masters - How will study as a non-degree student affect my graduate admissions chances later?

I am considering applying to a computer science department at an esteemed US university, university A, as a non-degree seeking student. The reason is three-fold:

• Determine if what I'm studying is truly what I want to do.


• Do well in the classes to improve my chances of being accepted to their MS program in the near future.


• Make connections with profs who might be a good academic/research advisor.

My goal is to eventually apply to a PhD program at university B.

Will the non-degree option help my chances at being accepted to university A's MS program?

Will the non-degree option hurt my chances at being accepted to university B's PhD program? Will they need to know about the non-degree if I'm eventually accepted to the degree option?

Answer

Will the non-degree option help my chances at being accepted to university A's MS program?

No.

Will the non-degree option hurt my chances at being accepted to university B's PhD program?

No.

Will they need to know about the non-degree if I'm eventually accepted to the degree option?

Do well in the course and then you'll be proud to share the transcript with them.