CCE Student FAQs

FAQ Pod

How do I register?

Visit our Registration and Enrollment page for more information about how to register in academic credit and non-credit classes.

Full payment of tuition and fees, along with supplying accurate registration information, completes the registration process.

Due to enrollment limitations, it is in your best interest to register at least seven (7) days in advance of the first class meeting. Call 916-278-4433 (non-credit & CEUs), or 916-278-6984 (academic credit) to verify space availability if you are not able to register in advance.

If minimum enrollment levels are not reached, a course may be cancelled prior to the first class meeting. If cancelled, every effort will be made to notify registered participants by phone or mail and a refund will be processed.

What are the fees?

Fees for non-credit and academic courses vary and are listed on individual program webpages. The College of Continuing Education is self-supporting and receives no public funding or income from sources other than the fees charged for services. Enrollment fees are established by the CSU Board of Trustees.

If you are unable to attend a course and want a refund, you must notify the College of Continuing Education 24 hours before the first class meeting and complete the CCE Refund Application.

Who teaches the courses?

Courses are taught by highly qualified instructors. They are either Sacramento State faculty or highly qualified professionals working in the field.

Is financial aid available?

Financial Aid may be available for students pursuing a first bachelor’s or master’s degree. Learn more from our Financial Aid page.

For additional information on financial assistance, visit these websites:

How do you accommodate students with disabilities?

Visit the Students with Disabilities page for more information about our policies.

Who can enroll in Continuing Education classes?

Anyone can enroll! Formal admission to the university is not required for non-credit programs. You have the opportunity to expand your knowledge in a relaxed atmosphere. Please note, however, that enrollment does not constitute formal admission to the university.

If you are interested in formal admission to Sacramento State, contact Admissions & Records at 916-278-3901.

Where are the classes held?

Courses can be held in Napa Hall or other locations on the Sacramento State campus. Some courses meet off-campus at specialized sites, or entirely online. We also offer a variety of in-house programs at various companies and government agencies.

What are non-credit courses?

There are many Continuing Education classes that are classified as “non-credit.” Often offered as seminars and workshops, these courses are geared specifically to the special interests of the community. No academic credits or CEUs are awarded.

What are Continuing Education Units (CEUs)?

The CEU is a nationally recognized unit of measurement of non-credit, post-secondary-level study. It has been established by the International Association of Continuing Education and Training (IACET). You may earn CEUs for study in selected non-credit programs and courses. CEUs are designed for use where employers, re-licensure agencies and other authorities require a specified number of hours of study on a regular basis for career advancement purposes. You can earn one CEU for every 10 contact hours of participation or portion thereof, e.g., eight continuing education hours equals 0.8 CEUs. Grading for CEU courses is on a credit/no-credit basis.

What are certificate programs?

Certificate programs are groups of classes designed to help you gain career expertise, enhance your resume or update your skills. Each program varies, but generally you can earn a certificate within one year. Course schedules are designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Anyone who meets the prerequisite requirements may enroll in individual courses in a certificate program.

Do I have to apply to the certificate program to take a class?

No. Anyone who has fulfilled the prerequisites for a given class may take that class individually, without officially applying to a certificate program.

How long does it take to complete a certificate program?

Certificate programs vary in length, but most can be completed within six months to a year. However, as you are free to take classes when they are compatible with your schedule, the pursuit could extend beyond one year.

Will I receive an actual certificate?

Yes, a Certificate of Participation is awarded for CEU-based certificate programs. A Certificate of Academic Achievement is awarded for academic credit certificate programs. Prior to completing the last course in your certificate program, you will need to submit a Certificate of Participation Form. Complete this form and return it to the College of Continuing Education. After CCE has verified completion of all required courses, a certificate with your name and date of completion will be sent to you along with an official transcript. An official notification letter of program completion will be sent to an identified employer, supervisor, personnel manager or association, if requested.