Credit for Prior Learning

CNM recognizes that students enter college from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, some of which may involve the equivalent of college-level learning. CNM is committed to providing new paths for students so that they can proceed with their pursuit of an educational credential without duplication of courses or loss of potential credit.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), also known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), describes several methods used by CNM to assess college-level learning that a student obtained outside of the Institution.

CNM’s CPL Program strives for an appropriate balance of consistency, flexibility, rigor, and academic program integrity and uses a course-equivalency model to determine the award of credit.

Quick Reference Guide

Credit for Prior Learning Options

There are three ways for you to show us that your knowledge is college-level in order to earn credit towards your program: Pass it, Provide it, or Prove it.

Pass It:

• Take and pass a Standardized Exam
• Take and pass a Challenge Exam

Provide It:

• Submit military training transcripts
• Submit current, valid industry certifications or licenses
• Submit transcripts from training completed through CNM Ingenuity, Inc. (Non-credit to Credit)

Prove It:

• Build a portfolio of your experiential learning and submit it for Portfolio Assessment - coming soon!

Student CPL Handbook

Please see the CNM Student CPL Handbook for additional details on requesting credit towards your program.

CPL Quick Reference Guide

Are you still unsure which method is appropriate for you? Check out the CNM CPL Quick Reference Guide. 

Credit for Prior Learning Policy

To find out more about credit for prior learning at CNM, see the CPL Policy.