Westcliff University

Quick Overview

Day 1 CPT Program

MS Computer Science, MS Information Technology, MS Engineering Management, MBA, TESOL, EdD and DBA

Enrollment Window

October 21 2024/ January 06 2025/ March 03 2025/ May 05 2025/ June 30 2025

Tuition

Annual Tuition : $12,636 - $14,100 (monthly payment and scholarships available)

History and Accreditation

Established in 1993 and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Westcliff University is one of the most reputable and popular Day 1 CPT universities. It offers diverse programs across its College of Business, College of Education, College of Technology & Engineering, and Western State College of Law. Westcliff stands out for its blend of theoretical and practical learning, ensuring graduates are job-market-ready from the first day of study.

Prioritizing convenience and flexibility, Westcliff caters to both international students seeking Day 1 CPT and domestic students aiming for academic excellence. The university's innovative and up-to-date curriculum is designed to promote personal, professional, and academic success, preparing students for real-world challenges. Westcliff University is not just an educational institution; it's a launchpad for future leaders and professionals, offering a transformative experience that equips students for a dynamic global landscape.

Academic Policy

Westcliff University offers three semesters annually for its Day 1 CPT Programs: Fall, Spring, and Summer.
International students are required to enroll in a minimum of two courses per semester, totaling 6 credits, which includes one online and one hybrid course.
First-Hand On-Site Experiences

CPT Policy

CPT Activation Timing: Westcliff University allows students to activate their CPT work authorizations as early as 30 days before start date of each semester (with three semesters per year, totaling six enrollment windows). There is no gap between CPT authorizations.
CPT Application: To apply for CPT, the employer's signature is required on the CPT Agreement, which must be submitted before the CPT application deadline. Click to view the MBA program's CPT Agreement.
- For each semester, a signature from the employer on the evaluation form is necessary to renew CPT.
- If the current employer does not sign the CPT Agreement, an Employment Verification Letter can be used as an alternative (consult your advisor for this).
- The university recommends applying for CPT two weeks before the semester begins.

A strict deadline for CPT applications is enforced; if you miss the deadline, you will not be able to apply for CPT until next semester starts.
Maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above is essential for students. Failure to do so may result in the termination of your CPT.

Onsite Policy

Attendance is mandatory for students; failure to attend onsite courses will result in the loss of F-1 status.
Onsite Attendance for Weekly Format: Students residing within 50 miles of Irvine Campus are required to attend on-site classes weekly. These sessions are scheduled for one weekday from 6:30-8:00 PM.
Onsite Attendance for Professional Format: Students living beyond 50 miles from Irvine Campus need to attend a 3-day on-site session once each semester. These sessions are held over one weekend (Friday: 2pm-9pm; Saturday: 8am-8:30pm; Sunday: 8am-12:30pm).

* Since July 1 2024, the 50-mile rule has been canceled.

Vacation Policy

After every three semesters, students are eligible for a one-semester break (annual break), during which they only need to register for a 1-credit CPT course to continue working.

Tuition and Scholarship

Programs	Cost/Credit	Credits	Total tuition fees (excluding CPT)	Annual average tuition
Master's Programs - Weekly Format	$819	36	$29,484 (24-28 months）	$12,636
Master's Programs - Professional Format	$855	36	$30,780 (24-28 months)	$13,191
Doctoral Program - Weekly Format	$881	60	$52,860(36-48 months)	$13,215
Doctoral Program - Professional Format	$940	60	$56,400(36-48 months)	$14,100

Other Fees:

Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable, one-time; contact us to waive)
CPT Fee: Equivalent to 1 credit cost per semester
Registration Fee: $25 per semester (non-refundable)
Student ID Card: $10
Enrollment Fee: $200
Payment Plan Processing Fee: $50
Late Tuition Fee for New Students: $50 per week
Late Tuition Fee for Continuing Students: $35
Returned Check Fee: $35

* Since May 2 2024, initial F-1 students from India will the benefit of waiving the $50 application fee.

Scholarships:

Distinguished Scholarships: Up to $10,000
- For a select group of students demonstrating excellence, visionary goals, and a commitment to social responsibility.
Giving Opportunities for Achievement and Learning (GOAL): Up to $5,000
- For high-performing students committed to academic excellence in master’s/doctorate programs at Westcliff.
BLEND Scholarships: Up to $2,500
- For outstanding international students aiming to foster inclusivity in their fields of study at Westcliff.
Warrior Scholarships: $2,500
- To assist students facing financial challenges in achieving academic success at Westcliff.

Day 1 CPT Program

Master's programs :
- Requires completion of 36 credits;
- Typically finished in an average of 2.5 years, with the option to extend up to a maximum of 3 years for graduation;
- Can provide up to 3-4 additional opportunities for H1B lottery.

Doctoral programs :
- Requires completion of 60 credits;
- Typically finished in an average of 3 years, with the option to extend up to a maximum of 4 years for graduation;
- Can provide up to 4-5 additional opportunities for H1B lottery.

