Non-Degree Option

The Non-Degree Option (NDO) makes it possible for qualified working professionals to enroll in Stanford graduate-level classes on a course-by-course basis. NDO students may take individual courses, work toward a graduate certificate, or take courses that would later count toward a master's degree (if the student applies and is admitted to the MS program). This program is offered in partnership with the Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education (CGOE) (note: The Stanford Center for Professional Development (SCPD) is now the Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education, better reflecting our global scope and the diverse, worldwide audience we serve).

Non-Degree Option

Did You Know?

• To be eligible for NDO courses, applicants must hold a U.S. bachelor's degree (or international equivalent), earn an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, and demonstrate sufficient academic preparation for the desired course(s).
• To continue taking NDO courses, students must maintain a B or better and an average GPA of 3.0.
• Due to classroom space limitations, students enrolled in courses through NDO are expected to complete courses entirely online.
• Applications are accepted for autumn, winter, spring, and summer. See the links above for the dates when the application will open and close for each quarter.
• Up to 18 units of coursework taken through NDO may be applied toward the master's degree requirements at Stanford, if the student later applies and is admitted to the Honors Cooperative Program or full-time MS program.


Additional Resources

Online Course Offerings Explore the wide array of Stanford courses offered online through SCPD.
SCPD Tuition & Fees Find out the cost of graduate study for NDO students.
SCPD Student Handbooks Read about policies specific to NDO students.

Click on the link below to read about the SCPD application process:

SCPD Website and Application Instructions