Get Started with Academic Credit for Prior Learning

Academic Credit for Prior Learning is available to anyone who has knowledge and experience in a particular area that can be aligned with a specific class offered at LCC. Examples include: work and life experience, formal and informal education, training from in-state, out-of-state and foreign institutions, and military service.

In general, the process for earning Academic Credit for Prior Learning consists of applying for admission to Lower Columbia College, completing an application form, showing mastery of course objectives, and being evaluated by faculty. Upon approval, credits are added to your transcript.

You must also be a current or former student at Lower Columbia College.

If you are seeking college credit through means outside the traditional classroom, please see Alternative Options for Earning Academic Credit.

 Complete these steps to get started:

 

Step 1: Apply

If you plan to seek Academic Credit for Prior Learning, you must be a current or former student at Lower Columbia College.

  • Once your application has been approved you will receive an email containing your acceptance letter and Student ID number. Please allow up to four business days. You may need to check your "junk" email folder.

  • For help applying, contact the One-Stop Center.

Apply to Lower Columbia College

 

Step 2: Complete Application Form

 

Step 3: Show Mastery of Course Objectives

  • Request an appointment to meet with Credit for Prior Learning staff by emailing registration@lowercolumbia.edu. 

  • Staff will assist you in compiling required documentation showing mastery of course objectives. Documentation must be submitted within one academic year (four quarters) of applying for non-traditional credits.

  • Staff will also refer your documentation to the faculty evaluator (if applicable).

 

Step 4: Faculty Evaluation

The faculty evaluator will review your documentation, determine if credit is approved, and submit the signed form approving or denying credit to the Credit for Prior Learning office, where it will be maintained for four quarters (one academic year).Faculty evaluators may assess student learning in any method they deem appropriate. Assessment may include, but is not limited to:

  • Interview

  • Exam

  • Essay

  • Demonstration

  • Documentation of previous experience/training

 

Step 5: Receive your Results

Credit for Prior Learning staff will contact you with the results. If credit has been approved and after payment is made, the form and complete documentation will be submitted to the Registration Office for transcription. Forms received after the 6th week of each quarter will be processed the subsequent quarter.

The Registration Office will transcribe the credit and send the student an updated unofficial transcript.

Students may also obtain an unofficial transcript online free of charge or request an official transcript (fee required).

Contact Academic Credit for Prior Learning

Find out if you can earn your degree faster and save on tuition by inquiring about Academic Credit for Prior Learning. Visit in person or contact our staff by phone or email. Walk-ins welcome during regular business hours.

Program Coordinator

  Britney Deal
  bdeal@lowercolumbia.edu