What is Prior Learning?
 During the course of their career, adults often develop specialized skills and knowledge that are equivalent to college coursework. University College at Adelphi has developed the Prior Learning evaluation process as a way for adult students to earn academic credit for knowledge and experience gained outside of a traditional classroom. In the broadest sense, Prior Learning includes all college-level learning before admission to Adelphi. This includes formal learning gained through successful completion of coursework sponsored by the military and government agencies; it also includes knowledge obtained through career experience, volunteer work, the utilization of artistic abilities, and proficiency in computers and foreign language (this includes sign language). By utilizing University College’s Prior Learning Credit Program you can complete your college degree faster and at less expense.
The most important thought to keep in mind about Prior Learning is that credit is not awarded for experiences (no matter how sophisticated) but for the student's ability to demonstrate that these experiences are college-level. That is, students must demonstrate, with the guidance of the faculty evaluators, they possess knowledge reflected in the coursework taught at Adelphi.
Examples of Prior Learning:
The following are some examples of life experiences that have earned our students Prior Learning credit:
Volunteer Work
A student had volunteered at a therapeutic horseback riding facility which serves adults and children with autism, Down’s syndrome and cerebral palsy. This student’s volunteer position included training in Hippotherapy, a form of physical and occupational therapy utilizing equine movement. The student met with an evaluator from the Social Work department and was given 8 credits.
Starting/Owning A Business
A student who had been co-owner of a bakery had substantial experience managing employees, as well as doing a lot of work in sales and public relations. The student met with a faculty evaluator, who determined her experience was equivalent to classes in Communication, Conflict Management and Creative Problem Solving. This student earned 12 credits through Prior Learning.
Professional Training
A student had enrolled in an Advanced Leadership training program while working for the US Postal Service. The training program covered material that was equivalent to classes in management, organizational behavior, and managerial finance and allowed the student to earn 12 credits through Prior Learning.
Foreign Language Skills
Proficiency in a foreign language can earn students up to 18 credits. Students’ language proficiency is evaluated by an oral and written test administered by a faculty member from the foreign language department.
Please read the Prior Learning FAQ for more information and examples.
Contact
For additional information, please contact:
University College
p - 516.877.3412
e - ucinfo@adelphi.edu
Hagedorn Hall, Room 201
Adelphi University
Garden City, NY 11530
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