CSUSB’s CAPE Blended Programs Accelerate Your Path to a Master’s Degree
What Is a CAPE Blended Program?
Coyote Accelerated Post-Baccalaureate Education (CAPE) is CSUSB’s combined bachelor’s-to-master’s degree pathway. It lets well-qualified undergraduates begin graduate-level coursework early and apply up to 12 units of that coursework toward both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees — reaching a master’s degree faster than completing the two degrees separately.
In today’s competitive job market, a bachelor’s degree alone is often not enough. Graduates with a master’s degree typically earn higher salaries and advance more quickly in their careers — though whether graduate school is the right next step always depends on your individual academic and career goals.
Why Choose a CAPE Blended Program?
- Save time: apply up to 12 units of graduate coursework toward both degrees, reducing the total time needed to earn your master’s.
- Pay undergraduate rates longer: while you’re still an undergraduate, the shared units are billed at undergraduate tuition and fees rather than graduate rates.
- Seamless progression: move from your bachelor’s into your master’s program without a break, once nominated and approved by your program.
- Build momentum early: start graduate-level coursework, faculty mentorship, and professional connections in your field while still completing your bachelor’s degree.
How CAPE Works
Because the same units count toward both degrees, students completing a CAPE Blended Program must complete a minimum of 138 total units to earn both the bachelor’s and master’s degree (compared to 120 units for a bachelor’s degree and a separate 30+ units for most master’s degrees completed independently).
CAPE Blended Programs pair an existing CSUSB bachelor’s and master’s degree in the same support mode (state-supported or self-support). Each pairing has its own eligibility criteria, set by the department — see the list of current programs below.
Eligibility
Because each CAPE Blended Program is run by its own department, eligibility requirements (minimum GPA, required courses, standing, and how students are identified) vary by program. In general, though, students should expect the following:
- Good academic standing, with a cumulative GPA that meets or exceeds the receiving graduate program’s minimum (commonly 2.75–3.0, depending on the program).
- Junior standing or equivalent progress toward the bachelor’s degree, often with specific prerequisite courses completed.
- Nomination or invitation by the program’s faculty advisor, typically during the third year of undergraduate study.
- Not be in your final (baccalaureate completion) semester at the time of entry into the blended program.
See the specific eligibility requirements for each program in the “Available CAPE Blended Programs” section below, and reach out to the program’s graduate coordinator with questions.
How to Get Started
Because CAPE Blended Programs are nomination-based, the process starts with a conversation, not an application form:
1. Talk to your advisor and the program coordinator. If you’re interested in a CAPE Blended Program, let your undergraduate advisor know and reach out to the graduate coordinator for the program that interests you (see contacts below). They can confirm whether you’re on track to meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
2. Your program nominates you. Once you’re eligible, the program’s Blended Program Faculty Advisor submits a CAPE Blended Program Undergraduate Entry Form to Graduate Admissions (gradadmissions@csusb.edu) on your behalf.
3. You transition to graduate status. As you approach 120 blended-applicable units, your Faculty Graduate Advisor submits a CAPE Blended Program Graduate Form to move you into graduate status. Submission deadlines are March 1 for a Fall transition and October 1 for a Spring transition.
4. You complete both degrees. You’ll complete a minimum of 138 total units across both degrees, with separate degree requirements tracked for your bachelor’s and master’s.
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
While you’re completing shared units as an undergraduate, you continue to pay undergraduate tuition and fees. After you transition to graduate status, standard graduate tuition and fees apply. Because financial aid eligibility and award amounts differ between undergraduate and graduate levels, we recommend meeting with the Financial Aid & Scholarships Office before starting a CAPE Blended Program to understand how your aid may change as you progress.
Completing Both Degrees
Students in a CAPE Blended Program earn two separate degrees — a bachelor’s and a master’s — each with its own degree requirements. Plan to file a separate graduation application for each degree, by the applicable undergraduate and graduate deadlines.
Available CAPE Blended Programs
CSUSB currently offers the following CAPE Blended Programs. More programs are added as departments develop them — check back, or contact Graduate Studies to ask about a program not listed here.
Program Description
The Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) prepares students for a wide range of employment opportunities in public accounting, industry, finance, government and nonprofit organizations, and higher education. The program is designed to prepare graduates who 1) possess knowledge and skills in professional accounting, 2) can successfully pursue professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CMA, etc.), 3) can become leaders who exhibit high standards of professional ethical conduct, and 4) are interested in pursuing doctoral and research studies.
