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Open University at CSULB

What Is Open University?

Open University at CSULB lets anyone take regular university courses for credit — without applying for the university. Whether you're looking to advance your career, make progress toward a degree, or explore new topics, anyone can enroll in available Spring and Fall semester classes without going through the admissions process.

Brotman Hall on the CSULB campus
The Walter Pyramid at CSULB
The CSULB campus on a fall afternoon

Who Can Enroll?

There’s no application and no admission decision, so Open University works for a wide range of students:

🏫 Students from other colleges or universities

💼 Working professionals seeking career advancement

🔄 CSULB students who have been academically disqualified

🧑‍🎓 High school students with a principal or counselor recommendation

🌱 Lifelong learners interested in personal enrichment

How It Works

Enrolling takes three steps, and you can start browsing courses before registration opens.

  1. Browse Courses: Visit the Fall 2026 class schedule and identify the classes you'd like to register for. You can only enroll in courses that have available seats at the time of registration.
  2. Complete the Registration Form: Coming soon! Submit your course selections and instructor approvals (if needed).
  3. Start Learning: Attend class, complete coursework, and earn academic credit—no formal admission required.
Explore Fall 2026 Courses

Need More Information?

For full details about deadlines, costs, grading options, withdrawals, refunds, and more, visit our Open U webpage.

📧 If you still have questions, feel free to contact us at cpace-info@csulb.edu.

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