The application for graduation is available at http://www.calu.edu/prospective/graduate/index.htm or in the office of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. This form must be completed, signed and returned to the School of Graduate Studies and Research by the graduation application date published on the website. This form will be reviewed by the Graduate School office to assure that the student has completed all requirements and fulfilled all obligations.

Students completing requirements for teaching certification must also complete a certification endorsement form. This form must be signed by the program coordinator and by the dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. Graduate students applying for certification must also contact the office of the College of Education and Human Services. Students may not graduate with a failing grade on their transcripts even if the course is not required for their degrees or even if their grade point average is above 3.00.

Degrees are conferred by the University three times each year: May, August  and December. Commencement ceremonies are held in May and December. Information about commencement is available on the website.

Candidates who have been approved for the master's degree planning to participate in commencement are required to purchase or rent a master's cap, gown and hood to be worn at the commencement exercises. They can be obtained from the University bookstore located in the Natali Student Center or through the bookstore website.

The University uses an electronic submission process. Consult the website for current requirements with regard to formatting of the documents.

A limited number of graduate assistantships are available to qualified students. To apply for these positions, send a cover letter and resume highlighting work experience (particularly at a college or university), research experience, etc. to the following areas:
California University of Pennsylvania, 250 University Ave., California, PA 15419
1. School of Graduate Studies and Research — Box 91
2. Office of the President — Box 95
3. Accounting Office — Box 11
4. Student Development and Services — Box 86
5. University Advancement — Box 62

Facts Related to Graduate Assistantships

Assistantships/stipend positions are generally available for four semesters. Students are only eligible for an assistantship/stipend for one degree. If a student is admitted for a second graduate degree, he/she will not be eligible for an assistantship. International students are not eligible for an assistantship/stipend during their first semester. In order to maintain an assistantship/stipend, the student must be in good academic standing and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00. For a full stipend ($4,127/300 hours), the student must be registered for 9 or more graduate credits. Partial stipends may be granted for less than 9 credits. Graduate assistants are required to have a payroll deduction unless otherwise indicated by the Bursar's Office. The graduate assistant salary is considered taxable income and may affect future financial aid eligibility. To check the availability of assistantships, check with the following offices at California University: Graduate Studies (724-938-4187), Administration and Finance (724-938-4432), Student Development and Services (724-938-4439), University Advancement (724-938-5938) and Office of the President (724-938-4400).