UNIVERSITY CATALOG: 2023-2024

Student Complaint Procedure (Complaints Regarding the CSU)

The California State University (CSU) takes very seriously complaints and concerns regarding the institution. If you have a complaint regarding the CSU, you may present your complaint as follows:

  1. If your complaint concerns CSU’s compliance with academic program quality and accrediting standards, you may present your complaint on the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) website. WASC is the agency that accredits the CSU’s academic program.
  2. If your complaint concerns an alleged violation by CSU of any law that prohibits discrimination, harassment or retaliation based on a protected status (such as age, disability, gender (or sex), gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity (including color, caste, or ancestry), religion or veteran or military status), you may present your complaint as described in the Nondiscrimination Policy.
  3. If your complaint concerns an alleged violation by the CSU of other state law, including laws prohibiting fraud and false advertising, you may present your claim to the university designee, Dr. William Watkins (william.watkins@csun.edu), Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. See Procedure for Student Complaints (Executive Order 1063) for details regarding the complaint requirements and complaint process.
  4. Other complaints regarding the CSU may be presented to the university dean of students, who will provide guidance on the appropriate university process for addressing your particular issue.

If you believe that your complaint warrants further attention after you have exhausted all the steps outlined by the university, or by WASC, you may file an appeal with the Assistant Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs (or designee) at the CSU Chancellor’s Office.

This procedure should not be construed to limit any right that you may have to take legal action to resolve your complaint.