The B.A. in Accountancy (accounting concentration) + M.S. in Accountancy CAPE Blended Program provides CSUSB accounting students with an accelerated route to a graduate degree. The option allows students to apply nine units of graduate-level work toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees and provides a seamless process whereby students can progress from undergraduate to graduate status.
Program Coordinator
Dr. Taewon Yang
Phone: 909-537-5704
Email: taewon@csusb.edu
Location: JB 459C
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
This accelerated pathway allows eligible CSUSB undergraduates to begin MSA coursework in their senior year, reducing time to degree completion. In addition to the university requirements, invitations are based on:
- Academic Standing: Must be a CSUSB undergraduate with junior standing or higher.
- Residency Units: Complete at least 12 upper-division units in residence at CSUSB.
- Coursework: Complete ACCT 3720 and ACCT 5260 (ACCT 4260) with a GPA of 2.75 or higher across these two courses or instructor's recommendation;
- Graduation Timeline: Not in the semester of baccalaureate degree completion.
- Overall GPA: Minimum CSUSB GPA of 2.75, or by the MSA Director’s or department chair’s consent.
Graduate assistantships may be available for qualified students on a competitive basis. Contact the graduate program for more information.
Program Description:
The Master of Science in Financial Analytics (MSFA) program provides post-baccalaureate students pursuing a career in the financial industry with a high quality education in the field of investment. This rigorous program educates students to become experts in investment analysis and portfolio management and prepares them for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) examination. The MSFA program is open to all qualified students regardless of undergraduate major.
The B.A. in Administration (accounting concentration) + M.S. in Financial Analytics CAPE blended program is a variant of the regular MSFA program. It provides CSUSB undergraduate students in business administration with a concentration in finance with a route to a graduate degree in financial analysis. Students may apply 9 units of coursework from the undergraduate finance concentration to the graduate degree, accelerating their path to completion.
Admission to the CAPE blended program is by invitation from the Department of Accounting and Finance.
Program Coordinator
Dr. Taewon Yang
Phone: 909-537-5704
Email: taewon@csusb.edu
Location: JB 459C
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility:
The MSFA CAPE Blended Program allows eligible CSUSB undergraduates to begin MSFA coursework in their senior year, reducing the time to degree completion. In addition to the university requirements, invitations are based on:
- Academic Standing: Must be a CSUSB undergraduate with junior standing or higher.
- Residency Units: Completed at least 12 upper-division units in residence at CSUSB.
- Coursework: Completed FIN 3001 and FIN 3002 with a GPA of 2.75 or higher across these two courses or instructor's recommendation.
- Graduation Timeline: Not in the semester of baccalaureate degree completion.
- Overall GPA: Minimum CSUSB GPA of 2.75, or by the MSFA Director’s or department chair’s consent.
Graduate assistantships may be available for qualified students on a competitive basis.
Program Description
The Master of Science (MS) in Human Resource Management (HRM) program offers students a comprehensive graduate education that prepares them for careers in human resources.
The 30-unit program will provide coursework and experiential learning activities and expose students to the foundational concepts of human resource management, including managing human capital, strategic human resources, compensation, employee relations, employment law, training and development, and workplace planning. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the SHRM certification exam.
Students enrolled in the BA in Administration, Human Resource Management Concentration + MS in Human Resource Management CAPE Blended Program can count up to 12 graduate-level units (4 classes) taken as part of the undergraduate program toward the MS in Human Resource Management, accelerating their path to a graduate degree.
Program Coordinator
Dr. Craig Seal
Phone: 909-537-5735
Email: cseal@csusb.edu
Location: JB-461
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Eligible students are invited to apply during the third year of their undergraduate program. Contact the graduate program coordinator for information on eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Program Description:
The Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) prepares students for leadership positions in cyber security, and business intelligence and information systems technology. Successful graduates will learn to identify and solve business problems, manage organizational risk, secure and manage computer network systems, ensure business continuity, design and implement data warehouses, and use business intelligence tools to collect, integrate, analyze, and mine big data for the purpose of supporting managerial decision making at all control levels: front-line, managerial, and strategic.
