Credit for Prior Learning

Documented learning, not experience, is the basis for prior learning credit. The credits must fit appropriately into a degree program. Albertus Magnus College accepts up to 21 credits for prior learning towards an A.A./A.S. and up to 45 credits for B.A/B.S.

Advanced Placement

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program offers college-level courses and exams that students can take in high school. Students can earn college credit if they satisfactorily pass the Advanced Placement examination with a score of 3 or above. AP credits may be used to fulfill general education requirements, serve as prerequisites for other courses or count towards major credit (upon approval and depending on the major).  Credit will not be awarded for any AP exam that duplicates the content of a college course for which a student has already received credit. These credits do not contribute to a student’s undergraduate GPA.

Students should have their official score report sent to the Office of the Registrar (using college code 3001) for evaluation. 

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) provides an opportunity for students to obtain academic credit by obtaining a satisfactory score on nationally standardized examinations prepared by the Educational Testing Service.  CLEP credits may be used to fulfill general education requirements, serve as prerequisites for other courses or count towards major credit (upon approval and depending on the major).  Credit will not be awarded for any CLEP exam that duplicates the content of a college course for which a student has already received credit. These credits do not contribute to a student’s undergraduate GPA. Contact the Office of the Registrar for a list of minimum scores acceptable for academic credit at Albertus for the current catalog year.

Students should have their official score report sent to the Office of the Registrar (using college code 3001) for evaluation. 

Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)

This credit by exam program offers students the opportunity to use their knowledge acquired outside of the classroom to accomplish their educational goals. While the exams are funded for active-duty military, DSST exams are not just for those in the military. Adult learners, homeschooled students, and military veterans are also eligible to earn college credits through DSST.  Students can visit DSST exams to review offered exams, test prep, and locate a test center. 

DSST credits may be used to fulfill general education requirements, serve as prerequisites for other courses or count towards major credit (upon approval and depending on the major).  Credit will not be awarded for DSST tests that duplicate the content of a college course for which a student has already received credit. These credits do not contribute to a student’s undergraduate GPA. Contact the Office of the Registrar for a list of minimum scores acceptable for academic credit at Albertus for the current catalog year.

Students should have their official score report sent to the Office of the Registrar (using college code 9240) for evaluation. 

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Students who completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or took individual International Baccalaureate (IB) exams at the Standard Level (SL) Higher Level (HL) at their high school/secondary school should have their official score report sent to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation.

IB credits may be used to fulfill general education requirements, serve as prerequisites for other courses or count towards major credit (upon approval and depending on the major).  Credit will not be awarded for IB tests that duplicate the content of a college course for which a student has already received credit. These credits do not contribute to a student’s undergraduate GPA. Contact the Office of the Registrar for a list of minimum scores acceptable for academic credit at Albertus for the current catalog year.

Military Experience

Credit for military experience is determined according to American Council on Education (ACE) military guidelines. These credit recommendations appear on the service member’s Joint Services Transcript. Students with military experience should have their official transcript sent to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation. 

Non-Collegiate Coursework and Programs

Students who complete coursework through non-collegiate educational providers, alternative learning platforms, industry-recognized training programs, or other learning experiences that carry a credit recommendation from a recognized credit evaluation organization may be eligible to receive up to 15 credits through the College’s Credit for Prior Learning process. Official documentation must include the American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendation on them.

Department Chairs or Program Directors may approve the application of approved credits toward specific degree requirements. Any approved course substitutions must be documented and submitted to the Office of the Registrar.

Students who are currently enrolled at the College may apply up to 9 credits earned through approved non-collegiate coursework toward their degree. These credits count toward the College’s maximum allowance of 15 credits awarded through non-collegiate learning. Prior written approval from the appropriate Department Chair and the Office of the Registrar is required before beginning such coursework. Credits earned without prior approval may not be accepted.

All credits awarded through non-collegiate coursework are subject to the College’s transfer credit and Credit for Prior Learning policies, including any applicable limitations, residency requirements, and degree requirements.

The College reserves the right to require additional assessment of learning outcomes before awarding credit. Such assessments may include, but are not limited to, examinations, projects, portfolios, demonstrations of competency, or other methods deemed appropriate to verify college-level learning and readiness for continued study.

Industry Credentials

Albertus Magnus College may award credit for prior learning credit for licenses, certifications and training that have been evaluated by the American Council on Education (ACE) and/or through specific academic programs offered at the College.

Portfolio Assessment

Albertus Magnus College will accept credit for prior learning demonstrated through the development of a portfolio evaluated by Charter Oak State College.