Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Prior Learning is non-college or experience-based learning that has been attained outside the sponsorship of accredited postsecondary education institutions. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Credit includes learning acquired from work and life experiences; community and volunteer extension courses; individual study and reading; civic, community and volunteer work; and participation in informal courses and in-service training sponsored by associations, business, government, and industry. PLA Credit is not awarded for EXPERIENCE, but for college-level LEARNING that entails knowledge, skills, and competencies that students have obtained as a result of their prior learning experience.
The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) awards credit for prior learning assessment based on board policy 9-42 of the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education.
Prior Learning Assessment Credit may be awarded by a variety of methods that include:
- Standardized Tests
- College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
- Excelsior College, UExcel / Formerly American College Testing Proficiency Program (ACT-PEP/RCE/EXCELSIOR)
- DSST, formerly Defense Activity for Nontraditional Educational Support (DANTES)
- Advanced Placement (AP)
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Institutional Challenge Examinations
- Examination equivalent to the comprehensive final exam
- Examination may be written, oral, demonstration or a combination of all three
- Evaluated by an area dean or designated subject expert
- Published Guides
- American Council on Education (ACE) for military training & experiences
- ACE (non-collegiate) for industrial and corporate training programs
- Other published guides developed by nationally recognized organizations
- Portfolio Assessment
- Portfolio requirements and assessment determined by college faculty for work or life experiences that meet the following criteria:
- The learning is demonstrable
- Include both theoretical and applied components
- Are at the college level, and
- Are equivalent to a specific college course or courses in the student’s program of study
- Faculty Evaluated Industry and Workplace Credit
- Faculty evaluation of non-collegiate training programs that result in industry certifications, professional licensure, apprenticeship completion, and other workplace skill development.
Note: Students, staff and faculty can learn more about the Colorado Community College System PLA Credit System by visiting www.cccs.edu/PLA. The Prior Learning Assessment form is available in the Office of the Registrar.