What is the difference between registration and application?
Adult students may take any course at Penn State as nondegree students. There is no limit on the number of courses you may accumulate; however, it is best to consult with an adviser to be sure that the courses you choose can be applied toward a degree, if you decide later to pursue a degree. Application is made to the University to enroll in a degree program. An application form is available online from the Undergraduate Admissions Office.
How do I register for a course?
You can print the PDF registration form and fax, mail, or bring it to the Student Services office. The best place to start is with an adviser, who can help you select and register for courses and give you helpful information on course materials.
Can I take graduate courses through Continuing Education?
Courses offering credit toward a master's degree are available through Penn State Continuing Education; however, taking such courses does not guarantee your acceptance into a graduate program. To enroll in a graduate program, contact the Graduate School.
Adults may also take individual upper-level courses under "graduate nondegree" status. There is a credit limit if you plan to apply to a graduate program. Speak with an adviser for more information.
Whom do I contact with program questions?
If you need information about a course curriculum, a transcript audit, or courses in the major, contact Student Services. Administrative questions should be directed to the Continuing Education office.
Do I have to take an entrance exam or the SAT?
Adult students do not have to take an entrance examination. Your adviser may suggest that you take a placement test for math and/or English to determine the course(s) best suited for you.
I work full-time and cannot attend regular classes. Are there options?
Penn State Continuing Education offers more than 400 courses in the evening, especially for working adults who want to attend college part-time. Classes meeting from 7:00 to 8:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. were added in fall 2005. The new, weekend college program is scheduled to begin in fall 2006.
Do I need to enroll as a degree student? I went to college years ago but did not complete my degree. Will my credits transfer?
In general, credits from accredited institutions will be considered as long as there is a current course match at Penn State. Some credits may be used as electives if they are not part of your new major. A transcript audit can be done with an adviser to find out for sure.
If you are returning to school after some absence, we recommend that you begin with one or two courses before you apply to the University for degree status. Your adviser can help you make sure that you are taking courses that could transfer into a degree program.
I am not sure what I am interested in. How do I decide what to take?
An adviser can help you match your interests to courses and a degree program, work out a course schedule, and help you through the enrollment process.
How do I know what materials are required for a course? Where do I buy my textbooks?
There are several ways to obtain course material requirements:
Visit The Penn State Bookstore for an online list of required and optional materials. You will need to know your course number (i.e., ENGL 015) and the instructor. The same system is available at their campus store located in the Hub. Commercial booksellers in town, such as the Student Bookstore or University Book Store, sort books on the shelves by course, section, and instructor.
A great online source is Half.com. New, like new, and good condition books are offered for sale by other students and online book vendors. Most books are shipped media mail with the option of express delivery.Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com also offer a limited selection of textbooks through their online stores.
What about parking?
All lots on the Penn State University Park campus are permit lots. You can obtain a permit issued to part-time students or use the metered parking.
