Turn your experience into college credit

Your work, training, and life experience may have already helped you develop college-level knowledge. Through portfolio assessment, you can document what you know and potentially earn credit toward your degree.

How Portfolio Assessment Works

You will create a structured portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge in a specific subject area.

Your portfolio is reviewed by faculty to determine if it meets the learning outcomes of a course.

Credit is awarded based on what you can clearly demonstrate.

What’s Included in a Portfolio

A portfolio typically includes:

  • A written explanation of what you know
  • Examples of your work or experience
  • Documentation such as certifications, training, or projects
  • A connection between your experience and course learning outcomes

You don’t need to have everything prepared before you start. Guidance is provided along the way through a self-paced course we have created to help you.

Is This a Good Option for You?

Portfolio assessment may be a good fit if you:

  • Have significant work or life experience in a specific area
  • Have developed skills outside of a classroom
  • Prefer to explain and demonstrate your knowledge rather than take an exam

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Portfolios take time and effort to complete
  • Not all courses are eligible for portfolio assessment
  • Credit is based on demonstrated learning, not experience alone
  • Review and assessment fees apply

What to Do Next

Every portfolio is unique.

Connecting with an advisor can help you:

  • Determine if portfolio assessment is a good fit
  • Identify the right course(s) to target
  • Understand the steps and support available

Know Which Program You Want to Pursue? 

Go to the Academic Programs that Offer ACPL drop down bar and select your program of interest to find the faculty advisor contact.

Not sure where to start? 

Reach out to PriorLearning@cwu.edu

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