Credit for Prior Learning

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a way for students to gain credits towards their degree by assessing previous learning experiences that align with college-level learning. UCNJ awards credits for prior learning where there is documented evidence that the student has mastered course learning outcomes.

Student Checklists

Each type of prior learning is defined below. The process for approval may differ for each type of activity. Prior learning is defined as a student having the ability to be awarded credits in their program of study through the following activities or processes:

  • Challenge Exams

    Challenge Exams

    The steps below outline the process for requesting credit prior learning by completing a Challenge Exam.

    Student Packet Checklist

    Step 1.

    Contact the academic division (see email below) to confirm the availability of a Challenge Exam for the requested course. Student will work with the academic division to schedule a date and time to complete the Challenge Exam.

    Step 2.

    Meet with an academic advisor to complete Part I of the Credit for Prior Learning: Challenge Exam form after the Challenge Exam date and time is scheduled.

    Step 3.

    Submit the Credit for Prior Learning: Challenge Exam form and exam confirmation email from the academic division to pla@js-ayds.com

    Step 4.

    Complete the Challenge Exam.

    Step 5.

    UCNJ reviews the Challenge Exam results and potential course equivalency.

    Step 6.

    Student is notified of completion of PLA review through email from pla@js-ayds.com.

  • Licensures/Government Certificates

    Licensures/Government Certificates

    The steps below outline the process for requesting credit prior learning based on an earned licensure or government certification.

    Student Packet Checklist

    Step 1.

    Meet with an academic advisor to complete Part I of the Credit for Prior Learning: Licensure/Government Certification form.

    Step 2.

    Obtain a copy of approved license or government certification from awarding entity.

    Step 3.

    Complete Part II of the Credit for Prior Learning: Licensure/Government Certification form.

    Step 4.

    Submit the Credit for Prior Learning: Licensure/Government Certification form and copy of approved license or government certification to pla@js-ayds.com

    Step 5.

    UCNJ reviews the submitted packet and potential course equivalency

    Step 6.

    Student is notified of completion of PLA review through email from pla@js-ayds.com

  • Portfolios

    Portfolios

    The steps below outline the process for requesting credit prior learning by submitting a portfolio documenting prior work experience for review.

    Student Packet Checklist

    Step 1.

    Review the Prior Learning Assessment Portfolio (PLA) Guidelines. Contact pla@js-ayds.com with any questions regarding the guidelines.

    • Prior Learning Assessment Portfolio (PLA) Guidelines

    Step 2.

    Develop the Portfolio with required items as described in the PLA Guidelines.

    • Cover Page
    • Table of Contents
    • Credit Statement
    • Course Master Syllabus
    • Description of Professional Experience
    • Course Learning Outcomes Competency Grid
    • Appendices

    Step 3.

    Submit the complete PLA Portfolio packet to pla@js-ayds.com

    Step 4.

    UCNJ reviews the submitted packet and potential course equivalency

    Step 5.

    Student is notified of completion of PLA review through email from pla@js-ayds.com

  • Other PLA Models

    Other PLA Models

    The steps below outline the process for requesting credit prior learning based on ACE recommendation, industry-valued credential(s), industry exams or certifications, or Continuing Education and Workforce Development certificate of completion.

    Student Packet Checklist

    Step 1.

    Meet with an academic advisor to complete Part I of the Credit for Prior Learning: Other PLA Models form.

    Step 2.

    Obtain a copy of the relevant documentation to verify completion of the prior learning credential.

    Step 3.

    Complete Part II of the Credit for Prior Learning: Other PLA Models form.

    Step 4.

    Submit the Credit for Prior Learning: Other PLA Models form and copy of supporting documentation to pla@js-ayds.com

    Step 5.

    UCNJ reviews the submitted packet and potential course equivalency.

    Step 6.

    Student is notified of completion of PLA review through email from pla@js-ayds.com

PLA Documents

Student Documents

Faculty Documents

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