Menu

School of Continuing Studies

  1. Whitworth University
  2. School of Continuing Studies
  3. Transfer Information
  4. Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for Prior Learning

We value the learning you have done outside of the traditional classroom. With advisors by your side every step of the way, we'll do our best to get you every credit you've earned with the knowledge you already have. Credits can be earned through low-cost subject tests, certifications, and other professional training and learning you've already obtained.

CLEP/DSST Subject Tests

Whitworth has a test center for administering College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DANTES Standardized Subject Tests (DSST) exams, which provide an avenue for you to complete your degree sooner and avoid repeating material you've already learned. For around $100 per exam, CLEP and DSST allow you to earn college credits by passing individual subject exams. To find a complete list of subject exams offered, visit one of these sites:

For more information or to schedule a CLEP or DSST exam at Whitworth, please call us at 509.777.3222.

American Council of Education (ACE) Credits

Many certifications, exams, or courses (i.e. T-Mobile Associate Expert training, Google certifications, Microsoft exams, insurance courses) have been assessed for academic credit through the American Council of Education (ACE). You can search the ACE National Guide for extra-institutional experiences you have completed and order official transcripts to be assessed for transfer credit.

Prior Learning Portfolio

In addition to tests for credit and ACE-evaluated credits, you may earn up to 31 semester credits toward your degree through a portfolio assessment of professional trainings, certificates, courses, or licenses. Credit is awarded based on the learning that resulted from the prior experience, not from the experience itself. 

The evaluation process for granting credit for experience is called the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). Credits earned will be counted as lower division electives and cannot replace shared curriculum courses or required courses in the major. These credits fall in the alternative credit category.

Whitworth's School of Continuing Studies has identified and pre-assessed many certificates and licenses for elective credit. Students must be enrolled in a School of Continuing Studies program to receive pre-assessed prior learning credits.

Pre-Assessed Prior Learning List

To be eligible to receive the credit, the credential must be active (not expired). No additional fees will be collected for pre-assessed certificates/licenses. Contact your advisor for more information on submission of documentation.

Any professional certificate or license not listed above may be eligible to be assessed for credit through the portfolio process. Additional fees may apply. Contact your advisor for more information.