Credit for Prior Learning

The credit for prior learning program at Baptist College of Health Sciences provides working professionals the opportunity to receive academic credit for learning-based outcomes from past work or professional experiences. It is important to consider that learning doesn’t just occur in the classroom, but can also be derived out of work/professional experiences that have occurred in many different types of settings. However, Baptist College of Health Sciences does not award credit for experience alone; learning must have occurred and be properly documented and assessed.

The following questions might help you in determining whether you would be successful in applying for credit for prior learning:

• Do you have five or more years of experience in one field?
• In your work in your field have you been exposed to a broad range of experiences?
• Do you usually feel in control of your own successes and failures?
• Are you willing to assume new roles and responsibilities?
• Do you keep abreast of changes in your profession by reading recent publications and by enrolling in credit or non-credit courses?
• Are you involved or been involved in volunteer activities where you use your professional skills?
• Do you formally and informally network with others in your field?

If you answered, “YES,” to most of the questions, then you should investigate the process for credit for prior learning and talk with your appropriate academic advisor.