Non-Degree Graduate Study

Graduate non-degree study is open to individuals who have already obtained at least a baccalaureate degree (or its equivalent), or will have obtained the degree prior to the start of the admission term. If you begin as a non-degree student and are admitted to the MA program at a later date, you may transfer up to 12 non-degree credit hours toward an advanced degree.

UIC has two categories of non-degree study:

  • General, Unassigned Non-degree
    • The application and admission is managed entirely by the Office of Admissions.
    • Students are not able to enroll in LALS courses without obtaining permission from the course instructor or department.
  • LALS (department-specific) Non-degree
    • The application will be considered for admission by the department.
    • Many LALS courses are open to the LALS non-degree student.
    • In addition to the basic non-degree application, LALS nondegree applicants must submit a personal statement: The statement must address the applicant's professional and academic goals and the candidate’s reasons for applying to a Latin American and Latino Studies graduate program. The statement should have a maximum extension of three double-spaced pages.

Deadlines for Non-degree Applications

Spring: November 15

Summer: April 15

Fall: August 1