Transfer Credit  From Prior Experiential Learning

Credit may be granted for learning gained from life experiences outside the formal settings listed above. Whether at work, in the military, or in the community, adults have often learned a great deal outside the traditional classroom. Such learning is evaluated by reviewing a portfolio prepared by the student. A course, Experiential Learning Seminar, is regularly offered to guide students in the preparation of their portfolios. There is a fee for credits awarded through this process.

Experience alone, however powerful or valuable, is not sufficient for the award of credit. The student must demonstrate a college-level, conceptual understanding of that experience. Students have written portfolios and received credit in diverse areas such as foreign language, culture and art, literature, theories of management, and knowledge of jazz music.

The award of credit depends on several factors: a formal review, valid documentation of the experience, and an understanding of the academic theory from that experience. It is possible to earn up to 45 credits although most awards of credit are for a total of 20 or fewer credits. Typically, students must enroll in the Experiential Learning Seminar no later than the fifth quarter.

There are other guidelines which must be considered in determining whether Experiential Learning is the right option for a student. Our Experiential Learning Advisor will guide you in this process.

Cooperative education credits are considered experiential credits and will be so evaluated.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are not accepted as transfer credits because they may be awarded based solely on attendance rather than on the basis of knowledge gained. The learning from such experiences may, however, be included as part of a portfolio for prior experiential learning.

In addition to prior experiential learning, credits can be transferred from another university or college or examinations and other sources. Under certain circumstances, we also allow non-degree students to participate in our courses.