How much does it actually cost to take classes at UC Berkeley Extension?
I'm a high school senior considering taking some extra classes before I start college, and UC Berkeley Extension came up as an option. I've been looking at their website but the pricing seems kind of confusing—some courses are listed at different rates and I can't tell if there are extra fees or anything.
Does anyone have experience signing up for classes there? Would love to know what the total cost turned out to be per class, and if the prices changed based on subject or the number of units. Also, are there any hidden costs I should watch out for, like registration or materials fees? I'm trying to save up some money and want to know what to expect before committing to anything.
If you have any advice or any recent info on how much you ended up paying, that would help me out a lot!
Does anyone have experience signing up for classes there? Would love to know what the total cost turned out to be per class, and if the prices changed based on subject or the number of units. Also, are there any hidden costs I should watch out for, like registration or materials fees? I'm trying to save up some money and want to know what to expect before committing to anything.
If you have any advice or any recent info on how much you ended up paying, that would help me out a lot!
4 months ago
•
571 views
Kathy Jayanth
• 4 months ago
Advisor
UC Berkeley Extension pricing can be a bit confusing because the cost per course depends on several factors, like the subject, number of units (credits), and delivery mode (online, in-person, or hybrid courses). As a high school senior, the total you’ll pay per class typically ranges between $400 to $1,200 for most academic courses, but prices can vary significantly.
For-credit undergraduate courses usually charge a fee per unit—this can be anywhere from $400 to $650 per unit. For instance, a 3-unit psychology course might cost $1,350 ($450 per unit x 3 units). Professional and certificate courses can be lower or higher, depending on the field (tech and business courses are often more expensive).
There are additional mandatory fees you should budget for:
1. Registration fee: As of early 2024, there’s a one-time registration fee of $125 for first-time UC Berkeley Extension students.
2. Course materials: Expect to buy textbooks, software, or lab materials if your course requires them, which can add $50–$200 per class.
3. Some classes have extra lab fees, especially in science or technology subjects, generally in the $25–$200 range.
For example, if you took a 3-unit biology course:
- Course tuition: $1,200
- Registration fee: $125 (if it’s your first course)
- Textbook & lab fee: $100 (estimate)
Total: Around $1,425
If you plan to take multiple courses, you’ll only pay the registration fee once. Also, UC Berkeley Extension doesn’t usually have hidden fees, but always double-check the course details page for each class; fees and material costs are listed in the course description or at checkout.
One last tip: If you’re only taking Extension courses to get ahead or explore a subject, focus on what you want to accomplish (credit, skill-building, GPA boost) since the value can depend on your goals. You can also sometimes find scholarships or discounts for high school students, so it’s worth emailing the Extension office to ask about any current opportunities.
Hope this helps you plan and budget more confidently!
For-credit undergraduate courses usually charge a fee per unit—this can be anywhere from $400 to $650 per unit. For instance, a 3-unit psychology course might cost $1,350 ($450 per unit x 3 units). Professional and certificate courses can be lower or higher, depending on the field (tech and business courses are often more expensive).
There are additional mandatory fees you should budget for:
1. Registration fee: As of early 2024, there’s a one-time registration fee of $125 for first-time UC Berkeley Extension students.
2. Course materials: Expect to buy textbooks, software, or lab materials if your course requires them, which can add $50–$200 per class.
3. Some classes have extra lab fees, especially in science or technology subjects, generally in the $25–$200 range.
For example, if you took a 3-unit biology course:
- Course tuition: $1,200
- Registration fee: $125 (if it’s your first course)
- Textbook & lab fee: $100 (estimate)
Total: Around $1,425
If you plan to take multiple courses, you’ll only pay the registration fee once. Also, UC Berkeley Extension doesn’t usually have hidden fees, but always double-check the course details page for each class; fees and material costs are listed in the course description or at checkout.
One last tip: If you’re only taking Extension courses to get ahead or explore a subject, focus on what you want to accomplish (credit, skill-building, GPA boost) since the value can depend on your goals. You can also sometimes find scholarships or discounts for high school students, so it’s worth emailing the Extension office to ask about any current opportunities.
Hope this helps you plan and budget more confidently!
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Kathy Jayanth
Berkeley, CA
UC Berkeley | Economics & Slavic Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating