Yale offers a diverse array of special programs designed to provide unique educational opportunities, cater to non-traditional students, enhance professional development, and foster specific academic interests beyond its traditional degree pathways. These programs extend Yale's rich educational resources to a broader community, including high school students, adult learners, alumni, and individuals seeking specialized knowledge or experiences.
Programs for Non-Traditional & Continuing Learners
Yale is committed to making its education accessible to a wide range of students, including those who may not follow a conventional academic path.
- Eli Whitney Students Program
The Eli Whitney Students Program is specifically designed for non-traditional students—typically those who have had a significant break in their education, are older than average college applicants, and come from diverse life experiences. This program allows eligible students to earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from Yale College, integrating their unique backgrounds into the vibrant undergraduate community. It is a highly competitive pathway for motivated individuals seeking to complete their undergraduate education. Learn more at Yale College Admissions. - Non-Degree Program
Yale's Non-Degree Program encompasses various options for individuals who wish to take courses without enrolling in a full degree program. These opportunities often serve several purposes, such as:- Visiting Students: For students from other institutions who wish to study at Yale for a semester or year.
- Post-Baccalaureate Study: For individuals needing to fulfill prerequisites for graduate or professional school.
- Professional Development: For those seeking to enhance their skills or knowledge in a particular field without committing to a full degree.
- Auditing: Allowing individuals to attend classes without receiving academic credit.
Specific non-degree options may vary by school or department within Yale University.
- Auditing Programs
Yale provides distinct auditing opportunities for different community members:- Alumni Auditing Program: This program allows Yale alumni to audit undergraduate courses, offering a chance to re-engage with academic interests and benefit from Yale's faculty and intellectual environment. It's a popular way for alumni to continue their lifelong learning journey.
- Affiliate Auditing Program: Yale affiliates, such as employees and their spouses/partners, may also have opportunities to audit courses, promoting intellectual engagement within the broader university community. Auditing typically grants access to lectures but does not include participation in discussions, examinations, or official course credit.
Pre-College and Youth Programs
For younger students, Yale offers enriching programs designed to foster academic excellence and provide a taste of university life.
- Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)
Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is a highly selective academic enrichment program for high school students from around the world. It brings together talented rising juniors and seniors for intensive summer sessions focused on critical thinking, leadership development, and interdisciplinary learning in various academic tracks. Participants engage in lectures, seminars, and collaborative projects, experiencing Yale's vibrant intellectual community firsthand. Visit YYGS for details. - Yale Summer Session
Yale Summer Session offers a wide range of courses for both Yale and visiting students, including high school students, college students, and adult learners. These courses, taught by Yale faculty and visiting instructors, provide an opportunity to earn Yale credit in a condensed timeframe during the summer months, both on campus and online. It's an excellent way to explore academic interests or get ahead in studies. Explore options at Yale Summer Session.
Undergraduate & Graduate Enrichment Programs
These programs offer unique academic pathways or enhancements for matriculated Yale students.
- Directed Studies (DS)
Directed Studies is a demanding and celebrated program for select first-year Yale College students. It offers an intensive, interdisciplinary introduction to the foundations of Western literature, philosophy, and political thought through a carefully curated sequence of core texts. Students participate in small seminars and lectures, fostering a deep intellectual community. Find out more at Directed Studies. - Brady-Johnson Program in Grand Strategy
The Brady-Johnson Program in Grand Strategy at Yale brings together students and faculty from across the university to study historical and contemporary "grand strategy"—the integration of political, economic, military, and diplomatic means to achieve long-term national or organizational goals. It offers unique interdisciplinary courses, mentorship, and practical experience for both undergraduate and graduate students. Learn more at Grand Strategy. - Visiting International Student Program (VISP)
The Visiting International Student Program (VISP) allows undergraduate students from international partner institutions to study at Yale for one or two semesters. It provides a valuable opportunity for global academic exchange, enabling students to immerse themselves in Yale's academic and cultural environment. Details are available at VISP.
Military Programs
Yale supports military engagement through dedicated programs.
- Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC)
Yale hosts branches of the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), including Army ROTC (Bulldog Battalion) and Naval ROTC (Navy and Marine Corps). These programs allow Yale College students to pursue military officer training concurrently with their academic studies. Cadets and midshipmen participate in leadership development, physical training, and military science courses, preparing them for commissioning as officers in the U.S. armed forces upon graduation. More information can be found via Yale Army ROTC and Yale NROTC.
Community & Public Service Programs
Yale also extends its educational mission to broader communities through impactful outreach initiatives.
- Yale Prison Education Initiative (YPEI)
The Yale Prison Education Initiative (YPEI) at Dwight Hall at Yale offers credit-bearing college courses to incarcerated individuals in Connecticut. The program provides a high-quality liberal arts education to students who are often excluded from such opportunities, reflecting Yale's commitment to social justice and educational equity. Read about it at YPEI.
These special programs highlight Yale's commitment to diverse forms of learning, community engagement, and providing unique pathways for intellectual growth and personal development.
| Program Type | Key Program Examples | Target Audience | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Traditional/Adult Learning | Eli Whitney Students Program, Non-Degree Programs, Alumni/Affiliate Auditing Programs | Non-traditional students, visiting students, professionals, alumni, staff | Earning a degree, professional development, lifelong learning |
| Pre-College & Youth Enrichment | Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS), Yale Summer Session | High school students, college students | Pre-college academic enrichment, early university experience |
| Undergraduate & Graduate Enrichment | Directed Studies (DS), Grand Strategy, VISP | First-year undergraduates, undergraduates, graduate students, international students | Intensive liberal arts, interdisciplinary strategy, global exchange |
| Military & Public Service | Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), YPEI | Undergraduates, incarcerated individuals | Military officer training, higher education for underserved communities |
