FAQ's
- How much does it cost?
Nothing. Application to and participation in the Learning Alliance is free.
- Is the Learning Alliance a club or student-run organization?
No, the Learning Alliance is an academic learning community offering paired GE classes, access to resources and guidance to incoming freshmen. It is operated by professional staff and advisors.
- Does my major have to be in the College of Liberal Arts to join?
For Fall 2009, we are accepting applications with priority given to students with majors in the College of Liberal Arts or who are Undeclared. Students with other majors will be admitted on a space-available basis beginning July 15th.
- I already attend CSULB. Can I join the Learning Alliance?
Students may only enter the program as first-time freshmen. You must apply before the beginning of your first semester at CSULB. This also means that students transferring from other colleges and universities are not eligible.
- I am an incoming freshman participating in another program (EOP, Honors, President's Scholars, Student Athletes, etc.). Can I join the Learning Alliance?
It is possible to participate in multiple programs. We work with these offices to ensure that all requirements are met, if possible. In some specific cases, it may be necessary for a student to choose between programs due to a conflict in requirements.
- I am a freshman with Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or Community College credit. Can I still join the program?
Your placement in the Learning Alliance will be contingent on what course credit you have already earned. Please call our office if you have questions about this aspect of the program.
- What if I don't like the Learning Alliance course offerings?
We offer paired classes that fulfill General Education (GE) requirements which must be satisfied for graduation whether or not you are involved in the Learning Alliance. However, learning communities are not necessarily a good fit for everyone. If you do not like the courses that are offered this may not be the program for you.
- Does the program continue beyond my freshman year?
Although the Learning Alliance only requires participation through your first year, you can choose to be involved with us in your sophomore year and beyond. Several optional seminars, which count in your General Education plan, will be available to choose from in the fall of your second year. In spring, you have the opportunity to take the CLA 490 leadership class, which is the route to become a Peer Mentor. Our computer lab and study lounge are available to Learning Alliance students throughout their time at CSULB.
- How are Learning Alliance courses different from other courses at CSULB?
Learning Alliance courses are selected from the existing curriculum at CSULB. Our classes do not have different content or requirements than other sections of the same course. The classes in our program differ in that they are paired, taught by faculty interested in first-year student success, and the pair shares a common theme.
