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Credit for Prior Learning

New Possibilities

That's what going to college can open up for you. But for many going to college is easier said than done. We understand that. That's why we're creating more online and evening classes, and a program that gives you credit for prior learning. You can do it. Find out how!

What is Credit for Prior Learning ?

The practice of awarding credit for college-level prior learning is based upon the belief that the education which builds on, interprets, and incorporates past and present knowledge is the education that is most meaningful to the student.

Mesa State College (MSC) and Western Colorado Community Collge (WCCC) recognize that students may have gained college-level knowledge and competencies through their work and life experiences which can be incorporated into their academic programs. Consequently, MSC & WCCC offer a number of ways for students to earn credit for prior learning: Credit through national and/or departmental exams, CLEP, DANTES, Departmental Challenge, Advanced Placement, military credits for non-accredited training (ACE) as well as a portfolio assessment process by which prior learning can be analyzed, articulated, documented, and assessed for credit.

Process

Students are encouraged to seek transfer of prior college credits as the first step.
Explore all testing opportunites - visit the MSC Testing Center for more information.
There are also departmentally-created tests for certain courses. Each Department Chair at MSC and WCCC will be able to provide more specific information on these tests.
Finally, the development of a portfolio can be pursued for many technical or applications-based areas. MSC/WCCC require students take the Portfolio Development Workshop SUPP 105 before creating a portfolio. Check the current semester course listings to learn of the next Portfolio Development Workshop.