Concentrations (Undergraduate)
A concentration is intended to be a coherent and specialized course of study within a student's major degree program, which presupposes knowledge of the major discipline. A concentration is a carefully chosen and formally recognized course of study with requirements stated in the catalog. Faculty have a commitment to deliver approved curriculum as stated. When advising individual students, reasonable attempt to follow the approved curriculum should be made before substitutions are considered. Concentrations are noted on the student’s transcript, but not shown on the diploma. [AS-745-12]
The criteria for approval of a proposed or edited concentration shall be the following:
- A concentration is a block of designated courses from one or more lists of designated courses or course areas, totaling at least 12 units.
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No single course should appear in every concentration of a given major; such courses should be included in the major.
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The courses for a concentration shall appear in the major course column of the curriculum.
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The number of concentration units must be less than 50% of the total major, support, and concentration units. [AS-953-22]
Sources:
Academic Senate Resolution: AS-953-22 "Resolution on Undergraduate Concentrations and Semesters" (PDF). Approved 9 February 2023.
Academic Senate Resolution: AS-745-12 "Resolution on Concentration Definition" (PDF). Approved 4 April 2012.
Reference:
CSU Policy: EO 1071 "Delegation of Authority to Approve Options, Concentrations, Special Emphases (and Similar Subprograms) and Minors". Reviewed 16 January 2024; supersedes EO 602.
Updated 7/23/2026