The Non-Degree Studies (NDS) Program is administered by the Department of Registration and Records and provides individuals who have not matriculated into a degree program access to credit courses at NC State University as a visiting student on a part-time basis. The program is primarily intended for adults seeking to: update professional skills, enrich their personal experiences, or explore graduate programs. However, visiting undergraduates may also use the program.

Please note: Admission to NDS does not imply admission to an undergraduate or graduate degree program. NDS students are also required to adhere to the academic and conduct standards, policies, and procedures, as well as all add, drop, and withdrawal deadlines for NC State students.

PBS stands for Post-Baccalaureate Studies, a designation for students who already have a baccalaureate degree (BA or BS) but who want to take additional courses. Some students may eventually apply for enrollment into an undergraduate or graduate degree program at NC State or may just be taking courses without working towards another degree.

UGS stands for Undergraduate Studies. UGS are those students who do not have a college degree and take NC State courses through the Non-Degree Studies (NDS) program. A UGS student 1) has a high school diploma or GED certificate; 2) has not been suspended from any college or university including NC State within the last three years; 3) is not presently a degree candidate at NC State -in other words, is not admitted to NC State as a degree-seeking student (but could later choose to apply to NC State); or 4) is a high school student who has been recommened to take college level courses through the Academic Enrichment Opportunities program.