WHICH
COLLEGE IS BEST FOR YOU, UNIVERSITY OF
CALIFORNIA OR CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY?
The University of California and California State University systems
comprise the four-year segments of the California System of Higher
Education. In making your decision about which system to attend, it is
important to recognize that each system has a different mission. The
difference in mission is reflected in both freshman and transfer
admissions requirements, the majors available, the types of degrees
offered, and the nature of the curriculum. Listed below are some of the
important differences between the two university systems which may
assist you in selecting the university system which will best fit your
needs.
MISSION:
UC: To provide undergraduate and graduate
instruction through the doctoral degree with emphasis on research and
professional education. Offers preprofessional programs in law,
medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine.
CSU: To provide undergraduate and graduate instruction through the master's degree in liberal arts and sciences and professional education, including teacher education.
CURRICULUM:
UC: Undergraduate programs are designed to
prepare students for graduate and professional work. Curriculum
emphasizes theory and professional preparation. The UC has a
theoretical approach to its programs of study and the typical student
is pursuing a degree beyond a bachelor’s degree. The theoretical
approach taken at the UC system suits those students best because they
learn critical research skills necessary to be successful in
research-oriented study in graduate school.
CSU: Undergraduate programs are designed to provide a combination of theory and application necessary for graduate work or employment in one's chosen field of study. The CSU prepares about 60 percent of the teachers in the state, 40 percent of the engineering graduates, and more graduates in business, communications, health, education and public administration than all other California universities and colleges combined
WHICH
IS BETTER FOR YOU?
Although it is true that the UCs are more difficult to get admitted
into, a UC may not be the best school for you to attend. Here’s why: At
the UCs, the programs are more research and theory-oriented. Students
study how and why things happen. For example, in a teacher education
program, students would study how people learn and various theories of
teaching methodologies. On the flip side, the CSUs were actually
created as “teaching colleges”. Therefore the type of education you
will receive will be more hands-on and teach more practical approaches.
A teacher education program at a CSU may focus more on specific
teaching methods and lesson plans. Depending on your major and what you
are looking for, a CSU may have a more applicable program.
COSTS:
Approximate tuition and fees for the 2010-2011 school year
California State University (CSU): varies by campus but approximate $5,346, including books, housing and miscellaneous fees etc.: $20,195
University of California (UC): $11,285, including books, housing and miscellaneous fees etc.: $29,450
Expenses other than basic fees and housing costs may vary from campus to campus.
Both university systems have the same minimum subject requirements called the ”a-g” courses which must be completed with a C or better.
History/Social Science – 2 years required, including one year of world history and one year of U.S. history or 1 half year of U.S. history and 1 half year of American Government
English – 4 years of college preparatory
Mathematics – 3 years required, including Algebra I, Ggeometry, and Algebra II
Laboratory Science - 2 years, Lab Biology, Chemistry or Physics
Foreign Language – 2 years in the same language other than English
Visual and Performing Arts – 1 year required, either Dance, Drama/Theater, Music or Visual art
College Preparatory Electives – 1 year of college preparatory elective from any of the “a-f” areas.