Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my degree be from Columbia University?
A: A CVN student is a Columbia University student. As you will take the same
courses as your on-campus classmates, do the same homework, and take the same exams, your degree, transcripts, and
diploma will be the same.
Q: Do I have to commit to a degree program or can I take a single course?
A: Students need not formally matriculate into a degree program,
but may apply to enroll as a non-matriculated student.
Q: Do I ever have to be at the Columbia University campus in New York City?
A: There is never a need to come to campus, although you have the option to sit-in on lectures. CVN students also have full access to
Columbia University resources such as library and other facilities.
Q: How do students hand-in assignments?
A: Everything is done electronically: Homework assignments are handed in via upload or fax, which then
automatically uploads to their online student center.
Graded assignments are returned uploaded to the student center for the students' convenient viewing.
Q: Can I audit a class?
A: Students may elect to audit some (or all) courses during a particular semester. Audit status implies that no academic credit will be given, and no homework or examinations will be assigned or graded. Students enrolling for audit status may do so at reduced fees. However, students will not receive any refunds for dropping or withdrawing from a course that was selected for audit status after the Add/Drop period.
Q: Within how many years must I complete requirements for an MS degree? Is there a limit?
A: Students in an MS program must complete their requirements within 5 years of beginning their
first course counting towards the degree, including courses taken under non-matriculated status.
Q: Do I have to take the GREs?
A: All applicants are required to submit their general GRE exam scores to be considered for admission into the degree programs. However, the GRE exam is not required for
acceptance into non-matriculated status.
Q: Can I get a PhD through CVN?
A: The degree programs from Columbia offered via CVN are Masters of Science (MS) and Professional Degree (PD).
Q: What is the Professional Degree (PD)?
A: The Professional Degree (PD) provides the student with the opportunity to specialize in an area of study beyond the level of the Master of Science program. Students may pursue a PD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering & Operations Research.