Non-Matriculated Graduate Coursework Policy

Brief Overview of the Policy

This policy ensures that non-matriculated enrollment maintains academic integrity, is aligned with program requirements, and is applied consistently across all graduate programs. It also ensures equity by providing transparent criteria and a structured approval process so that all eligible students are reviewed fairly and consistently. By outlining eligibility requirements, request procedures, and tuition considerations, the policy provides clarity for students, advisors, and administrators in making informed decisions about non-matriculated graduate coursework.

Reason for Policy

The purpose of the Non-Matriculated Graduate Coursework Policy is to establish clear guidelines for the rare and exceptional circumstances in which Siena University undergraduate students may enroll in graduate-level courses outside of blended enrollment.

Scope of the Policy: 

• All faculty, administration, and staff members
• All faculty and staff members including student employees
• Supervisors
• Faculty and staff members with managerial or supervisory responsibilities for staff or operations
• Vice presidents
• Deans, directors, chairs, and department heads
• Siena administrators

The Official Policy 

In rare and exceptional circumstances, Siena may permit undergraduate students to enroll in graduate-level courses on a non-matriculated basis. This option is distinct from blended enrollment. Blending is a structured option capped at 6 credits and charged at the undergraduate tuition rate. Non-matriculated enrollment is an exception for taking additional graduate credits, billed at the graduate rate, and reserved for students already admitted to a Siena graduate program, unless pursuing independent pathways to NYS teacher certification.  Taking courses non-matriculated is intended only for students who meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements

• The student must have been formally admitted to a Siena graduate program.*
• The student must be within one calendar year of their undergraduate degree conferral date unless otherwise exempt by the Program Director.
• The request to enroll as a non-matriculated graduate student must be made prior to the start of the course.

*Students pursuing independent pathways to NYS teacher certification may be exempt.

Request Process

Students wishing to take graduate coursework on a non-matriculated basis must:

1. Submit a written request outlining the rationale for the request.
2. Direct this request to both the Graduate Program Director/Coordinator and the Director of Graduate Programs.

Review and Approval

• All requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Approval decisions will be made collaboratively by the Office of Graduate Programs, the appropriate school office (business, liberal arts, or science), and, when necessary, the Provost’s Office.

Tuition and Fees

• Students approved to take graduate courses on a non-matriculated basis will be charged the full tuition rate applicable to their graduate program.
• Non-matriculated students are not eligible for institutional financial aid or scholarships