Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What doctoral degrees could be offered? What does “professional” or “applied” mean, as are sometimes referred to in context of this expanded authority?

New degree programs are not limited by any formal definition of “professional” or “applied,” only that they must not be duplicative of existing UC doctoral programs, and should have accompanying statewide workforce data relevant to the proposed doctoral program. Examples could include a doctorate in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, Counseling Education and Supervision, a Doctor of Business Administration, Cyber-Physical Systems, or other degrees as required to meet our state’s workforce demand.

Q: What campuses could offer these? 

Any CSU campus is authorized to seek approval by the Board of Trustees to offer a doctoral degree program. Campuses which have expressed interest in independent doctoral degrees include San Diego State University, Sacramento State, Long Beach, Fresno State, Fullerton, San Jose State and East Bay.

Q: Would this impact joint doctoral programs that partner with the UC?

No. The CSU is prohibited from offering doctoral programs with the same focus as those that the UC already offers. In addition, the UC can object to a program proposed by the CSU based on duplication concerns.