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 and occupation transcripts
• Submit current, valid industry certifications or licenses
• Submit transcripts from training completed through CNM Ingenuity, Inc. (Non-credit to Credit)
• Submit appropriate documentation to earn credit for training through one of our Community Partners.

Prove It:

• Build an e-portfolio of your experiential learning and submit it for Portfolio Assessment

If your prior learning is not listed, you may submit a Request for Evaluation of Prior Learning to askgrad@cnm.edu, who will forward your request to the appropriate academic school(s) to evaluate your learning and determine if credit can be granted. 

Things to Consider When Requesting CPL

Eligibility

In order to apply for and receive CPL, you must be an active CNM certificate or degree seeking student.

Financial Aid

Financial aid does not cover the costs of CPL. However, financial aid and VA benefits may be affected by credit hours awarded through CPL methods. Speak with a Financial Aid representative to find out how credit earned through the CPL Program may affect your award.

Acceptance of CPL Awards at Other Institutions

CPL is granted only for the purpose of satisfying CNM graduation requirements. These credits may not be accepted at other colleges. Students are responsible for contacting the institution to which they intend to transfer to determine that institution’s policy on accepting CPL awarded at CNM.

Credit for Prior Learning Policy

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

Student CPL Handbook

Review the CNM Student CPL Handbook for more information.