The B.A. in Administration (IST concentration) + M.S. in Information Systems & Technology (MSIST) CAPE blended program is a variant of the regular MSIST program. The blended program provides an accelerated pathway to the graduate degree by allowing undergraduate students in the CAPE program to apply 9 units of coursework to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students take the 9 units during the junior/senior years, reducing the combined unit total for both degrees and enabling a seamless progression from undergraduate to graduate status. Admission to the MSIST CAPE Blended Program is by invitation from the School of Cyber & Decision Sciences.
Program Coordinators
Erin Yela
Phone: 909-537-3342
Email: eyela@csusb.edu
Location: JB 134C
Lisa Nazario
Phone: 909-537-3400
Email: Lisa.Pena@csusb.edu
Location: JB 460
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Admission to the MSIST CAPE Blended Option is by invitation from the School of Cyber & Decision Sciences. Contact the graduate program coordinator for eligibility requirements and application process.
Program Description
The Master of Arts in Art offers courses that embrace the multiplicity of artistic expression enhanced with graduate-level critical art history and exploration of global cultures. Designed to engage artists from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, our graduate student community encourages intense experimentation with the freedom to work in any medium or range of materials and approaches. The M.A. in Art program prepares successful graduates for a professional career in the visual arts and provides a basis for further graduate study in the field.
The Art B.A. + Art M.A. CAPE blended program applies graduate-level units taken as an undergraduate to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. You’ll earn your master’s degree in less time and transition seamlessly into your graduate program.
Program Coordinator
Alison Ragguette
Phone: 909-537-3372
Email: Alison.Ragguette@csusb.edu
Location: VA 210
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
CAPE Scholars must meet the program’s eligibility requirements and pursue a concentration in Art Education. Eligible students are typically contacted in the beginning of their junior year. Contact the graduate program for details.
Program Description
The interdisciplinary Master of Science in Materials Science program is offered jointly by the Departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Physics & Astronomy. The program is partnered with our Center for Advanced Functional Materials, and employs state-of-the-art scientific equipment across both participating departments as well as the College of Natural Sciences.
The B.S. in Chemistry (chemistry concentration) + M.S. in Materials Science (interdisciplinary materials investigation concentration) CAPE blended program provides an accelerated pathway to the completion of the graduate degree by allowing undergraduate students to take 11 units of graduate level coursework while in undergraduate status. These graduate level units will count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Kimberley Cousins
Phone: 909-537-5391
Email: kcousins@csusb.edu
Location: CS 213
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Admission to the B.S. in Chemistry + M.S. in Materials Science is open to CSUSB students who have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 and an average GPA of 2.5 in undergraduate coursework in Chemistry completed at the time of the application. Admission must be approved by the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry following the CAPE Scholars Program policies and procedures.
Program Description
The B.A. in English + M.A. in English and Writing Studies CAPE blended program provides undergraduate students with an accelerated path toward a graduate degree in English by allowing undergraduate students to take 4 graduate level courses (12 units) while in undergraduate status. These 12 graduate level units can count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Coyote Accelerated Post-Baccalaureate Education (CAPE) scholars thus have the added benefits of 1) reducing the number of semesters required to earn a master’s degree, 2) paying undergraduate fees for some graduate-level courses, and 3) a seamless application process when joining the graduate program.
Students in the B.A. in English + M.A. in English and Writing Studies program may choose from the following three concentrations for the BA and MA:
- BA in English – Linguistics Concentration + MA in English & Writing Studies – Applied Linguistics and TESL Concentration
- BA in English – Literature Concentration + MA in English & Writing Studies – Literature Concentration
- BA in English – Rhetoric & Writing Studies Concentration + MA in English & Writing Studies – Composition and Rhetoric Concentration
Program Coordinator
Dr. Erin Hall
Phone: (909) 537-5896
Email: Erin.Hall@csusb.edu
Location: UH 301.23
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Admission to the B.A. in English + M.A. in English and Writing Studies is open only to students who have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or an average GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate coursework in English completed at the time of the application. Students who have a lower GPA than 3.0 may still apply and will be evaluated based on the strength of their other supporting materials. Admission must be approved by the Department of English following the C.A.P.E Scholars Program policies and procedures (Coyote Accelerated Postbaccalaureate Education). Furthermore, students who do not maintain a 3.0 GPA upon completion of the B.A. in English will not be permitted to move to graduate status and will graduate with the B.A.
