Academic Credit for Prior Learning
You’ve Already Done the Learning. Get Credit for It.
ACPL: Academic Credit for Prior Learning. Turn your work, training, military service, and life experience into college credit and move faster toward your degree.
View Academic Credit for Prior Learning Overview in a new window
ACPL is Designed for Learners Who Are:
- Returning to finish a degree
- Working while going to school
- Changing careers
- Bringing prior training or certifications
- Military or veteran students
Why Adult Learners Choose ACPL
- Save Time - Skip content you already know
- Save Money - Reduce tuition costs
- Finish Faster - Move more quickly toward your degree
- Build on Experience - Turn real-world knowledge into progress.
Explore more to see if Academic Credit for Prior Learning (ACPL) is for you!
Questions? Contact PriorLearning@cwu.edu or Hayley Beckman
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How Does Credit for Prior Learning Work?
You can earn credit for prior learning by demonstrating college-level knowledge you gained outside the classroom through a variety of methods:
Credit by Exam
Already know the material? Pass an approved exam and earn credit without taking the class.
Military Education and Training
Receive credit for military experience that aligns with your program.
Industry Training & Credentials
Earn credit for certifications, licenses, and employer-based training.
Portfolio Assessment
Show what you know through a structured portfolio reviewed by faculty.
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Programs That Offer ACPL
There are a variety of programs at CWU already set up to accept your experience for credits. Explore the programs below to find the best program match for you.
Credit options and availability vary by program.
IT Management
Apply your IT experience, certifications, or technical training toward a degree designed to prepare leaders ready to change the way organizations manage people, projects, and technology.
Professional Studies
Build a degree around your experience with flexible pathways in Occupational Safety and Health, Risk and Safety Management, Project Management, Leadership, or a customized focus.
Law & Justice
Turn your background in public safety, corrections, or legal environments into credit toward a degree focused on justice systems and community impact.
Aviation Management
Leverage your aviation experience or training toward a degree that prepares you for leadership roles in the aviation industry.
EMS Paramedicine
If you hold an accredited paramedic license, you may be able to earn credit and advance your education through this fully online program.
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How to Get Started
Below is a basic outline of the steps to apply for ACPL. For a more detailed checklist, download this document.
Step One:
Connect with us to review your experience and see which CWU program is a good match for you.
Step Two:
Connect with the Faculty Advisor for the Program you want ACPL credit from (you may need to work with more than one faculty member).
Your faculty PLA advisor(s) will help you determine which type of assessment (exam, portfolio, crosswalk, etc.) is best for your individual experience.
See the Programs That Offer ACPL dropdown box for faculty advisor contacts.
Step Three:
Apply to CWU and become an admitted student.
Apply to CWU | Central Washington University
Step Four:
Submit* materials, take the portfolio course, or complete an assessment.
Submission form not live yet.
Step Five:
Faculty review your portfolio and/or other materials and determine credits.
Step Six:
Earn credit toward your degree.
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What Does it Cost?
At CWU a three-credit undergraduate course could cost you on average around $1,000, but with credit for prior learning it may only cost you $150. That’s not only a lot of savings in money, but also in time.*
Crosswalk:
Undergraduate: $50 per credit up to 10 credits and $25 each credit thereafter.
Graduate: $100 per credit up to 5 credits and $50 for each credit thereafter.
Portfolio:
Undergraduate: $75 per credit
Graduate: $150 per credit.
There is no financial aid for PLA credit. It is all self-pay.
*Fees are subject to change.
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