Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication

The Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication at California State University offers students a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop their skills in strategic communication within corporate and nonprofit sectors. This program equips students with an understanding of effective communication strategies, message development, and media utilization pertinent to today’s dynamic business environment. Students will explore core topics such as organizational communication, public relations, marketing communication, stakeholder engagement, and digital media strategies, enabling them to craft compelling messages that resonate with diverse audiences. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills through case studies, projects, and internships, preparing students for leadership roles in organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofit agencies. By focusing on both business and nonprofit contexts, students gain versatility and a broad perspective on communication challenges and opportunities in various organizational settings. The program also highlights ethical considerations in communication, cultural awareness, and the importance of transparency and accountability. Faculty members bring real-world experience, offering mentorship and insights into current industry trends. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue careers as communication specialists, public relations managers, marketing coordinators, nonprofit program managers, or corporate communication directors. The emphasis fosters critical thinking, creativity, and effective interpersonal skills, which are essential for success in the competitive and rapidly evolving landscape of organizational communication. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the program prepares students to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and communities, promoting organizational effectiveness and public trust. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, professional development workshops, and networking events to enhance their career readiness and professional growth. Overall, the Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication provides a robust foundation for students aiming to become influential communicators who can advocate, educate, and lead in various organizational contexts.

MGT 307 Management of Organizations (3)
MGT 310 Management of International Business (3)
MGT 325 Entrepreneurial Management (3)
MGT 326 Scientific & Professional Ethics (3)
MGT 421 Human Resource Management (3) (Prereq. MGT 307)
MKT 310 Principles of Marketing (3)
MKT 410 International Marketing Management (3) (Prereq. MKT 310)
ECON 329 Managerial Economics (3) (Prereq. ECON 110, 111 & MATH 140 or 150)
ECON 340 Business & Economics in American Literature (3) (C2, D, Interdisciplinary) 
ECON 370 World Economy(3) (Prereq. ECON 110 or ECON 300)
ECON 471 International Trade (3) (Prereq. ECON 310 or ECON 329)
ENGL 483 Technical Visual Communication (3)
PSY 432 Seminar in Leadership (3) (D, E, Interdisciplinary)
POLS 320 Public Administration (3)

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financing for the Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication program at California State University is primarily structured through a combination of federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and institutional funding options. The university offers a range of financial assistance opportunities designed to support students in obtaining a quality education while managing their economic circumstances. Federal student aid, including Pell Grants, federal work-study programs, and federal student loans, constitutes a significant portion of the funding available to eligible students enrolled in this program. To access these funds, students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which assesses their financial need and determines their eligibility. State-funded grants and scholarships are also available for California residents, providing additional financial support.

California State University manages several scholarship programs aimed at undergraduate students, which often consider academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need during the selection process. Specific scholarships targeted towards students in communication-related fields, including Business and Nonprofit Communication, may be available, though these are subject to annual funding and eligibility criteria. Institutional funding options include payment plans that allow students to spread tuition costs over multiple installments, reducing the immediate financial burden. Additionally, many students choose to finance their education through part-time employment, either on-campus or off-campus, which can offset educational expenses while gaining relevant work experience.

Graduate assistantships and part-time teaching opportunities sometimes provide stipends or tuition waivers for students enrolled in advanced segments of the program, although availability varies year by year. Private loans are also an option for students who need additional funding beyond what federal and state aid can provide; however, students are encouraged to exhaust all federal and institutional sources first due to generally lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms.

The university also offers financial literacy resources and counseling services to help students plan their budgets, understand loan obligations, and make informed financial decisions throughout their studies. It is advisable for prospective students to consult the university’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Services for specific guidance tailored to their individual circumstances and to stay updated on any changes in funding opportunities or eligibility requirements.

The Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication at California State University provides students with specialized training tailored to the dynamic fields of business and nonprofit sectors. This focus area equips students with the essential skills required for effective written, oral, and digital communication, which are crucial in today’s competitive and rapidly changing environments. Throughout the program, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop their abilities to craft compelling messages, tailor communication strategies to diverse audiences, and utilize various media platforms efficiently. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the communication challenges faced by organizations across industries.

The program covers key areas such as strategic communication planning, public relations, organizational communication, content creation, and crisis communication. Special attention is given to the ethical considerations in communication practices, emphasizing integrity and social responsibility. Coursework often includes case studies, project-based assignments, and internships that offer real-world experience to reinforce learning outcomes. Students learn to analyze organizational communication needs, develop effective messaging campaigns, and evaluate the impact of their communication efforts.

Students enrolled in this emphasis will also gain proficiency in digital communication tools, including social media management, web content development, and multimedia storytelling. This comprehensive skill set prepares graduates for careers in corporate communication departments, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, marketing firms, and media outlets. The program aims to foster critical thinking, creativity, and leadership capabilities, encouraging students to become innovative communicators who can adapt to evolving technological landscapes. Overall, the Emphasis in Business and Nonprofit Communication prepares students to effectively bridge organizational goals with audience needs, making substantial contributions to their future workplaces.