Alternate Ways to Earn Credit

Credit by Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Students may obtain credit for college-level learning through a variety of ways at Northwest University. The term Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) covers college-level learning that occurs both in and outside of an academic setting. Northwest University follows the standards for assessment of college-level learning as established by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). PLA covers learning documented by the Portfolio process, Certified Prior Learning (CPL) as determined by national accrediting agencies, and credit obtained through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) or the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) exams.

Portfolio: Students must consult with the LEAP Director of Prior Learning Assessment to develop a Portfolio that is designed to document the college-level learning they have acquired in a non-academic setting.
CLEP/DANTES: See the CLEP/DANTES Equivalency Chart to determine which exams meet Northwest University course requirements: Course Transfer Guide (available through http://eagle.northwestu.edu/registrar).
Certified Prior Learning (CPL): Nationally recognized licenses, certificates or on-the-job training may qualify for credit.

Credit by Advanced Placement (AP)

Students who have completed college-level studies in high school under the Advanced Placement Program may be granted credit in comparable college courses upon enrollment. Official Advanced Placement exam results should be sent to the Registrar’s Office for evaluation.

Credit by CLEP and DANTES

Students may utilize the CPL process and apply credit from CLEP and DANTES to their degree requirements. Students may transfer, upon admission to the University, the CLEP general examinations in the humanities, mathematics, sciences and social sciences. Students who believe they have advanced levels of knowledge equivalent to course offerings may contact the Registrar’s Office for details concerning these tests. Not more than a total of 30 credits of PLA, ACE (American Council on Education), IB, AP, military, CPL, portfolio, CLEP and DANTES can be applied to any degree. All credits earned through CLEP and DANTES must be completed prior to the start of the junior year. Transfer students entering with junior standing will be allowed one semester to earn CLEP and DANTES credits.

Other Standardized Proficiency Examinations

Standardized tests which can be used to show proficiency in areas that are not covered by AP, CLEP, and DANTES may be available.

Departmental Exams

A formally admitted student may challenge certain college courses by examination without actually registering in the courses. The student is allowed only one opportunity to qualify for credit by examination in any given course. Credit by examination may not be counted toward the satisfaction of the residence requirement. Special fees are charged.

Continuing Education Unit (CEU)

The University awards the Continuing Education Unit to adults who participate in noncredit continuing education activities administered by the University. CEUs are not to be equated with the college credits applicable toward a degree. One CEU is equal to ten contact hours of participation in an organized continuing education experience. CEU credit is placed on the National Registry for Continuing Education and is useful where they may be prescribed by employment or professional training requirements.