Major-Specific Criteria

  • Some Cal State LA majors have additional major-specific criteria (MSC) for admission.
  • These criteria support student access and timely graduation.
  • MSC are reviewed every year and may change for future admission cycles.

Majors with Major Specific Criteria (MSC) for Admission

Effective Fall 2026:

  • Criminal Justice (BS)
  • Fire Protection Administration and Technology (BS)
  • Music (BM)
  • Nursing (BS)
  • Psychology (BA)
  • Social Work (BA)
  • Urban Learning - Teacher Preparation (BA)

MSC By Admission Term

Click below to view the Major-Specific Criteria (MSC) for a specific admission term:

How Major-Specific Criteria Are Used In Determining Admission

IMPORTANT: This does not apply to Music BM and Nursing BSN.

Find your applicant type to learn how you will be considered for admission to a major with MSCs:

Applicant TypeAdmission Offered WhenOther Considerations
Local ApplicantsGuaranteed admission when required Major‑Specific Criteria (MSC) are met.Recommended courses are encouraged for timely graduation (but not used in admission decision).
Non‑Local ApplicantsMeet required MSC and admitted only if space is available.Ranked by cumulative GPA and recommended courses.
Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) Recipients

Psychology: ADT required

Other majors: ADT not required but gives priority consideration if completed by admission term's deadline

ADT completed by:

  • Fall admission: by end of the preceding Spring term
  • Spring admission: by end of the preceding Summer term

ADT curriculum replaces required/recommended courses.

Minimum MSC GPA has been adjusted per CSU ADT guidelines.

Non‑local ADT applicants receive a +0.10 GPA bonus in ranking.

Applicants Missing MSCConsidered only if space remains after admitting those who meet all required MSC.

Ranked by number of completed criteria.

Local applicants receive a +0.25 GPA boost.