Welcome to the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) page of People's United University. We recognize that learning takes place in many forms, both inside and outside the classroom. Our PLA program is designed to help you earn college credit for the knowledge and skills you've acquired through work, military service, volunteer activities, and other life experiences.

What is Prior Learning Assessment?

Prior Learning Assessment is a process that evaluates your experiential learning and translates it into academic credit. By assessing your prior learning, we can help you accelerate your degree completion and save on tuition costs.

Benefits of PLA

Accelerate Your Degree: Earn credits for what you already know and reduce the time it takes to complete your degree.

Cost Savings: Save money on tuition by earning credits through PLA instead of taking additional courses.

Recognition of Experience: Validate your knowledge and skills gained through real-world experiences.

Types of Prior Learning Assessment

We offer several methods for assessing your prior learning:

Portfolio Assessment: Compile a portfolio that documents your learning experiences and demonstrates your knowledge and skills. Our faculty will evaluate your portfolio for academic credit.

Standardized Exams: Take standardized exams such as CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) or DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) to demonstrate your proficiency in specific subject areas.

Challenge Exams: If you have expertise in a particular subject, you may be able to take a challenge exam developed by our faculty to earn credit.

Military and Professional Training: Submit transcripts from military training (e.g., JST or CCAF) or professional training programs for evaluation. Many of these programs have pre-evaluated credit recommendations.

Work-Based Learning: Provide documentation of work-based learning experiences, such as certifications, licenses, or employer evaluations, that can be assessed for credit.

How to Apply for PLA

1. Initial Consultation: Schedule a meeting with a PLA advisor to discuss your background and determine the best assessment methods for you.
2. Submit Documentation: Gather and submit the necessary documentation for your chosen assessment method(s).
3. Assessment Process: Your documentation will be reviewed by our faculty, and you may be required to provide additional evidence or take an exam.
4. Credit Award: Once your learning has been assessed, you will receive a report detailing the credits awarded. These credits will be applied to your degree program.

Resources and Support

PLA Advisors: Our dedicated PLA advisors are here to guide you through the process, from initial consultation to credit award.

Workshops and Information Sessions: Attend workshops and information sessions to learn more about PLA and how to prepare your documentation.

PLA Handbook: Access our comprehensive PLA handbook for detailed information on policies, procedures, and assessment methods.

Portfolio Development Course: Enroll in our portfolio development course to receive guidance on how to create a strong portfolio that effectively showcases your learning.

Success Stories

Hear from students who have successfully used PLA to accelerate their degrees and achieve their educational goals. Their stories demonstrate the value and impact of recognizing prior learning.

Get Started

Begin your journey towards earning credit for your prior learning today. Contact our PLA office to schedule a consultation and learn more about how PLA can benefit you.

For more information or to speak with a PLA advisor, please contact us on info@puuniversity.org

We look forward to helping you maximize your prior learning and achieve your academic goals at People's United University.