## Navigating the Online Catalog Once you access the official catalog website, you can locate specific academic information using the built-in navigation tools: * **Select the Academic Year:** The catalog homepage typically defaults to the current academic year. If you need to view requirements for a different year, look for the drop-down menu (usually located at the top of the page or in the sidebar) to select the appropriate catalog. * **Course Search:** Use the search bar within the catalog portal to search by course prefix (such as "MATH" or "ENGL"), course number, or specific keywords. * **Program and Degree Listings:** Browse the academic programs section to view the specific major, minor, credential, or graduate degree requirements. * **Academic Policies:** Review university regulations, grading policies, transfer credit rules, and graduation requirements. ## Accessing Archived Course Catalogs
Students often need to refer to older catalogs to verify the requirements that apply to their specific term of entry. CSUF provides access to archived catalogs online. * **Online Archives:** Recent past catalogs are available directly on the catalog website via the archive selection menu. * **Historical Records:** For older catalogs that may not be fully digitized or listed in the main drop-down menu, students can contact the CSUF Pollak Library or the Office of the Registrar for assistance. ## Understanding Catalog Rights When looking up courses and graduation requirements, it is crucial to understand which catalog year applies to you. This is known as your "catalog rights." Generally, your catalog year is the academic year you first enrolled at CSUF or another California community college or CSU campus, provided you have maintained continuous enrollment.
Following the wrong catalog year can lead to taking unnecessary classes or missing specific graduation requirements. Always confirm your official catalog year with an academic advisor before planning your semester schedule. ## Verifying Your Course Information While the online catalog is the official source of academic information, requirements and course offerings can change. * **Consult an Academic Advisor:** Always verify your course selections and graduation plan with a CSUF academic advisor or department chair. * **Check the Class Schedule:** The course catalog lists all approved courses, but not every course is offered every semester. Use the CSUF student portal (Titan Online) to check the active class schedule for the upcoming term to see which courses are currently available for registration.
