Non-Degree Students

Enhance your current skillset at work, test out a new career direction, or explore a personal interest!  If you have a bachelor's degree from an accredited, four-year institution, then you may be eligible to take graduate-level courses as a non-degree student.

On-Campus Courses

Submit the Non-Degree Graduate Student Application (PDF)

How to Register

Once you have applied, you will then receive an email with a Net ID and password to register for your classes using SPIRE, our online student information system. Use SPIRE’s "Search Classes/Catalog” function to access course information.

If you have any issues with SPIRE, please contact the IT Help Center at (413) 545-9400 or it@umass.edu for assistance.

When to Register

For non-degree students taking on-campus university courses, registration begins one week before classes start. Please consult the Academic Calendar for the most up-to-date information.  If you are unable to self-register for a graduate-level course contact the academic department to determine if you are eligible. 

Courses through University Without Walls

How to Enroll

Enrollment information is available through University Without Walls.

Applying Courses Toward a Degree

Course credits earned as a non-degree graduate student do not accumulate toward a graduate degree at this university. However, if you are later admitted to a graduate degree program, a maximum of six (6) graduate credits earned as a non-degree student may be applied to that program. This requires a favorable recommendation by the appropriate Graduate Program Director and approval by the Dean of the Graduate School.

Identification Card

Non-degree students are eligible for a UMass identification card, called the UCard, that is also used as your library card. You may obtain your ID card from the UCard Office.