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!
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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.
The Office of the Registrar ultimately determines what and how credit comes in.
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 Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) certification into college credit toward a Law and Justice degree, building on your law enforcement training to advance your education and career.
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.
Risk, Insurance, and Safety Management (RISM)
Apply your experience in safety, compliance, risk management, or insurance toward a fully online degree designed for working professionals.
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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.
How to Get Started
Wondering if your experience could count toward a CWU degree? We're here to help! Below is a basic outline of the steps to explore and earn Academic Credit for Prior Learning (ACPL).
Step One: Connect With Us
Let's talk about your experience, educational goals, and which CWU program might be the best fit for you.
Book an Appointment with an Outreach Specialist
Not ready to meet? Email us at PriorLearning@cwu.edu to get the conversation started.
Step Two: Explore Your Prior Learning Credit Options
Your Outreach Specialist will connect you with the appropriate faculty advisor(s) to explore potential credit for your experience. Depending on your background, you may work with more than one faculty member.
Faculty will help identify which assessment options, such as exams, portfolios, or credit for industry training, may be appropriate for your experience.
See Programs That Offer ACPL to explore available programs and credit opportunities.
Step Three: Apply to CWU
Once you've explored your options and are ready to move forward, the next step is to apply and become an admitted CWU student.
Your Outreach Specialist can help guide you through the process and connect you with an Admissions Counselor if needed.
Step Four: Finalize Your Prior Learning Credit Plan
After you've been admitted and confirmed your enrollment, an academic advisor will review your proposed credit for prior learning plan alongside any transfer credits, military transcripts, or other college credits you've earned.
Your advisor will help ensure your plan aligns with your degree requirements and make adjustments if needed.
Step Five: Complete Your Prior Learning Assessments
Follow your personalized plan to complete any required steps. These may include submitting documentation, completing a portfolio course, taking an exam, or participating in another assessment.
Step Six: Faculty Review and Credit Approval
Faculty will review your completed assessments and determine the credits you may be awarded.
You'll receive documentation outlining your approved credits, associated fees, and payment instructions. You'll also be asked to authorize adding the credits to your official CWU transcript.
See What Does It Cost? for details.
Step Seven: Earn Credit Toward Your Degree!
Once the process is complete, your approved credits will be added to your CWU transcript, helping you build on what you already know and move closer to graduation!
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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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Policies for Students
Coming Soon
Ready to Learn More?
Connect with an Outreach Specialist to discuss your experience and degree options.
Book an Appointment
Not Ready to Meet Yet?
Email us at PriorLearning@cwu.edu.
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