Applying as a Non-Degree Seeking Student
Explore Graduate Study Your Way
Affordable. Flexible. Designed for you.
Non-degree seeking graduate students (graduate specials) are individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher and want to take graduate-level courses at UW-Green Bay—without enrolling in a full graduate degree program. Whether you're exploring new interests, advancing your career or preparing for future graduate study, these courses offer graduate credit at a cost that respects your budget.
Admission Requirements
To apply as a non-degree seeking (Graduate Special) student, be aware the program has general Graduate Studies admission requirements.
Non-Degree Seeking Grad Student
The non-degree seeking graduate student (Graduate Special) application option is a good fit if you're not already enrolled at UW-Green Bay and you:
- Want to take graduate courses without pursuing a degree or certificate.
- Intending to transfer UW-Green Bay credits to another institution.
- Are exploring graduate school before committing to a program.
Exclusions
As a non-degree seeking graduate student, some exclusions apply:
- Not all graduate courses are open to non-degree seeking students.
- Non-degree seeking students aren't eligible for independent study, internships or culminating experiences, such as a capstone project or thesis.
- Non-degree seeking students aren't eligible for financial aid.
General Admission Requirements
Before you begin your application, ensure you meet the general requirements for graduate study at UW-Green Bay. All applicant materials must be submitted through one of our admission systems (CAS portals). While individual programs may have additional criteria, all applicants must provide the following:
- Complete Application
- Bachelor’s Degree: You must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution (or US equivalent) before your first term of enrollment.
- Resume
- Official Transcripts
- Non-refundable Application Fee: A non-refundable graduate application fee will be paid within the online application portal.
No GRE or GMAT Tests
Your potential can't be fully captured by a single standardized test. We are committed to making the admissions process accessible while evaluating your application through a comprehensive review of your academic background, accomplishments and readiness for graduate-level work.
Application Deadlines
In general, the application period closes later for non-degree seeking students than for those seeking to enroll in degree or certificate programs each term.
Deadlines by Term
| Certificate Term | Early Deadline |
|---|---|
| Spring 2027 | Tue, Jan 25, 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | Mon, May 24, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | Wed, Sep 1, 2027 |
Ready to apply?
If you are ready to take the next step in gaining more expertise, have an opportunity advance in your career and make a greater impact in your field, submit your application today.
Need more admission details?
You will find more details, including information on graduate certificates or requirements for international students, in our Graduate Studies Admission Guide. There are also detailed instructions within CAS, our admission system, that make it easy for you.
International Students
International applicants will also need to provide English proficiency, as well as a course-by-course evaluation of their transcript. For further information, please refer to the international requirements page.
Interested in a Grad Certificate?
Looking for a credential or something more than a single course? UW-Green Bay has a number of graduate certificates—most of which are stackable toward a UW-Green Bay graduate degree.
Get in Touch
Whatever your reason for taking a graduate course, we're here to help you pursue further education. If you have any questions, contact our team at (920) 465-2648 or gradstu@uwgb.edu.