Prior Learning Assessment
Earn credit for work and life experience
Not all college credit comes from a classroom
The skills you have picked up working in previous or current jobs matter more than you might think. Local employers are looking for individuals with unique combinations of skills across industries, and LCCC is a partner in preparing a ready workforce.
Complete the PLA interest form to begin the assessment process.
FastPathOhio helps you find out if PLA is right for you!
Get Started with our PLA Eligibility Wizard. This wizard helps you better understand if earning credit through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a good fit. It guides you through a few questions to let us know your level of experience and learning. If you would like more information please call for an appointment to speak with our PLA Coordinator at (440) 366-4076 as soon as possible.
What should you know about PLA credit?
Students must have an active/current LCCC account for any credit to be awarded. A student who can show that they have proficiency in a subject area by demonstrating that they have the knowledge and ability may be able to earn credit for a specific class at LCCC without enrolling in it. Up to 30 semester credit hours can be accumulated in prior learning assessments exclusive of transfer credits. **PLA credit does not count toward LCCC’s college residency requirements.
**Please be aware that prior learning credit awarded at Lorain County Community College may not be applicable to certificates or degrees at other colleges or universities. A student who intends to transfer to another college or university should consult with a transfer advisor at that institution concerning the transferability of LCCC prior learning credit.
How do we assess your learning?
Our Faculty will use one of the following assessment methods-Credit by Exam, Credential Review, or the development of a Portfolio using our FastPathOhio portal. Military (MTAGS) and new Industry Credentials (ITAGS) are also used to grant credit for your learning.
College Credit for Military Service and Training
You may be able to reduce the amount of time it takes to complete a certificate or degree by using the learning you received while in the military to earn college credit!
- Please order a copy of your Military Joint Services Transcript or Air Force/CCAF transcript by visiting their websites and providing a copy of your DD214 to the Enrollment Services and Records offices.
- Complete the “Transcript Evaluation Request Form” and specify what documents (DD214, JST) you would like evaluated for military as well as previous college transcripts. Turn this in at the Enrollment Services front desk.
- To determine how your training translates into course credit at LCCC, please follow the step-by-step process indicated through the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Military Transfer Assurance Guide website.
Learn more about our Veteran’s Services Department.
Credit by Exam
You may be able to earn college credit by participating in CLEP, Divisional Proficiency, or Professional Exams.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
LCCC awards credit for appropriate scores on the nationally-recognized CLEP exams. To receive credit for CLEP, submit your scores to the Registration and Records Office. There is no charge to post this credit. The College Board provides study and review resources for CLEP exams on their website. Test takers are encouraged to visit this site to review the study tips, test samples, study resources and exam day information.
Division Proficiency Exams (Test out)
Some LCCC courses are available for credit by way of an internal proficiency or “test out” procedure. Proficiency exams are designated as credit by exam on the transcript credit.
Professional Exams
If you have mastered a skill or competency through the completion of nationally recognized professional exams, you may be eligible for credit related to your LCCC degree or certificate requirements. Students may be eligible to receive credit for an LCCC course or group of courses related to the skills or competencies tested on the exam. Credit awards are based on the American Council of Education recommendations.
PLA Industry-Recognized Credentials
ITAG – College Credit for Industry Credentials
Industry-Recognized Credential Transfer Assurance Guides (ITAGs) are a statewide transfer program that guarantees college credit when you earn an industry-recognized credential.
Simply by earning any of the industry certifications listed below, you automatically qualify for credit in the related LCCC credit course. And that credit can be used to pursue a degree or certificate in your field.
Portfolio Evaluation
The development and evaluation of a PLA Portfolio is a means of converting knowledge or expertise into college credits. Credits may be awarded if LEARNING corresponds directly to a course currently offered at LCCC. The required documentation varies from course to course but may include samples of your work, an essay explaining your experience and knowledge or certificates showing successful completion of workshops or seminars. When you pursue PLA Portfolio credit, LCCC will help guide you through the process. Faculty and staff members will assist you with determining which courses best fit your skills and help you develop your portfolio. Once completed the portfolio will be reviewed to determine what credit(s) have been granted.
Lorain County Community College offers a free e-Portfolio path to showcase your learning. To learn more please visit Fast Path Ohio.
IT Professionals
Are you already an IT professional? Convert your IT qualifications, experience and professional certifications to college credit with our Validate IT courses.
High School Opportunities
Take advantage of these opportunities to earn credit while still in high school.
Advanced Placement (AP)
LCCC awards credit for appropriate scores on nationally-recognized Advanced Placement (AP) exams. To receive credit for AP, submit your scores to the Registration and Records office for evaluation. There is no charge for the posting of Advanced Placement Credit.
College Credit Plus
The College Credit Plus Program offers a unique opportunity for students to enhance and further their educational and career objectives while still in high school. CCP students can earn college and high school credit concurrently, accelerating their college careers at no cost. Credits are easily transferable to public and private universities nationwide.
Tech Prep Agreements
College Tech Prep is a program of study that begins in a student’s junior year of high school or Career Center, and continues at Lorain County Community College. College Tech Prep allows students to earn credits toward their college degree while they’re attending high school.
Additional Resources
Find out more information on Internships and co-ops as well as job search assistance available to you!
Complete the PLA interest form to begin the assessment process. In addition, please visit Fast Path Ohio for more information on how to begin using a FREE e-portfolio!
If you have any questions, please contact Carrie Delaney, PLA Coordinator at 440-366-4076.