What is Open University?

The UCSB Open University Program is a cooperative arrangement between the UCSB campus and UCSB Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) that enables qualified individuals to enroll in undergraduate and graduate courses on a space-available basis without being formally admitted to UCSB.

Open University is ideal for those who are:

  • Returning to school
  • Preparing to enter UCSB
  • Seeking to complete a few units to graduate
  • Desiring to take specific UCSB courses for professional reasons.
     

If you meet all prerequisites, there is space in a class, and the instructor approves of your participation, you may enroll in UCSB main-campus courses. Seats are not guaranteed in any class because matriculated students (those who are enrolled in a degree program at UCSB) have priority enrollment.

Credits earned through Open University may be applied to degree programs at UCSB, provided all policies and procedures (including petitions) are adhered to as stated in the UCSB General Catalog and the UCSB Schedule of Classes.

If you are seeking a degree at another university, you are urged to verify acceptability of Open University credit through consultation with your own university academic advisor prior to enrollment through UCSB Professional and Continuing Education.

Please note that participation in Open University does not constitute admission to UCSB. Course credits are recorded through UCSB Professional and Continuing Education.