The University was recognized for excellence in the areas of student engagement, faculty, student life, and student outcomes.
California University of Pennsylvania has been selected as a 2020-2021 College of Distinction for the school’s commitment to undergraduate education.
The University was honored as a College of Distinction for excellence in the areas of student engagement, faculty, student life, and student outcomes.
In addition to the overall College of Distinction award, Cal U received special recognition for the first time in programming for Military Support and Equity and Inclusion. The University was again honored for programming in Business, Education, Engineering, and Career Development. Criteria include program accreditation, breadth of programs and track record for success.
“Cal U provides an amazing opportunity for students from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and become a valuable member of society,” said Dr. Daniel E. Engstrom, interim provost/vice president for Academic Affairs. “Our faculty and staff genuinely care about the success of each student. They want to see each student be successful in an out of the classroom.
“We are also proud/pleased to have been recognized for our longtime support of our military students and for the strong commitment Cal U has made for equity and inclusion of our students with many programs and support groups.”
Specific Endorsements
Military Support: Cal U’s Office of Military and Veterans Affairs offers comprehensive support for veterans, eligible dependents, service members of the National Guard and Reserve, and active-duty service members. Cal U also offers Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC).
Equity and Inclusion: Operated by Cal U's Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Jennie Adams Carter Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strives to create an inclusive and welcoming environment by developing programs and events honoring different cultures.
Business: Cal U prepares future leaders with Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degrees in accounting, corporate communications, economics, finance, human resource management, integrated global business, management, management information systems, marketing, and interdisciplinary studies in business and commerce. Students also can develop expertise in specialized areas, such as corporate communication.
Education: Cal U has a long-standing reputation for producing top teachers. The University takes a hands-on approach to teacher training, based on the belief that students should be actively involved in their own knowledge construction, rather than passively receiving information. Future teachers can focus on undergraduate concentrations in childhood education and secondary education.
Engineering: STEM programs such as Cal U’s computer engineering technology and mechatronics engineering technology programs teach students to apply current technologies to practical problems and situations. Graduates are ready for careers in engineering technology, manufacturing and a variety of related industries.
Career Development: Cal U offers students a four-year plan that helps them choose a major, gain internship experience, build an effective resume and connect with employers. Handshake, an online career and internship resource, allows students to access more than a million job postings.
About Colleges of Distinction
For 20 years, Colleges of Distinction has recognized and honored schools throughout the United States for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. For information, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.