Please refer to the Otter Crosswalk to see the relationship between the current GE system and the previous ULR-GE system, as it provides links to approved courses for all students trying to complete their general education requirements.
General Education Requirements
The State of California requires completion of a 48 unit General Education Breadth program which includes a minimum of 9 upper division GE semester units taken no sooner than the term in which the student achieves upper division status (60+ units).
Lower Division
First Year Seminar
Students entering CSUMB as Freshman or Lower Division Transfer Students with fewer than 30 units are required to complete FYS. This course will also meet one of the A-E GE requirements.
American Institutions
The CSU requires each student receiving a baccalaureate degree to be knowledgeable about the Constitution of the United States, American history, and state and local government. Courses fulfilling this requirement are identified in the catalog, and will also meet an Area D GE requirement.
Lower Division Service Learning
Courses fulfilling this requirement offer 2 units of lower division GE in Area D, and also offer additional units in an affiliated Area A-E GE-certified course.
Language Proficiency Requirement
Students are assumed to begin language study at the 102 level and are required to demonstrate proficiency through the 201 (intermediate) level. Four units of language will count toward Area C GE units. Students transferring into and graduating from an approved high-unit major who are either A-E Complete or who have 60+ units are exempted. Students should consult their advisor for more information.
Upper Division
Upper Division Service Learning
Courses fulfilling this requirement must be taken no sooner than the term in which the student achieves upper division status (60+ units). UDSL courses offer 2 units of upper division GE in Area D, and also offer additional units counting toward another GE area or the major.
Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement
Many courses on campus satisfy the GWAR. Students should consult with their academic advisor, as some GWAR-approved courses also meet major requirements.
Major Requirements
The State of California requires students to complete a minimum of 24 units in their major program of study (36 units for a BS). These units are earned through successful completion of required courses, outcomes, and experiences. Students should reference the University Catalog to identify specific program requirements.
Major Learning Outcomes
All CSUMB major degree programs have a set of learning outcomes that students must satisfy through aligned courses or alternate assessments, as designed by the program. The University Catalog lists the MLOs for each degree program.
Concentrations
Many degree programs require students to select a particular area of study within the major in order to attain greater depth of knowledge and understanding. The University Catalog will indicate the options available to students.
Free Electives
The State of California requires a minimum of 120 semester units to be eligible for a baccalaureate degree. Students who complete general education and major requirements in fewer than 120 semester units are able to select additional courses as needed to meet the state requirement.