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Extended Learning

EL Myths

el building crop2What Is Extended Learning?

You’ve likely heard about Extended Learning (EL) at CSUSM. You might even know we have a new building across the street from the Clarke Field House. But, what exactly is EL?

Founded 30 years ago, Extended Learning is committed to increasing access to lifelong learning throughout the community by providing unique education solutions.

Notably, Extended Learning partners with the university’s four colleges as they develop select graduate and undergraduate degrees and credit-based certificate programs. In EL, we provide support through program management, development funding, recruitment, marketing and student services.

And there’s much more. Our staff runs CSUSM Temecula Campus and the Office of Global Programs and Services, and we administer many of CSUSM’s initiatives, including career-based training and certificate programs, online education, Summer Session, Winter Intersession, Open University and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, to name a few.

It’s a lot to grasp, so it’s understandable that some myths exist about Extended Learning. Let’s clear them up! 

MYTH #1: EL programs are funded by the state.

FACT: EL is a self-supported entity, covering the cost of business through revenues generated by our programs. In addition, EL returns a large portion of revenue to the university each year to support programs, colleges and the university as a whole.

MYTH #2: EL programs are NOT eligible for financial aid.

FACT: Our degrees and credit-based certificate programs are financial-aid eligible. CalGrant works for all CSUSM undergraduate degrees! We even have aid available for our career-based programs, such as assistance for veterans and WIOA funding.

MYTH #3. Temecula Campus students aren’t really CSUSM students.

FACT: The name says it all. Students at CSUSM Temecula Campus complete all of the same rigorous standards and earn the same seal on their diplomas as students in San Marcos.

MYTH #4: Degree programs in EL have different faculty than stateside programs do.

FACT: The 18 degree programs in Extended Learning were developed by the university’s colleges and are taught by the same excellent faculty.

MYTH #5: Degree programs in EL take longer to finish than stateside degree programs do.

FACT: EL students progress in a cohort with the benefit of peer support as well as guaranteed classes and time to graduation. In fact, about 75% of EL students complete their degree program in the recommended two years.

MYTH #6: EL students receive a different degree.

FACT: Same degree. In fact, EL does not dictate program content or curricula. This is controlled by the academic departments. EL is simply the administrative arm to support the program.

MYTH #7: International students take seats from domestic students.

FACT: Research shows that international students fill remaining seats in existing classes. In addition, their tuition and fees help support a university’s general fund, special projects, student support services and additional sections of courses.

MYTH #8: I don’t need a degree, so there’s nothing for me in EL.

FACT: EL also offers credit- and career-based certificate programs, short-term online courses and programs, and individual courses for CSUSM students and the public during Summer Session and Winter Intersession. Osher offers enriching classes for adults 50+. Select EL programs offer a 15-30% savings for staff!

If you still have questions, you can learn more at Extended Learning Website or reach out to us at EL Staff. We would love to hear from you!