The College recognizes that significant learning occurs outside formal educational settings at work, in community activities, military experience and in individaul reading and study. Advising Services will assist students in the initial phase of the process, understanding the role of documentation and filing the application. Depending on the nature, duration and extent of the experiences, students may gain up to 30 credits through prior learning.

How might my experience receive MCLA credit?

To find out more about prior learning credit, you should begin by scheduling an appointment with Advising Services, which will be followed by a meeting with the Chairperson of the department(s) from which you will be seeking credit.

If you will be applying for twelve (12) or fewer credits, you will participate in a Basic Evaluation. The Department Chairperson will assist you in determining which credit will most likely match your experience. You will prepare documentation of your experience, which will then be evaluated by the department and approved by the Dean of Academic Studies.

If you are applying for thirteen (13) or more credits, you will participate in a Portfolio Evaluation. You will enroll in Portfolio Preparation and Writing (ENGL 395) and will prepare a formal portfolio documenting these experiences. Documentation normally includes your own narrative description of the learning, examples of work (when appropriate) and documentation from your supervisor(s) on the job. The portfolio and supporting essay will be reviewed by the appropriate department(s) and approved by the Dean of Academic Studies.

Will the credit appear on my transcript?

Yes. All credits granted for Prior Learning Experience will be equated to MCLA courses and will appear on your official transcript.

Do these credits count toward my residency requirement?

No. Prior Learning credits do not count toward the residency requirement of forty-five credits at MCLA.

Must I be matriculated at MCLA to receive prior learning credit?

Yes. In order to participate in either a Basic Evaluation or a Portfolio Evaluation you must be matriculated (admitted and enrolled in a degree program) at MCLA.

When should I begin the prior learning process?

You should begin in your first or second semester at MCLA. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that you could enroll in a course for which you might have received credit through Prior Learning. To prevent this, you should look into the process early in your college career.

Is credit available to me outside of my major?

Yes. Prior Learning credit may be granted for learning experiences of all kinds, not just those in your major.

What is the cost for prior learning credit?

There will be a one hundred dollar ($100) non-refundable administrative fee charge in addition to a fifty dollar ($50) charge for each credit granted. The $100 administrative fee will be required even if no credits are awarded. In addition, those enrolling in the Portfolio Preparation course will be charged the tuition fee for a three (3) credit course.

How do I get started?

To begin the process, please contact Advising Services to set up a meeting to learn what initial steps need to be taken.