certain your major check has been submitted to Enrollment Services. If it is not submitted by this time, your graduation will be delayed a quarter.   If you are completing an undergraduate Single Subject Matter Preparation Program for entry into a teaching credential program, or you are completing a graduate Single or Multiple Subject Credential Program, be certain that the appropriate check sheet is submitted by the department or program committee offering the program to the Credential Student Service Center in the College of Education and Allied Studies.   Enrollment Services will email your "Degree Progress Report" to your Horizon email account before the end of the Add/Drop Period of your final quarter. This check sheet is the official statement of your status. It shows all degree requirements that are completed, in progress, and to be completed.   Once you have completed all degree requirements and Enrollment Services has verified completion, your degree will be posted to your transcript and your diploma mailed to you within three months.   Once your degree is posted to your permanent record, your diploma and transcript cannot be altered by adding additional options, nor by grade changes or withdrawals unless a documentable clerical error has been made.
23.	Who can answer my questions?   If you have any questions about your graduate work at Cal State Hayward (information either addressed or not addressed in this section), do not hesitate to consult your advisor, your department's graduate coordinator or chair, or the Associate Vice President of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies.
Footnotes	Fee adjustments subject to the policies established in Executive Order 661.     Note that a "B-" grade, though described as "adequate," generates fewer than 3.0 grade (quality) points and must be balanced by a grade of "B+" or higher.     These grades cannot be selected by students. They are only available in graduate courses offered exclusively on a "Credit/No Credit" basis.     For definitions of administrative grades, see "What are the administrative grading symbols, and what do they signify?" in the undergraduate Grading and Academic Standards chapter.     This is the only administrative grade used in calculating the GPA. It is equivalent to an "F."
	© 2004 The California State University Last Updated: March 8, 2004