Credit for Prior Learning

Overview

Previous work, volunteer work, military experience, professional certs and courses, and various other types of training and experience are all forms of informal learning that may lead to college-level learning credit. To seek credit for prior learning you must be formally admitted into a degree at WCCC.

Prior Learning Purpose

WCCC relies on the following to ensure practices consistent with academic integrity and responsiveness to learners. Prior learning may be derived from various life, work, and educational experiences and the term “prior learning assessment” (PLA) refers to all of the processes WCCC uses to review and evaluate evidence of learning and to award academic credit. The basis for evaluating all prior learning is via course equivalency. WCCC commits to the academic and administrative standards proposed by the nationally-recognized industry leader, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). The college awards credit for examinations based on current American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations. Where applicable, WCCC required scores reflect current ACE recommendations. Adherence to this policy is also intended to support the transparent transfer of PLA credit among institutions of higher education.

Find out if you can get credit for what you know!
WCCCs Academic Credit for Prior Learning Policy and Procedures

AP – Advanced Placement Coursework

Students who completed Advanced Placement courses in high school and passed the College Board AP exam(s) with the specified score(s) as outlined in WCCC’s policy and procedure.  The AP score(s) should be requested by the student as part of the admissions process and sent directly to the WCCC Admissions Office for review and transcription. AP Exam Scores for more information.

CLEP – College Level Examination Program

The College Board offers 33 exams in five subject areas covering material taught in courses typically required in the first two years of college.  Students who earn the specified score(s) as outlined on the WCCC PLA Matrix will receive credit for the equivalent WCCC course(s).  The CLEP score(s) should be requested by the student as part of the admissions process or at the time the exam is taken and sent directly to the WCCC Admissions Office for review and transcription. CLEP Scores for more information.

DSST – DANTES Subject Standardized Test

The DSST program offers 38 examinations in a wide range of college-level academic, technical and business subjects.  These exams originated with the Department of Defense but are open to all learns.  Students who earn the specified score(s) as outlined on the WCCC PLA Matrix will receive credit for the equivalent WCCC course(s). The DSST score(s) should be requested by the student as part of the admissions process or at the time the exam is taken and sent directly to the WCCC Admissions Office for review and transcription. DSST Scores for more information.

WCCC Challenge Exams

When no other national exam exists, WCCC may offer challenge exams to students with specific knowledge for courses which have been approved by the Dean of Academic Affairs and the faculty for the specific course(s).  Students seeking permission to take exams must use the Prior Learning Assessment Request form; the Challenge Exam fee is $100 per course. Challenge Exams for more information.

Additional links to PLA resources

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES)
Joint Services Transcript
Community College of the Air Force
AP Exams
International Baccalaureate