Q. What is the difference between credit and non-credit classes and programs?
In general, credit courses are designed for students who are interested in earning
college credits towards a degree or certificate. Students who take credit courses
receive a letter grade (A, B, C, D or F) at the end of the semester.
Non-credit courses classes are intended for students who want to gain general knowledge,
learn a new skill, upgrade existing skills, enrich their understanding about a wide
range of topics, or develop personal interests. Upon completion of a course, students
may receive a grade of pass or no pass. Non-credit classes are NOT applicable toward
a degree. Upon completion of a series of required classes, students can earn a non-credit
vocational certificate of completion or competency.
Q. Who may attend non-credit classes and programs?
Anyone 18 years of age or older. Students holding F1/F2 and B1/B2 Visas are not allowed
to enroll in non-credit courses. High school and ROP students who may benefit from
instruction and have permission from both their high school district or ROP, and their
parent/guardian also may attend.
Q. Why would I take non-credit classes or a non-credit certificate program?
Non-credit classes assist students seeking to improve math or English proficiency,
increase literacy and job skills, support access to higher education and advance employability.
Q. Do non-credit classes appear on my Foothill College transcript?
No, non-credit classes are not recorded on Foothill College transcripts. However,
students who complete certain vocational courses receive an official Foothill College
class certificate.
Q. How do I show proof of course completion?
Students who complete certain vocational courses receive an official Foothill College
class certificate. Students who need additional documentation may ask for a letter
of completion from the class instructor or from the academic division.
Q. Is there a different Student Identification Number for non-credit classes?
No, your Foothill College Student Identification Number (SID) is the same for all
Foothill College courses, both credit and non-credit classes.
Q. Can I preregister for any non-credit classes or programs?
Yes, you can preregister for non-credit classes online by submitting an application
for admission to Foothill College (if you are not a continuing student) and then register
for classes online through your MyPortal account. Registration may be possible at
the first class meeting if space is available.
Generally, you will find classes and certificate programs listed by area of non-credit
in Foothill Searchable Class Schedule (look for courses listed as non-credit with zero[0] units). Course and program descriptions
in the Foothill College Catalog. The programs are also listed in this site - see the left navigation.
Q. Can I take non-credit and credit classes at the same time?
Yes. As long as a student is in good standing with Foothill College they may enroll
in non-credit and credit classes.
Q. Are there grades in non-credit classes?
Grades are not required in non-credit classes. However, instructors may decide to
award grades or pass/no pass to students. Certificates of Competency do require that
students who pass the program have a specific level of competency. Review specific
details of each class or program.
Q. Do non-credit classes meet all 12 weeks of each quarter?
Some non-credit courses do meet all 12 weeks of each quarter. However, other classes
and certificate programs are often condensed programs that meet for a specific number
of days or weeks. Consult the individual class or program description for specific
details about class scheduling.
Q. Can I get Financial Aid for non-credit classes?
No. Federal Financial Aid is not available for non-credit classes. non-credit classes
are offered tuition free. Students are responsible for the purchase of books and supplies.
Financial aid is not available for these materials.
Q- Which specific classes do I need to earn a vocational certificate?
Each certificate program is different and requires a specific sequence of classes
and/or level of competency. This is noted in each non-credit program description.
Q. How many courses can I take?
As many as you like.
Q. Can I repeat a course?
Yes, non-credit courses and programs have unlimited repeatability.
Q. Are there prerequisites for non-credit courses?
For non-credit classes for persons with disabilities, the Prerequisite is the student
must have a medically verified disability. Generally, there are no other prerequisites
for non-credit classes, however some of the certificate programs require a minimum
level of English competency, such as the Geriatric Home Aide program. Mathematical
Foundations NCBS 401A is a prerequisite for Mathematical Foundations NCBS 401B.
Q. Do I need to take a placement or assessment test before starting class?
The majority of non-credit classes do not require a placement or assessment test.
However, some classes in basic skills and ESL do require an assessment test for proper
placement. Review each course description for details.
Q. Can non-credit classes be transferred to another college?
No, non-credit classes are not transferrable.
Q. Are non-credit vocational certificates recognized in the industry?
Yes, short-term vocational certificate such as the Geriatric Home Aide Certificate
are recognized in the Health Care industry.
Q. How long will it take for me finish a non-credit vocational certificate?
It depends on your availability and the availability of the classes being offered.
Not all certificate programs are offered each quarter.
Q. Do I have to purchase books?
If books or other materials are required for the course, you are responsible for purchasing
them. We suggest you do not purchase books until you have attended a class.
Q. Who do I contact if I need more help?
Contact the division if you need more information.
