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 take courses through online course delivery modules such as Straighterline, Coursera, Sophia Learning, etc. may be able to receive up to 15 transfer credits towards their degree upon admission. Official transcripts must include the American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendation on them.

Department Chairs and Program Directors may approve substitutions towards stated degree requirements during advising. A course substitution form must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Courses taken in English, mathematics, or have an ACE recommendation of upper-level will be accepted as general electives only and not subject to substitution.

Students who are currently enrolled may transfer in up to 9 credits from online credit programs. These credits are considered part of the College’s maximum requirement of 15 credits upon matriculation to the College, and will require the advanced approval of their department chair and the Office of the Registrar before courses are taken. Students who do not seek pre-approval for these courses will not be permitted to transfer them into the College.

Any and all credits accepted for transfer are subject to the College’s overall transfer of credit policies. Please reference the transfer of credit policy to be familiar with requirements, limitations, and expectations.

Albertus Magnus College may require students to complete an assessment of course outcomes in order to officially accept the transfer credit. This may include and is not limited to: a final exam, final project, or portfolio to ensure that the student has obtained the appropriate breadth of content knowledge to be successful in their chosen field of 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.