Eligible students will receive an email invitation to apply when they have reached junior year academic standing with at least 60 units completed. Contact the English department for more information on how to apply to the CAPE blended program.
Program Description
The Master of Science in Geology is designed to provide strong preparation in geological sciences, focused directly on geological study and research. This program is intended for students who wish to pursue graduate-level work as a prelude for doctoral studies, or as professional preparation for careers in geological fields. The culminating experience in the M.S. in Geology is a research thesis and defense of the thesis. Students will be encouraged to publish their work in a peer-reviewed journal.
The B.S. in Geology + M.S. in Geology CAPE blended program provides an accelerated pathway to the graduate degree by allowing undergraduate students to take 7-8 units of graduate level coursework while in undergraduate status. These graduate level units will count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
Program Coordinator
Dr. Andreas Beyersdorf
Phone: 909-537-5325
Email: andreas.beyersdorf@csusb.edu
Location: CS 310
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Admission to the B.S. in Geology + M.S. in Geology blended program is open to undergraduate students who have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or an average GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate coursework in Geological Sciences at the time of the application. Students who have a lower GPA than 3.0 may still apply and will be evaluated based on the strength of their other supporting materials. Students who do not maintain a 3.0 GPA upon completion of the bachelor’s degree in Geological Sciences will not be permitted to move to graduate status and will graduate with the B.S. Admission must be approved by the Department of Geological Sciences following the C.A.P.E Scholars Program policies and procedures.
Program Description:
The Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) prepares students for leadership positions in cyber security, and business intelligence and information systems technology. Successful graduates will learn to identify and solve business problems, manage organizational risk, secure and manage computer network systems, ensure business continuity, design and implement data warehouses, and use business intelligence tools to collect, integrate, analyze, and mine big data for the purpose of supporting managerial decision making at all control levels - front-line, managerial, and strategic.
The B.S. in Information Systems & Technology + M.S. in Information Systems & Technology (MSIST) CAPE blended program is a variant of the regular MSIST program. It provides CSUSB students completing Bachelor of Science in Information Systems & Technology with an accelerated route to the graduate degree by applying 9 units of coursework to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students take the 9 units during the junior/senior years, reducing the combined unit total for both degrees and enabling seamless progression from undergraduate to graduate status. Admission to the MSIST CAPE blended program is by invitation from the School of Cyber & Decision Sciences.
Program Coordinators
Erin Yela
Phone: 909-537-3342
Email: eyela@csusb.edu
Location: JB 134C
Lisa Nazario
Phone: 909-537-3400
Email: Lisa.Pena@csusb.edu
Location: JB 460
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility
Admission to the MSIST CAPE Blended Option is by invitation from the School of Cyber & Decision Sciences. Contact the graduate program coordinator for eligibility requirements and application process.
Program Description:
The Master of Arts in Spanish program at CSUSB provides intensive study of Spanish and Spanish American literature and civilization, as well as Spanish linguistics. Our program is designed for those students seeking to enhance their teaching skills at the secondary or community college level, as well as those who wish to continue their studies and pursue a Ph.D. The program is also appropriate for those in positions that serve the Latino community or require knowledge of Spanish at an advanced level.
The B.A. in Spanish + M.A. in Spanish CAPE blended program is a possible pathway for students who wish to complete both degrees. The blended program provides an accelerated pathway to the graduate degree by allowing undergraduate students to take 4 graduate level courses (12 units) while in undergraduate status. These 12 graduate level units can count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Bibiana Diaz-Rodriguez
Phone: 909-537-3670
Email: bidiaz@csusb.edu
Location: UH 201.29
Department Page | Bulletin Page
Eligibility:
Admission to the B.A. in Spanish + M.A. in Spanish CAPE program is open to undergraduate students in the Hispanic Language, Literature and Civilization Concentration. Students must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or an average GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate coursework in Spanish completed at the time of the application. Students who have a lower GPA than 3.0 may still apply and will be evaluated based on the strength of their other supporting materials. Admission must be approved by the Department of World Languages and Literatures following the CAPE Scholars Program policies and procedures (Coyote Accelerated Postbaccalaureate Education). Furthermore, students who do not maintain a 3.0 GPA upon completion of the B.A. in Spanish will not be permitted to move to graduate status and will graduate with the B.A.