Community Based Projects are those endeavors that are not based within the structure of university curriculum. These projects typically evolve directly from the community and RUAP assists in facilitating the development of the project using strategies such as community artists, visiting artists in residence, students, faculty, and other community based organizations. Classes may become involved in an aspect of a project but do not define the structures and outcomes in the same way as a class based project.

   Class Based Projects are those endeavors that work within the structure of an approved university curriculum. These projects always involve faculty and students and are guided by the course learning outcomes, syllabi, and the timeline of semesters. Class based projects may additionally incorporate CSUMB's service learning objectives if the class is a designated service learning course. RUAP class based projects typically pair a class with a community partner organization integrating classroom and community environments. The project products and outcomes develop out of course requirements and a unique community or community partner interest. Project development is collaborative between community partner organizations and the class.