Credit for Prior Learning

ºÚÁÏÍø recognizes that learning occurs through various experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. As a result, it offers Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) opportunities that make it possible to earn academic credit for knowledge and skills acquired outside formal education. Only students already matriculated at ºÚÁÏÍø may seek CPL.

Follow this link for the Academic Senate Policy on College Credit for Prior Learning.

Work/Life Experience: Demonstrated skills acquired through work, volunteering, or personal endeavors. 

Education Outside Formal Settings: Transcripts or certificates from non-traditional education programs. Awarding academic credit for experiential learning promotes fair and equitable recognition of prior learning, supports student retention, reduces time to graduation, and ensures quality and equity across academic experiences. 

External Standardized Examinations: Scores from exams like AP, IB, or CLEP.

Military Training: Relevant military transcripts, courses, or certificates.

ºÚÁÏÍø may award up to 20 percent of total units of a program (which translates to 24 units for a 120-unit undergraduate degree). Certificates or credentials may also qualify for credit. Units can be taken for credit/no credit or letter grade.

Credit can be applied to:

General Education: Fulfilling breadth requirements.

Major Requirements: Contributing to major coursework.

Electives Outside the Major: Enhancing a well-rounded education.
 

A maximum of 6 units through prior learning experiences can be applied toward a graduate program, with these units being letter-graded only.

  1. Contact the CPL Coordinator. Students interested in pursuing CPL should contact the CPL Coordinator to express interest.
  2. Initial Consultation. The CPL Coordinator will schedule a meeting with the student to discuss their background, experience, and eligibility for CPL.
  3. Application Availability. If the student is deemed eligible, the CPL coordinator will provide access the CPL application.
  4. Application Submission. The student must complete and submit the CPL application, along with any requested supporting documentation.
  5. Application Review. The CPL Coordinator will review the application and contact the student about next steps.

$165 per unit. If your application is approved and a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is required, the student will be subject to a $165 fee per unit.  

PLA is an assessment process used to evaluate and formally recognize learning that has taken place outside of the traditional academic environment. Credit obtained through a PLA shall be recorded as CR/NC or as a letter grade based on the catalog designation of grades allowed for that course. The assigned grade will be determined by the faculty subject matter expert. 

If you have identified a course or courses that you are interested in petitioning via PLA, please contact us for additional information and support.