Returning to college as an adult learner comes with unique advantages, one of which is the opportunity to turn your professional experience into college credit. Over the years, you’ve gained invaluable skills, knowledge, and expertise in your field, and many schools recognize the value of these experiences. By leveraging work experience, you can potentially save time, reduce tuition costs, and fast-track your educational journey.
Here’s a guide on how to convert your work experience into college credit and make the most of the knowledge you’ve already earned.
1. Understanding Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Many colleges offer Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) programs to evaluate and credit adult learners’ real-world knowledge. Through a PLA, schools can assess your skills and experiences to determine if they align with the learning outcomes of specific courses. Some of the common methods of assessment include:
- Portfolio Evaluation: You create a portfolio detailing your work experience, skills, and accomplishments relevant to your program. The portfolio usually includes a narrative explaining how your experience aligns with course objectives, along with supporting documentation such as certificates, letters of recommendation, and work samples.
- Standardized Exams: Some colleges accept standardized exams like CLEP (College Level Examination Program) or DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) as proof of proficiency. These exams cover a range of subjects, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge and earn credits.
- Challenge Exams: Some institutions allow you to take challenge exams for specific courses. If you pass, you receive credit as if you had completed the course. These exams are often customized by the college to match its curriculum.
- Professional Training and Certifications: If you’ve completed professional training programs, workshops, or certifications, some colleges may count these toward college credit. Examples include technical certifications, military training, industry-recognized credentials, or apprenticeships.
2. Research Schools Offering PLA Programs
Not all schools accept work experience for credit, so it’s important to find institutions that offer PLA programs and evaluate how your experience may transfer. Some schools are known for their PLA-friendly policies, and many online universities cater specifically to adult learners with established processes for crediting work experience.
- Thomas Edison State University: Known for accommodating adult learners, TESU has a robust PLA program that includes portfolio assessment and credit-by-exam options.
- Excelsior College: Excelsior offers the UExcel Exam program, an assessment system that awards college credit based on your existing knowledge.
- Charter Oak State College: This school has flexible policies for crediting work experience and supports various PLA pathways, including credit for prior certifications and licenses.
- American Public University (APU): APU has an established PLA process, allowing students to earn credit through work experience, military service, and more.
Choose a school that aligns with your career goals and offers flexibility in recognizing professional experience.
3. Building a Strong Portfolio
If your college requires a portfolio assessment, investing time into a detailed and well-organized portfolio can make a big difference. The portfolio showcases your experience, skill level, and achievements in a structured format. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Detailed Resume: Start with a comprehensive resume that highlights your job roles, responsibilities, accomplishments, and the duration of your positions. Tailor your resume to align with the academic program’s goals and courses.
- Written Narrative: This is a crucial part of your portfolio where you detail how your work experience fulfills specific course requirements. Be specific about tasks you performed, skills you acquired, and how these relate to academic concepts.
- Documentation and Proof: Supporting documents are key to a convincing portfolio. Include certifications, letters of recommendation, performance reviews, and any awards or recognitions that demonstrate your expertise.
- Relevant Work Samples: If applicable, include samples of work projects, presentations, reports, or other deliverables. These samples provide tangible proof of your abilities.
A well-organized portfolio will make it easier for reviewers to assess your experience and credit you for the work you’ve done.
4. Leverage Industry Certifications and Licenses
Industry-recognized certifications can be an efficient way to earn college credits. Many programs recognize professional certifications as proof of expertise, allowing you to skip introductory courses. Here are some examples of certifications commonly accepted for credit:
- Project Management: Certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) are often accepted as credits for business or project management courses.
- IT and Computer Science: Certifications like CompTIA A+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) may count as credits toward IT or computer science degrees.
- Healthcare: Certifications for healthcare professionals, like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), can often be applied toward healthcare or nursing degrees.
- Finance and Accounting: The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations may count as credit for finance or accounting programs.
- Military Training: Many colleges recognize military training and experience. The American Council on Education (ACE) provides a guide to military training that translates it into recommended college credits.
5. Take Advantage of CLEP and DSST Exams
The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) are nationally recognized exam programs that allow students to earn credit for college-level knowledge. Both options are available to civilian and military students and cover various subjects.
- CLEP Exams: CLEP exams offer 33 tests across five categories: composition and literature, world languages, history and social sciences, science and mathematics, and business. Each exam costs around $90, significantly less than a college course, and a passing score may translate into college credits.
- DSST Exams: DSST exams cover topics such as business, humanities, math, physical science, social science, and technology. These exams were originally designed for military personnel, but they’re now available to all students.
Studying for and passing CLEP or DSST exams can be an effective way to quickly earn credit for subjects you’re already familiar with.
6. Look into Competency-Based Education Programs
Competency-Based Education (CBE) programs evaluate students based on their mastery of skills rather than time spent in class. CBE programs are ideal for adult learners with work experience, as they allow you to progress through courses at your own pace, testing out of material you already know.
- Western Governors University (WGU): WGU offers several competency-based degree programs that allow you to move quickly through topics you already understand, based on assessments rather than traditional courses.
- Purdue University Global: Purdue Global has a competency-based option called ExcelTrack that lets students earn credit by demonstrating skills and knowledge through assessments.
CBE programs are an efficient path to completing your degree, especially if you have significant prior experience in your field.
7. Find Out About Credit for Life Experience Programs
Some schools have Credit for Life Experience programs, which are similar to PLA but are often broader and may include credit for volunteer work, community service, and other non-professional experiences. These programs are ideal for students with diverse backgrounds and extensive life experiences beyond formal work.
For example:
- Southern New Hampshire University: My alma mater offers a vast number of opportunities to match your prior experience and learning for existing knowledge and skills.
- Liberty University offers a Credit for Life Experience program that awards credit for a wide range of life experiences, including community service and leadership roles.
- Capella University has an assessment program where students submit life experiences for evaluation and potential credit.
Check with your institution to see if they offer a life experience credit option. You might be surprised by how your community service, volunteer work, or even personal achievements can translate into academic credit.
8. Seek Guidance from an Academic Advisor
Navigating the process of converting work experience into college credit can be complex, and each school may have different requirements. Before you begin, consult with an academic advisor to understand your options and map out the most efficient path. Advisors can help you identify which experiences are likely to qualify for credit, guide you through the PLA process, and offer advice on creating your portfolio or preparing for exams.
9. Weigh the Cost vs. Time Saved
While earning college credit for work experience can save money, some methods, like portfolio assessments, come with fees. Make sure to compare the cost of assessment fees with the potential savings on tuition. Additionally, consider the time you’ll save by converting your experience into credit, as this can allow you to enter the workforce sooner or reduce your workload.
10. Stay Organized and Follow Up
Once you start the PLA process, keep all documents organized and follow up regularly with the admissions or PLA office. It can take time for credits to be evaluated and applied, so being proactive can ensure that your credits are recognized without delay.
Embrace the Advantages of Your Work Experience
Turning work experience into college credit not only helps reduce the time and cost of a degree, but it also validates the skills you’ve developed in the real world. By recognizing the value of your background, you can move confidently through your program, knowing you’re building on a strong foundation. Returning to school is a courageous step, and with the right approach, you can make it a rewarding journey—one that leverages all you’ve accomplished to reach new academic and career heights.
