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Non-Degree Studies

The School of Public Policy offers students the opportunity to take comprehensive, graduate-level courses without formally pursuing a degree.  This option allows individuals (who do not currently wish to pursue a degree but are interested in taking competitive courses) access to skilled faculty within the School of Public Policy.

To be eligible for non-degree graduate course work, candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree.

Non-degree students may choose to change their status and enter into a formal degree program. To do so, students must reapply for admission using the Application for Graduate Study and submit required credentials. If admitted into a degree program, a maximum of four classes taken in non-degree status may be applied toward the degree program.

Please note that international students on F-1 or J-1 visas are not eligible to enroll in non-degree coursework.

Learn more about applications requirements and credentials.


SPP has more than 45 internationally renowned, diverse faculty from many disciplines.

Classes for working professionals are provided in the late afternoon and early evening at the conveniently located Arlington campus.

Executive Education offers programs for public and private sector leaders from the U.S. and abroad.

Study abroad opportunities are provided throughout the world, including in Oxford, Mexico, China, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.