I received that same email back in mid January. I applied to PSU because my undergraduate advisor (a PSU MSW/PHD Alumni) spoke very highly of the faculty & said that it's a very liberal and progressive program. I'm also interested in the Peace Corps Masters International option.
Yes, I think from what I've read from past forums people have done that especially with CSULA since they only give you 2 weeks to accept from the moment they send out an acceptance letter.
I did my undergrad at CSUN and live in the area as well. It's also one of my top choices, but it seems tough to get in. You sill have time before April 1, but worse case scenario you accept CSUF by April and withdraw if CSUN accepts you?
I am new to this forum and stumbled upon your post. I'm there with you! I also applied to 5 programs (CSUN, CSULA, CSULB, PSU, & Univ. of Maryland) around mid January. I just received an acceptance letter to CSULA this past weekend. Have you received any news yet?