Prior Learning FAQs

How will Prior Learning affect my grade point average?
Credits earned through the Prior Learning assessment are not calculated into a student’s GPA.

What are the benefits of the Prior Learning program?

How many credits can I earn through Prior Learning?
All students are expected to complete the residency requirement of at least 15 credit hours of coursework at Clark State for an associate degree or 12 credit hours for a one-year certificate program. Credit equivalencies such as transfer and Prior Learning credit do not count toward the residency requirement.

A student is limited to receiving 50 percent total credits for a degree or certificate from Prior Learning. Additionally, credit equivalencies may not exceed one half of the required technical course credits for the degree, the one-year certificate, or the departmental certificate program being pursued unless recommended by the faculty and approved by the division dean or designee.

All Prior Learning credit is subject to time limitations for certain courses and/or majors. Limitations are determined by the profession/industry standards and the discretion of faculty, division dean or designee.

To apply for Prior Learning credit, the student must be admitted to Clark State with an eligible declared major.

Students may only apply for Prior Learning credit for courses directly applicable to curriculum requirements in the student’s declared certificate or degree program.

Will my Prior Learning credits transfer to another college?
A student who intends to use credit for Prior Learning in a course to meet Clark State degree requirements and intends to transfer to another institution should check the requirements of the receiving institution.

How much does Prior Learning cost?
The cost of a proficiency exam that requires a written only portion is $25/credit hour for up to a maximum total of $75 (for 3 or more credit hours). If the course requires a skills only exam, the cost is $50. The cost of a proficiency exam that requires a written and skills response is $25/credit hour for up to a maximum total of $75 (for 3 or more credit hours) and $50 for the skills portion of the exam.

How will Prior Learning be coded on my transcript?
Courses approved for credit through the proficiency examination process shall be reflected on a transcript through the notation of “PR.”

The Records and Registration Office posts the approved credit to the student’s academic record with a notation of “CR.”