Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Prior learning, sometimes called “experiential learning” is knowledge obtained outside the typical university setting. The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) defines prior learning as the assessment and award of credit for learning and knowledge students acquire while living their lives: working, participating in employer training programs, serving in the military, studying independently, volunteering or doing community service, and studying open source courseware. Credit for prior learning may be granted for verifiable learning gained through experience, but not for the experience itself.
Wilmington University allows, through any combination of PLA, including credits from alternative providers, a maximum of 75 undergraduate semester credit hours to apply toward a bachelor’s degree. Students must meet program, upper level, and residency requirements for PLA credit to apply. Associate degree programs allow a maximum of 15 undergraduate semester credit hours through any combination of PLA. Students pursuing an associate degree must meet program and residency requirements for PLA credit to apply.
PLA credit may have implications on student financial aid; as such students are encouraged to coordinate with their student financial aid advisor to avoid any impacts on financial awards or eligibility.
Students granted PLA credit are not guaranteed that their credit will transfer to another higher education institution. Students are encouraged to check the policies at the intended transfer institution prior to the completion of PLA.
NOTE: Unless otherwise indicated, PLA credit is recognized as residency credits.
Additional information on PLA can be found on the University web site: http://www.wilmu.edu/coel/credit-for-pl.aspx or by contacting your Academic Advisor.
The following subsections provide descriptions of the approved PLA sources.