By Marsha Metzer, M.A., MBA
Senior Project Coordinator and PLA Faculty Member
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) can be useful for many non-traditional students who find going back to college daunting. The Prior Learning Assessment program allows students to gain academic credit for skills and knowledge they have built through work, military training, volunteering, and even hobbies. Rather than making students repeat courses on information they already know, PLA offers a way to translate real-world experience into college credits.
How Does the Prior Learning Assessment Program Work?
With PLA, the University provides opportunities for students to demonstrate their college-level learning. Typically, a PLA student creates a portfolio to exhibit a mastery of course objectives. For example, students with 20 years of management experience could develop a portfolio showing that their skills meet the learning goals for an undergraduate or graduate business leadership course.
PLA professionals and subject matter experts then review the portfolio and assess whether to award academic credits for a student’s work. Students receive academic credits on their transcript for the knowledge they have demonstrated, allowing them to graduate faster and save money on tuition.
The Prior Learning Assessment program offers adult learners an accessible way into higher education. It is particularly useful for students who have work, family obligations and other responsibilities.
The Benefits of the Prior Learning Assessment Program Are Clear
In addition to saving time and money, PLA benefits students in other ways, too. By validating their hands-on learning, the Prior Learning Assessment program builds their confidence and reinforces that they have useful business skills. Furthermore, studies show PLA students have equal or better college outcomes than those without credit for prior learning.
With the Prior Learning Assessment program, the knowledge gained from years of work and life experience does not go unrecognized. It provides a bridge between practical know-how and academic accomplishment.
How to Learn More about the University’s PLA Program
PLA offers a powerful way to progress towards a degree while balancing your real-world demands. Before you enroll, take stock of all the knowledge you’ve gained from jobs, military service, hobbies, and volunteer work, and identify areas where you already have advanced skills and knowledge.
After this self-assessment, you can pursue Prior Learning Assessment academic credit and get the most out of your educational journey. For more information, visit our Prior Learning Assessment page or email PLA@apus.edu.
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