* The institution: Some universities and colleges have robust CPL programs, while others offer limited options or none at all. Community colleges are often more open to awarding credit for life and work experience.
* The degree program: A more technical program might be less likely to grant credit for general work experience than a liberal arts program. The relevance of the experience to the degree is key.
* The type of work experience: The experience needs to be demonstrably relevant and significant. Simply having worked for a certain number of years isn't enough; evidence of skills and knowledge acquired must be provided.
* The method of assessment: This could involve portfolio review, examinations, interviews, or a combination of methods to verify the claimed skills and knowledge.
How to find these programs:
1. Directly Contact Universities: Search for universities or colleges offering programs in your area of interest. Then, contact their admissions or registrar's office and specifically inquire about their Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) or Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) policies. Ask about their acceptance criteria for work experience.
2. Search for "Prior Learning Assessment" or "Credit for Prior Learning": Use these keywords when searching online, along with your area of study.
3. Check with Professional Organizations: Some professional organizations offer pathways to degree completion that incorporate work experience.
4. Explore Alternative Accreditation Bodies: Some alternative accreditation bodies may be more flexible in their acceptance of work experience for credit. However, always verify the accreditation's legitimacy and its acceptance by other institutions if you plan to transfer credits.
Important Considerations:
* Documentation is crucial: You'll need thorough documentation of your work experience, including job descriptions, performance reviews, letters of recommendation, and potentially samples of your work.
* The process can take time: Getting credit for prior learning is not always a quick process. Be prepared to spend time gathering documentation and completing assessments.
* Not all work experience qualifies: The experience must demonstrably meet the learning outcomes of the courses for which credit is sought.
In short, while many accredited programs offer credit for work experience, it's essential to research individual institutions and programs to understand their specific policies and requirements. Don't assume credit will automatically be granted; proactive inquiry and careful documentation are vital.