We believe there is nobility in completing one’s education, particularly when one is managing the pressures and constraints of adult life.
As an Upper Division University, Athens State celebrates the resolve of the adult learner. After all, it takes courage, and then some, to balance finishing your degree with work and family life.
That’s why we offer Adult Learner Services. We assist working adults with finishing their degrees by applying their experience and knowledge as college credit.
You’ve worked hard, and we recognize that some of your knowledge and experience may be at the college level. Adult Learner Services at Athens State University provides a nationally recognized method of allowing college credit for learning that may have been attained outside the classroom through work, seminars, training programs, military education, and certification programs. A Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is conducted to provide a better understanding of how this prior learning and experience is equivalent to the skills and objectives of academic courses.
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Prior Learning Assessment is a process that evaluates knowledge and learning gained outside the classroom. It includes employment, certifications, military training/service, civic activities, and volunteer service. Students are guided through this process during their first semester in the ADP 301 Adult Degree Practice & Theory course.
If you have the knowledge you have gained from your experiences, certifications, & training, Adult Learner Services can provide an efficient, cost-effective, and customized pathway to earn your degree.
Time & Money
All degrees are accredited and affordable, with the lowest tuition rates in the state. Athens State University is simply the smart way to go to college.
Custom Options
Your experience is unique. Adult Learner Services will assist you by offering individual counseling to fit your schedule and goals.
Certificates, Licenses, and Training
We want to help you reach the finish line as quickly as possible, which means putting your existing knowledge and prior training to work for you.
Examples of Certifications/Training Recognized
| Certification/License/Training | Hours/Classes awarded |
| CPA-Certified Public Accountant | 6 hours: graduate level |
| Criminal Justice – APOST & additional training-Huntsville Police Department | up to 15 hrs. lower level electives & 6-9 hrs. UL |
| IDP-APOST & additional training-Huntsville Police Department | up to 15 hrs. lower level electives & 6 hrs. UL electives |
| Psychology – APOST & additional training-Huntsville Police Department | up to 15 hrs. lower level electives & up to 6 hrs. UL Psychology electives |
| RBT-Registered Behavioral Technician | 6 hours: PS425 & PS336 |
| Insurance License | 3 hours: FIN355 |
| Microsoft Office Certifications | up to 12 hours of lower level credit |
| OSHA30 General Industry Certificate | 3 hours: OHSM373 Hazard Analytics & Regulatory Compliance |
| OSHA30 Constructional Industry Certificate | 3 hours: OHSM422 Safety Training & Development |
| PMP Certification | 12 hours Project Mgmt |
| Huntsville Hospital Radiologic Technology | 21 hours: lower level |
| Real Estate License | 3 hours: FIN356 |
| Board Certified Safety Professional | 2 hours: MG462 |
| CompTIA Security + | 6 hours: MCO410 or ISM classes |
| SHRM Certification | 9 hours: MG349,410,449 |
| Six Sigma Green or Black Belt | 9 hours: MG421,422,423 |
| Six Sigma White Belt | 3 hours: MG421 |
| Six Sigma Yellow Belt | 6 hours: MG421 & MG422 |
How can we help put your knowledge and training to work for you?
We often work with students in a variety of majors and disciplines find ways to satisfy elective credit by using prior learning and certifications. Contact us to see if you will benefit from the services we offer thru the Adult Learner Services Office.
How do I get started?
We understand that returning to school can be intimidating and confusing, so we’re here to help you every step of the way. Get started today by completing our contact form. We’ll be in touch as soon as possible to discuss how Adult Learner Services can help you earn your degree.
Felicia Mucci
Director, Adult Learner Services Office- Phone:256-233-8281 Phone:256-233-8281
- Email:Felicia.Mucci@athens.edu
- Department:Adult Learner Services Office
- Office:
Chasteen Hall
Kayla Kohanek-Tankersley
Adult Learner Services Office Advisor- Phone:256-233-8280 Phone:256-233-8280
- Email:Kayla.Kohanek-Tankersley@athens.edu
- Department:Adult Learner Services Office
- Office:
Chasteen Hall