Master of Business Administration (STEM)

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program aims to provide individuals with the essential skills and knowledge for thriving in management roles. In the initial year, students concentrate on foundational MBA coursework. As the year progresses, they can select a concentration aligning with their interests and career aspirations. The second year involves an in-depth exploration of this chosen concentration through three specialized elective courses pertinent to their field of interest. To graduate, students need to complete 8 core courses (24 credits) and 4 concentration courses (12 credits).

Core Courses (24 credits) :

- ECO 500 Managerial Economics (3 credits)

- FIN 500 Financial & Accounting Skills for Managers (3 credits)

- LDR 500 Organizational Leadership (3 credits)

- MGT 500 Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy (3 credits)

- MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)

- MKT 500 Marketing Management (3 credits)

- ORG 500 Organizational Behavior (3 credits)

Choose 4 courses from one of the 12 concentrations (The concentration marked with “*“ is STEM):

- Digital and Strategic Marketing*

- Strategic and Innovative Leadership

- Financial Management

- Global Business

- Organizational Management

- Entrepreneurship

- Healthcare Administration*

- Data-Driven Decision Making*

- Information Technology Management*

- Information Technology Project Management*

- Hospitality and Tourism Management

- Applied AI in Business*

MS Computer Science (STEM)

The Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program is designed to advance the careers of professionals in the technology sector. It offers a up-to-date curriculum that encourages students to employ design principles, critical and algorithmic thinking, as well as innovation, management, and problem-solving skills in computer science. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

- MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management (3 credits)

- MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 540 Management of Information Security (3 credits)

- MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation (3 credits)

- MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization (3 credits)

Capstone Courses (3 credits):

- CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone (3 Credits)

Choose 4-5 courses from one of the five concentrations (15 credits):

- Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Mobile Game Development

- Data Analytics (DATA)

- Health Informatics (HIT)

- Software Development (DEV)

- Web Development

MS Information Technology (STEM)

The Masters of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program offers a blending of technical skills and management knowledge, crucial for effectively implementing and managing IT security strategies to protect technological assets, infrastructure, and data analytics. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

- MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management (3 credits)

- MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 540 Management of Information Security (3 credits)

- MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation (3 credits)

- MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization (3 credits)

Capstone Courses (3 credits):

- CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone (3 Credits)

Choose 5 courses from one of the five concentrations (15 credits):

- Cloud Computing

- Cybersecurity

- Emerging Technologies (EMT)

- Information Technology (ITM)

- IT Project Management (ITPM)

- Operations Management (OPM)

MS Engineering Management

The Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) program highlights the combination of engineering skills and management knowledge, essential for strategic planning and maintaining a competitive edge. By equipping students with essential skills and knowledge in engineering and management, it enables them to drive innovation, streamline processes, and manage resources effectively, thereby fostering organizational success in the rapidly evolving business world. To graduate, students need to complete 6 core courses (18 credits), 1 capstone course (3 credits), and 5 concentration courses (15 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits):

- MIS 500 Managing Information Systems & Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 510 Information Technology Project Management (3 credits)

- MIS 520 Leading Strategic Change with Technology (3 credits)

- MIS 540 Management of Information Security (3 credits)

- MIS 545 Business Architecture and Organizational Transformation (3 credits)

- MIS 550 Big Data Analytics and Visualization (3 credits)

Capstone Courses (3 credits):

- CAP 690 Masters Applied Capstone (3 Credits)

Choose 5 courses from one the following concentration (15 credits):

- Technology Engineering Management (TEM)

MA TESOL

The Master's in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program aims to train teachers for a variety of roles, both in the United States and abroad. With substantial training in diverse teaching methods, students will gain specialized knowledge and practical skills for teaching English to non-native speakers, preparing them to become proficient and professional educators with notable leadership qualities. To graduate, students need to complete 12 core courses (36 credits).

Core Courses (36 credits):

- TSL 502 Vocabulary Instruction (3 credits)

- TSL 507 Pronunciation Instruction (3 credits)

- TSL 512 Writing Instruction (3 credits)

- TSL 515 Second Language Acquisition (3 credits)

- TSL 520 Grammar Instruction (3 credits)

- TSL 527 Methods of Teaching ESL/EFL (3 credits)

- TSL 532 Listening and Speaking Instruction (3 credit hours)

- TSL 542 The English Language in Society (3 credits)

- TSL 545 Reading Instruction (3 credits)

- TSL 552 Special Topics in TESOL (3 credits)

- TSL 590 Curriculum Design (3 credits)

- CAP 670 Practicum (3 credits)

Doctorate of Business Administration

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is designed for individuals with a Master's degree aiming to deepen their understanding of global business practices. The program focuses on developing advanced decision-making and leadership abilities, and it extensively explores both theoretical and applied research in the business field. To graduate, students need to complete 60 credits.

