California State University-Northridge

What is the cost of studying for a year at California State University-Northridge?

The cost of tuition and fees for full-time in-state undergraduate students at California State University-Northridge is relatively low compared to national averages, with tuition at $5,742 and additional fees totaling $1,353. This places the university's tuition and fees in the bottom 15% and around the median percentile nationally, respectively. For full-time out-of-state undergraduates, tuition rises to $17,622 while fees remain the same at $1,353, still positioning the tuition in the lower quartiles among comparable institutions.

Graduate students paying in-state tuition are charged $7,176 for tuition and $1,353 for fees, indicating a similar pattern of affordability within graduate programs. Out-of-state graduate students face higher tuition costs at $16,680 plus the same fees, though these charges still remain modest compared to many other institutions.

The expense for room and board is notably high at California State University-Northridge, with an annual estimated cost of $21,350, ranking in the top 5% nationally. This component significantly raises the overall cost of attendance despite the institution's relatively low tuition rates.

When compared to the average total annual costs for studying in the United States, in-state students at a four-year public college pay around $25,707, while out-of-state students pay an average of $44,014. California State University-Northridge's combined tuition, fees, and room and board expenses bring the total closer to or above these national averages, primarily driven by the high housing costs.

Books and supplies also contribute to the overall expenses, with an average yearly charge of $1,338, which is somewhat higher than the median range nationally.

What are the work-study opportunities at California State University-Northridge?

California State University-Northridge offers various work-study opportunities designed to support students financially while providing valuable professional experience. Eligible students can pursue on-campus employment that typically complements their academic schedules. These positions often involve roles within university departments, libraries, laboratories, and administrative offices, enabling students to build skills relevant to their fields of study.

The university's work-study program aims to balance academic commitments with part-time work, generally offering flexible hours to accommodate class timetables. Participating students can expect to earn wages aligned with California's minimum wage standards, with average pay rates ranging moderately depending on the job complexity and department.

In addition to traditional work-study roles, California State University-Northridge provides internship opportunities that sometimes qualify for work-study funding. These internships offer practical, hands-on experience and may be connected to academic programs, enhancing students' career readiness upon graduation.

International students who qualify for financial aid may also be eligible to participate in the university's work-study program. This inclusion helps ensure a broader range of students can benefit from on-campus employment, although they must conform to the specific eligibility criteria associated with federal and institutional guidelines.