Credit for Prior Learning

Not all learning happens in the classroom. If you’re a working adult, it’s likely that you’ve gained important knowledge while on the job, by completing professional certifications, through volunteer work, and/or by serving in the military. At the University of Mary, we not only respect that kind of learning, we reward it with credits you can apply toward your evening or online degree.

Benefits of Prior Learning Credits

If you believe your past experiences have helped you master knowledge related to your bachelor’s or master’s degree, taking the time to transform that knowledge into credits can pay dividends in two ways.

  1. Graduate Faster. The more credits you start with, the fewer additional credits you’ll need to earn — so you can complete your degree in less time.
  2. Save Money. Prior learning credits cost less than full courses, reducing the overall cost of your degree.
  3. Advance Sooner. By reducing your course load and time to degree, you’ll take the next step in your career sooner, increasing your capabilities, impact, and earnings.

Earning Prior Learning Credits

Earning credits for life, work, military, or any other non-classroom experience begins with a prior learning assessment (PLA). At the University of Mary, we use two methods to complete a PLA: standardized testing and portfolio review.

Tests for Prior Learning Credits

We accept scores from both the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and the DANTES Subjects Standardized Tests (DSST). Take a look at how we convert scores into credits by reviewing our CLEP chart and our DSST chart. CLEP and DSST tests can apply toward your undergraduate coursework.

View Testing Services on Campus

Portfolio Review for Prior Learning Credits

By assembling documentation of your prior learning into a written portfolio, you can earn undergraduate or graduate credit for that learning. To pursue this path, enroll in our Prior Learning Assessment for Academic Credit class (PLS 321) to investigate what prior learning experiences can lead to credit and learn how to present that experience in a portfolio. Once your portfolio is complete, the University of Mary departmental faculty will evaluate it and determine credit awards.

To learn more about the PLA process, contact our admissions office today at 701-355-8030 or enroll@umary.edu.