William Paterson University recognizes that not all learning has resulted from the traditional classroom. We strive to work with students who come to us with a vast array of work experience and training through the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). PLA provides the student with the opportunity to earn credit for learning outside of the confines of a traditional classroom, but also allows the learner to illustrate what they know through the construction of a professional, guided portfolio assembly. This path may save students both time and money as they work toward their degree.
The Center is here for your support and guidance as you navigate your academic journey to degree completion.
You can build upon your professional experience to earn additional credits toward your degree through each of the following methods of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA):
- Portfolio Assessment – Students can complete a portfolio for assessment of prior, non-college experience that may equate to college credit. The portfolio process might be right for you if you have developed college-level knowledge, skills, and abilities, and are able to demonstrate that these skills meet the learning objectives of an academic course without having had formal training or college credit in the area. Details about Portfolio Assessment.
- Credit by Examination – Students can demonstrate their knowledge and gain credit through standardized national exams such as the CLEP, AP, IB, TECEP, CPEP, departmental challenge examinations, and credits through transfer (to a maximum of 90).
- Military Credits – Students can earn degree credit for military training and experience by providing transcripts from ACE, CCAF, AART, JST, SMART, and the U.S. Coast Guard Institute. They will need to provide the Registrar’s office or the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs with their official transcripts, which can be ordered through Joint Services Transcript (JST), along with a copy of their DD214 (military discharge document).
- Course Challenge Exams – These exams are developed by departments for students wishing to “test out” of a course by demonstrating competency in course learning outcomes.
- Professional Training – Students may earn credit for professional training programs they have completed and for which they hold documentation of successful completion and learning outcomes. Professional training examples include but are not limited to CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, CCNA certification, Human Resource Management (SHRM/PHR/SPHR), Project Management certification, Supply Chain Management certification, Digital Marketing certification, Certified Medical Assistant CCMA, and Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT).
Learn more about Prior Learning Assessments.
If you have any questions email [email protected] or call 973-720-3035 or 973-720-2732.
