Definition of non-degree graduate students

Students interested in taking graduate-level coursework but not pursuing a credential are normally considered non-degree students. A maximum of three graduate courses may normally be taken under this category. Please visit the Academic Calendar for more information on regulations.

Applying as a non-degree student

Non-degree students are normally those who wish to improve their academic background or try a graduate level course to determine if they are interested in applying at a future date to a graduate program. While coursework completed as a non-degree student may subsequently be transferred as credit to meet degree requirements if a non-degree student is later admitted to a UNBC graduate program, this is not guaranteed.

Tuition and student fees for non-degree students

Non-degree students must pay tuition for each course taken, as well as miscellaneous student fees applicable to each semester. Tuition paid for non-degree coursework is not subsequently credited towards the cost of a degree if a non-degree student is admitted to a program at UNBC.

Academic Calendar: Tuition Fees

Finance Department: Tuition Fees

Application deadlines

The application deadlines for non-degree applications are:

• For Fall semester courses (September start): August 15
• For Winter semester courses (January start): November 15
• For Spring/Summer semester courses (May start): April 15
• For Spring/Summer semester courses (June/July start): At least one week prior to the course start date.

Submitting an application

Apply to UNBC via the EducationPlannerBC online application system and complete the following:

1. Scan and upload unofficial transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended; or provide proof of having a Master's degree by uploading a scanned copy of the degree parchment.
2. Scan and upload a UNBC Graduate Registration Form with course information completed. You will enter all courses on one registration form if taking more than one course.
3. Scan and upload an email from the course instructor(s) and program Chair(s) stating that they are supportive of you taking the course(s).
   • You must have the support of both the course instructor(s) and program Chair(s) to enrol as a non-degree student. To find instructor or Chair information (including contact email), visit our course schedule and list of program Chairs. We recommend you seek approval from the instructor(s) first and, once obtained, forward that email approval to the appropriate program Chair(s) with your request.
4. Once you have a reply back, save a copy of the emails and upload them with your application. You will not be able to submit your application without this information.
   • Please note: Each program/discipline has their own program Chair and you may require multiple approvals. For example, if you are taking a graduate level English and History course, you will need the instructor approval for each as well as the approval of the English and History department Chairs.
   • If you are taking more than one course and have separate approvals, you can upload each individually.
   • Letters of reference are not required.
5. Pay the application fee.

Other visiting/non-degree types

Applicants who wish to take graduate level courses without being in a graduate program may also do so under one of the following admission categories:

• Visiting graduate student
• Exchange graduate student
• Visiting graduate student

Includes:

• Western Deans Agreement (WDA)
• Canadian University Graduate Transfer Agreement (GUGTA)
• CAGS Canadian Student Research Mobility Agreement (CSRMA)

Exchange graduate student

• Includes formal exchange students.

Graduate student admissions

For further information, please refer to the Graduate Academic Calendar: Section 1.5.3 Non-Degree Students.