If you’re an adult learner looking for a faster, more cost-effective way to finish your degree online, Athens State University’s Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program is here to help. With guidance from our Adult Learner Services Office, you can turn your previous experience into college credit to get you closer to your degree.
What Is the Prior Learning Assessment?
Athens State’s PLA program is a nationally recognized way to evaluate and award college credit for non-traditional learning experiences.
Designed specifically with adult learners in mind, the PLA process allows you to earn college credit for the knowledge and skills you’ve gained through previous work experience, military training, professional certifications, and more — saving you time and money as you work toward your degree.
Whether you’ve attended professional training seminars, completed certification programs, or gained valuable knowledge through your career, the PLA program ensures that your hard work doesn’t go unrecognized.
How Does the PLA Process Work?
Our Adult Learner Services Office offers multiple methods to assess your prior learning, including:
- Military Training and Workforce Education: Through partnerships with the American Council on Education (ACE), Athens State evaluates military training and workforce education programs to determine their credit equivalency to college courses.
- Nationally Recognized Examinations: You can earn credit by taking exams such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST).
- Portfolio Assessment: This option allows you to earn college credit by compiling a detailed portfolio showcasing your experiences and knowledge acquired outside of the traditional academic environment.
- Course-Specific Challenge Exams: For certain courses, Athens State faculty and department chair may create challenge exams to assess your competency and ensure that your knowledge meets the specific requirements of the course.
Why Choose Athens State’s PLA Program?
By eliminating duplicated efforts, you’ll be able to transition smoothly into your selected program and gain more value with your degree by focusing on new experiences that apply to your chosen field.
Other benefits of Athens State’s PLA program include:
- Saving Time and Money: By leveraging your prior learning, you can significantly reduce the number of courses you need to take, cutting down on tuition costs and time spent in school.
- Flexible and Personalized for You: The PLA process is tailored to your unique background and experiences. While results vary based on individual circumstances, every effort is made to help you maximize your credit potential.
- A Streamlined Path to Graduation: By earning credit for your existing knowledge, you’ll move closer to completing your degree and advancing your career.
Start Your Journey Today
If you’re ready to finish your degree online, Athens State University’s Prior Learning Assessment program could be the key to quickly unlocking your potential.
Your path to college graduation is closer than you think! Explore our Adult Learner Services Office for more details about the PLA process or contact an advisor to discuss how PLA can work for you.
