How Non-Degree Coursework Works
Non-degree coursework at University of Western States gives you a flexible way to explore graduate-level learning through select courses in the College of Graduate Studies, allowing you to build new skills without committing to a full degree program.
Enrolling as a non-degree student does not guarantee future admission to a degree program, although eligible coursework may later be applied toward a degree if you are admitted. Students may transfer up to 16 non-degree credits earned at UWS with a grade of B or higher to a full degree program, pending approval.
For full details, please refer to Policy 1214 Non-Degree Seeking Students.
Please contact the admissions team before applying to UWS' non-degree coursework.
Prerequisite Entrance Requirements
To enroll in non-degree coursework, you must meet the general academic admissions requirements for the College of Graduate Studies:
- A bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
- International applicants must hold the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree, unless they hold a first-professional degree (e.g., DC, ND, MD).
- Applicants with a cumulative GPA between 2.50-2.74 may still be accepted on a case-by-case basis with a qualifying score on a standardized graduate entrance exam, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT).
- Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language: minimum score of 80
- International English Language Testing System: minimum score of 6.5
Enrollment is subject to program director approval and requires a completed application submitted by the term deadline.
Entry Terms
- Clinical/Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine: Spring, Fall
- Sport and Performance Psychology: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Sports Medicine: Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall
Application Deadlines
View our Dates & Deadlines page for the most up-to-date information.
Deadline considerations:
- Applicants with in-progress coursework will still be considered for admission and are asked to submit final transcripts upon course completion.
- If you are unable to submit your application and materials by the final deadline, please contact the admissions office at [email protected] or 800-641-5641.
Application Requirements and Process
- Official transcripts from all prior colleges and universities
- Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution (mail or electronic) to our mailing address: 8000 NE Tillamook St., Portland, OR 97213
- UWS also accepts electronic transcripts from eScrip-Safe and Parchment
- Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded and attached to your application
- $50 application fee
What happens next:
Once your application and transcripts are received, the admissions team will coordinate with the program director to review your submission. If approved, you will be registered for your courses by the admissions office; non-degree students do not self-register.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive financial aid for non-degree coursework?
No. Students enrolled in non-degree coursework are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships. For more information, please contact the financial aid office.
Which programs offer non-degree coursework?
Non-degree coursework is available through select programs within the College of Graduate Studies. Courses within the College of Chiropractic are not open to non-degree students.
Do I need to submit transcripts from all institutions I’ve attended?
Yes. You are required to submit transcripts for all college-level coursework completed, even if it was a single course or not related to your degree.