Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is a process by which learning mastered outside of the classroom is reviewed for college-level equivalency. Credit for CPL may be granted for learning acquired from work and life experiences; civic, community, or volunteer work; individual study; and in-service training sponsored by associations, business, government, and industry, including the military. Students can demonstrate that they have achieved college-level learning obtained as a result of prior experiences in a particular area and validate their relevant learning related to specific learning outcomes in Elizabethtown College courses.
CPL creates pathways for non-traditional students to accelerate their academic progress toward earning an Etown SGPS undergraduate degree.
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Transfer Credits -
Students who have attended other institutions of higher education may have their completed credits evaluated. SGPS will accept:
- Up to 95 transferable credits from an accredited four-year institution.
- Up to 64 credits from any accredited two-year college, technical, or trade school.
- Credit through Examination - Etown College recognizes college-level examination programs that offer nationally recognized subject area exams.
- Credit by Portfolio Evaluation - See the Credit for Prior Learning Portfolio Experience below.
The Credit Predictor Tool
Want to learn how to identify prior learning from military, workplace, or volunteer experiences that may qualify for college credit? The Credit Predictor Tool can help!
The Credit for Prior Learning Portfolio Experience
How It Works
How do you apply your prior learning for credit? The first step is to complete a one-credit course, PL 1500 – SGPS Experiential Learning Portfolio which will prepare you to submit a CPL application and portfolio. Approved portfolios will demonstrate college-level competencies and writing skills and include a narrative explaining how specific experience aligns with the student learning outcomes of a course(s) in your program. Each statement must be accompanied by tangible evidence and support documentation. With the fee of $450 charged for the assessment of a CPL portfolios students can earn up to 32 credits for a portfolio which equates to savings of over $17,000!
Qualifications to Earn CPL Portfolio Credit
- Must be an active Etown SGPS student who has completed a minimum of 6 credits prior to applying for CPL.
- Students must be in good academic standing with Elizabethtown College.
- Students must be in good financial standing with Elizabethtown College.
- A student has not previously attempted, completed, or transferred in the equivalent course for which CPL credit is being sought.
- The CPL portfolio credit must apply to the student’s major or program of study.
Students interested in pursuing CPL portfolio credit should check with their academic advisor to ensure that they do not enroll into a course for which they may later be seeking to earn CPL equivalent credit.
Contact Us:
For more information on Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) at Etown, complete this form or contact Julie Walton, Director of Program Operations.