Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

What is CPL?

Learning is a lifelong activity. Where it takes place at home, at work, or through an interest or hobby, people continue to learn throughout their lives. Many adults, who are now retuning to or attending college attending college for the first time, seek credit for this lifelong learning as a way to accelerate their progress toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. In response, a rising number of colleges and universities are conducting Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) to help these individuals earn college credit for their demonstrated learning.

How does CPL work?

There are many types of CPL; one of the more popular forms is the portfolio method. This method requires students to document their life experience and demonstrate their similarity to learning gained through formal college education. We then make a determination of the relative worth of the demonstrated learning as it might apply to specific courses with a students' degree program.

What does CPL cost?

Credit for prior learning (CPL) assessment is $50 per lecture credit and $100 per laboratory credit.

Other methods of CPL include:

DCTC makes the determination on the level of credit to be granted based on the outcomes of the assessment.

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