Preparing to Apply

The Graduate School at Clemson University offers 140 graduate degree programs in 85 disciplines. Before you apply, be sure that the program meets your educational and career goals. You also need to determine if you are a degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking student (see definitions below).

All graduate students, whether degree-seeking or non-degree, must have completed a minimum of a bachelor’s degree before beginning graduate courses.

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Applicants who wish to pursue a graduate degree at Clemson University are considered “degree-seeking students.” This includes all applicants seeking a master’s, doctorate or any professional degree. On the "Program Selection" application page, you will be prompted to select the degree type before selecting your program. 

Admission to the “non-degree” category is limited primarily to those who may benefit professionally from additional study at the graduate level. Students working towards a teaching certificate or recertification or an add-on certificate to augment professional credentials would be non-degree students. As a non-degree student, you must receive permission from the program coordinator or the department chair of your program before you enroll in any graduate course.

Non-Degree Seeking Students Checklist

South Carolina senior citizens may enroll in courses as an Auditor or for credit at no charge. There is no limit to the credit hours allowed. Enrollment is subject to the following conditions:

• You are 60 years of age or older
• You are a South Carolina resident for 12+ months
• Enrollment is based on space availability

Inquire in 102 Sikes Hall, email the Registrar's Office or call 864-656-2171.

All application-support materials required by the graduate school should be uploaded as digital files to the online application for admission. These may include:

• Personal statements.
• Unofficial copies of transcripts.
• Resumes/CVs.

Based on the guidelines provided by your program(s) of interest you may also submit other supporting materials, such as your portfolio.

Please note that official transcripts are only required of those applicants who are offered admission. Please do not mail in an official transcript unless you’ve received an offer of admission.