Graduate Open Enrollment
Advanced non-degree study for policy and strategy professionals
Advance Your Expertise
Accelerate your career without having to commit to a full degree through flexible, single-course enrollment at UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS). This unique option grants you access to world-class faculty and graduate-level coursework alongside our degree-seeking students, allowing you to master new skills, explore emerging fields and experience our dynamic campus community on your own terms.
Is This Program for You?
Our graduate open enrollment is designed for:
- Working Professionals: Gain targeted skills and expand your network
- Prospective Students: Test-drive a graduate program before applying
- Career Advancers: Build foundational expertise in a new field
- Lifelong Learners: Explore graduate-level international affairs and public policy
This program is administered by the school’s Global Leadership Institute (GLI)
- Courses are offered on a space-available basis
- Classes are held in person only
- Applicants must demonstrate academic or professional readiness
- Tuition and fees are charged per course
- Credits may be eligible to transfer toward a future GPS degree program
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
Step 1: Choose an available course
Browse eligible graduate courses open to non-degree students each term. Not sure which course fits your career goals? Your dedicated academic adviser is available to help you map your professional trajectory.
Step 2: Submit a short application
Provide basic background information and demonstrate readiness for graduate-level work.
Step 3: Receive approval from the program
Enrollment is subject to instructor approval and space availability. Your adviser will advocate for your enrollment and manage the departmental approval process on your behalf.
Step 4: Enroll and start learning
Once approved, you’ll enroll in the course and gain full access to lectures, assignments and course resources. Your adviser will walk you through every step of the process to ensure a seamless start to your term.
Will I receive credit?
At the conclusion of any individual course at GLI, you will receive an official UC San Diego academic transcript. This serves as a formal record of your graduate-level achievement and the credits you’ve earned.
How do I enroll?
Schedule an appointment to discuss with a member of the GLI team!
What’s the cost?
Cost is based on the course, quarter and academic year. (Your adviser will give you that information once you start the process.)
From Single Course to Certified Expert
Don’t just take a class — master a domain. While a single course offers immediate insight, our 12-unit Certificate Pathways are designed for professionals who want to lead. By grouping elite GPS graduate courses you take into a structured credential, you’re proving your specialized knowledge of global policy and leadership to academic institutions and employers.