Nondegree Seeking Student Policy
WPO 5.01-4 Nondegree-seeking Student Policies (Op5.01-7)
There are several admission categories for students who meet minimum age requirements and who wish to take courses but do not wish to pursue a degree. Students who later decide to seek a degree must meet requirements for admission as either freshmen or transfer students.
- Nondegree
Students 18 years of age and older or a high school graduate may apply under this classification. Transcripts are not required. Enrollment while in this category is limited to eight credit hours per semester up to a total of 24 hours. Students are not eligible to apply for financial aid while in this classification. Nondegree students must meet the prerequisite if a class has one.
- Nondegree Postbaccalaureate
Students who have a bachelor's degree and wish to enroll in up to a full-time course load with no restrictions on total hours may apply under this classification. Students should provide a copy of their diploma or transcript showing bachelor's degree awarded. Students are not eligible to apply for financial aid while in this classification.
- Completion Program
Students who have completed an associate of arts degree and wish to take Missouri State University-West Plains courses in pursuit of a bachelor's degree through Missouri State University are eligible to apply under this classification. A Missouri State University-Springfield Application for Admission (also available in the Missouri State Outreach office) must also be completed. Official transcripts are required from each previous college or university. Students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale to be admitted under this classification. Some programs have a higher gpa requirement. Students should contact the Missouri State Outreach office at 417-255-7931 for specific program requirements. Students in this classification are eligible to apply for financial aid but must contact the office of financial aid at 417-255-7243 for procedures.
Registration priority is given to early applicants. Students must register for classes prior to the first day of the semester. Students seeking to register after the start of a semester may appeal to the vice chancellor of academic affairs. Appeals will only be approved in situations where extenuating circumstances warrant.
Line of authority
Responsible administrator and office: Vice Chancellor of Student Services
Contact person in that office: Coordinator of Admissions
Effective Date
Chancellor Approval: