It is possible to enroll in RESS classes without being admitted to one of our programs. To do that, you must first be admitted to Penn State as a non-degree graduate student using the nondegree procedure outlined by the Graduate School.
The main prerequisite for taking RESS courses as a non-degree graduate student is a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution under residence and credit conditions substantially equivalent to those required by Penn State.
Applying credits to a certificate or degree program
A maximum of 15 credits taken in "non-degree graduate" status at Penn State may count toward the RESS Master's degree program or Graduate Certificates. You should earn a grade of B or higher to be eligible for credit transfer.
Resume Education
If you have taken Penn State graduate courses before, fill out a Resume Study Form instead of filling out a non-degree application.
International students
International applicants whose first language is not English or who have not received a baccalaureate or master's degree from an institution in which the language of instruction is English must submit a TOEFL score with their Graduate School application materials. The Graduate School recommends that a minimum total score of 80 points (out of 120) on the new test, with a minimum of 23 points (out of 30) on the new speaking portion, be required for new students.