Experience counts, so let’s see if you can get credit for it!
Are you interested in reducing the number of classes you take; saving money on your classes and shortening the time to your degree completion?
If you answered yes, join us for an INFO Session on Credit for Prior Learning. Learn the next steps to take to see if you qualify to earn college credit for your equivalent life and work experience.
- When: Every other week beginning June 23rd for the summer.
- Time: Wednesday (11am-noon) and Thursday (5:30-6:30pm)
- Location: Zoom Meeting
To register for a session or get more information, please contact Cathy Ferguson, Credit for Prior Learning Specialist at 540-857-6825 or by email at cplinfo@virginiawestern.edu.
Credit for Prior Learning is the process of awarding a student credit for competency in subject matter that has been achieved through previous academic study or occupational experience. This may include, but is not limited to, credit for external advanced placement such as the Advanced Placement Program (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), International Baccalaureate (IB), credit for non-traditional professional certifications, credit for educational/training programs (military, industry, state and federal government), credit for Cambridge Advanced (A/AS) examinations with scores of C or better and portfolio assessment.
Click here to download the Credit for Prior Learning booklet. (PDF)
Credit for Prior Learning policies at Virginia Western are consistent with the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) principles and with Virginia Community College System (VCCS) policy.
Virginia Western Community College may award credit for the following competencies:
- AP (Advanced Placement)
- CAP (Certified Administrative Professional)
- CLEP (College Level Examination Program)
- Early Childhood Development Exemption Credit
- First Aid and CPR Certificates
- IBO (International Baccalaureate)
- Military Training
- Police Academies
- Previous Completion Credit (Experiential Learning/Work Experience)
- Transfer Credit from Post-Secondary Institutions
General Information
Credit awarded for CLEP, AP, departmental challenge exams, and credit for work experience may satisfy VWCC program of study requirements, but will not necessarily transfer to another institution. Students desiring to transfer credit awarded via these methods should contact their four-year college of interest to determine its policy. However, appropriate credit, when awarded, will be listed on the student’s official VWCC transcript.
Students desiring to earn college credit through one of the above Credit for Prior Learning methods can request an appointment with an advisor. Click here to request an appointment with an advisor.