Students who enroll in courses but have not been accepted into any degree or certificate program are defined as non-degree students. The same academic rules, regulations, and procedures that govern degree students also govern non-degree students. All credits earned by a student in any certificate program or in a non-degree status may be applied toward a degree program if the courses qualify as degree requirements or electives. Enrollment in specific courses is based on eligibility criteria and availability of space in courses; in certain courses or programs, enrollment may be restricted or prohibited. Payment is due at the point of registration and the charges are based upon the number of enrolled credits.

Non-degree graduate students may complete a maximum of two courses, with approval from the program director. Such students are required to provide transcripts showing completion of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally-accredited college or university prior to obtaining non-degree status.

Students wishing to take graduate education courses as a non-degree student must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5 and must maintain a B- or better in all courses completed at UMW. For graduate education courses, non-degree students may take no more than six courses prior to enrolling in a degree program. Four of these courses may be used to count toward a degree if the student applies and is admitted to a degree program at a later date. Graduate education courses completed more than four years before a matriculated student completes a degree program will not count towards degree requirements.