Nondegree-seeking students

An individual who wishes to take graduate courses without formal admission to a degree program is classified as a nondegree-seeking student. There is no limit to the number of credits a nondegree-seeking student may take, as long as the student’s academic performance is credible. In courses where enrollment is limited, first priority is given to students admitted to the program, followed by other VCU graduate degree-seeking students. Nondegree-seeking students are not exempt from any prerequisites that may be specified for a course. A nondegree-seeking student who is later admitted as a degree-seeking student will not be allowed to apply more than six credits earned as a nondegree-seeking student toward a degree.

In order to enroll in graduate courses as a nondegree-seeking student, students must have graduated, or be in final term expecting to graduate, from a regionally accredited college or university or its equivalent. Information and forms certifying eligibility to take graduate courses are available at VCU Records and Registration service centers or from the Graduate School.