Year 1 Courses (19.5 credits):

- LDR 700 Leadership and Creative Solutions Implementation (3 credits)

- MGT 700 Managing People and Organizations (3 credits)

- FIN 700 Financial Risk Management (3 credits)

- MKT 700 Marketing Strategy & Consumer Behavior (3 credits)

- RES 700 Business Research Methods I (4.5 credits)

- RES 701 Doctoral Prospectus (3 credits)

Year 2 Courses (19.5 credits):

- Concentration Course I (3 credits)

- Concentration Course II (3 credits)

- ECO 700 Business in a Global Economy (3 credits)

- ORG 700 Corporate Social Responsibility and Organizational Development (3 credits)

- RES 702 Business Research Methods II (4.5 credits)

- RES 703 Doctoral Literature Review (3 credits)

Year 3 Courses (21 credits):

- Concentration Course III (3 credits)

- Concentration Course IV (3 credits)

- DIS 900 Doctoral Dissertation Course I (3 credits)

- DIS 901 Doctoral Dissertation Course II (4.5 credits)

- DIS 902 Doctoral Dissertation Course III (3 credits)

- DIS 903 Doctoral Dissertation Course IV (4.5 credits)

Six Concentrations:

- Strategic Leadership for the 21st Century

- Applied Computer Science (ACS)

- Business Intelligence & Data Analytics (BIDA)

- Cybersecurity

- Information Technology Management

- Web Development & Applications Management

Doctor of Education

The Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction is designed to prepare scholar-practitioners for impactful roles in education, focusing on curriculum development and instructional improvement. This program blends educational theories with leadership strategies, providing a solid basis for educational research, adult and child education, and evidence-based evaluation. It merges original research with practical application, nurturing change-makers who emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusivity in educational practices and policies. To graduate, students need to complete 60 credits.

Core & Research (18 credits):

- EDU 710 Effective Teaching and Learning Strategies (3 credits)

- EDU 711 Educational Leadership in Theory and Practice (3 credits)

- EDU 712 Curriculum Theory and Design (3 credits)

- EDU 714 Online Blended Learning and Teaching Methodologies (3 credits)

- RES 801 Quantitative Research in Education (3 credits)

- RES 802 Qualitative Research in Education (3 credits)

Core, Concentration, & Research (20 credits):

- EDU 715 Classroom Technology Integration (3 credits)

- EDU 716 Managing Human and Fiscal Resources as an Educational Leader (3 credits)

- Concentration: Select One (3 credits)

- RES 803 Identifying and Planning a Research Project (4 credits)

- RES 804 Educational Research Literature Review(4 credits)

Concentration & Dissertation (22 credits):

- Continue Concentration Selection (6 credits)

- EDU 900 Dissertation Course I (4 credits)

- EDU 901 Dissertation Course II/Preliminary Defense (4 credits)

- EDU 902 Dissertation Course III (4 credits)

- EDU 903 Dissertation Course IV (4 credits)

Two Concentrations:

- Leadership (12 credits)

- Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (12 credits)

Enrollment Window

	Semester Start Date	Application Deadline	CPT Start Date
2024 Fall 1	September 03/2024	July 22/2024	1 month before the semester starts
2024 Fall 2	October 21/2024	September 17/2024	1 month before the semester starts
2025 Spring 3	January 06/2025	December 09/2024	1 month before the semester starts
2025 Spring 4	March 03/2025	January 23/2025	1 month before the semester starts
2025 Summer 1	May 05/2025	April 07/2025	1 month before the semester starts
2025 Summer 2	June 30/2025	June 02/2025	1 month before the semester starts

If you miss this deadline, please contact us. As the official recruitment agent of Westcliff University, we can assist in expediting your application process

Westcliff University has made the following commitments to students:

All transfer students are guaranteed to receive an offer within two weeks after submitting a complete application.
All transfer students are exempt from the Admission Interview, which is replaced by an Advisory Session after acceptance.

* For Initial F1 Students: Applications should be submitted 3 months prior to the term's start date.

Application Guide

How to apply and waive the application fee?

1. Start the Application: Fill out the form below to receive application instruction and visa advice.

If you have an active SEVIS and are currently on OPT/STEM OPT extension, choose 'F-1 Transfer On-campus.'
If you are an initial F-1 student, select 'F-1 Initial On-campus.'
There is an application Fee of $50 (contact us to waive this fee). Even if you are an initial F-1 student applying outside of the U.S., we will also reimburse your application fee.

2. Online Interview: Contact us for more details about the interview process.

All transfer students applying through us are exempt from the Admission Interview.

3. Submit Application Documents:

Academic Transcripts: official transcripts from all educational institutions you have attended, with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Diploma: highest degree diplomas.
Resume: current personal resume.
Foreign Transcript Evaluation: provide a foreign transcript evaluation (if applicable).
English proficiency test: can be waived if you hold a U.S. degree.
- TOEFL: 79 or above
- IELTS: 6.0 or above
- Duolingo: 105 or above
Financial Documentation: a bank statement within the past three months.
- Master's program: $36,501
- Doctoral program: $39,911
Immigration Documentation:
- Copy of Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Current I-94
- F-1 Visa (if applicable)
- Current I-20 (if applicable)
- I-797 Notice (if applicable)
- EAD Card (if applicable)

The processing of application typically takes 2 weeks; contact us in urgent cases for expedited processing, which can reduce the processing time to 1-3 days.

4. SEVIS Transfer (for OPT students): After receiving your admission letter, reach out to us to coordinate the SEVIS transfer timing and complete the necessary form to transfer SEVIS to Westcliff University.