Graduate Credit for Prior Learning

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA/CPL) recognizes graduate-level learning gained outside accredited postsecondary education through professional, work, or life experience. Credit may apply toward a graduate degree or certificate but does not satisfy the University residency requirement.

Students seeking graduate CPL must first contact the Adult & Prior Learning Assessment Office for guidance on discipline applicability, requirements, and the portfolio process.

Portfolio Requirements

To request graduate CPL through portfolio review, students must:

1. Submit a portfolio demonstrating mastery of the graduate-level learning outcomes and objectives for the CSU Pueblo course(s) within a single prefix.
2. Submit a separate portfolio for each prefix.
3. A maximum of six graduate credit hours may be awarded through CPL.
4. Pay the non-refundable $250 fee per portfolio (regardless of credit awarded).

Eligibility Requirements

A student must meet all of the following:

1. The student is degree-seeking in a CSU Pueblo graduate program.
2. The student is currently enrolled in the current academic term.
3. The student is in good academic standing at the time the portfolio is submitted.
4. The learning being documented occurred within 12 years of the student’s expected graduation date.
5. The student meets all discipline-specific requirements established by the graduate program.

Posting of Credit

1. Each portfolio will be reviewed by a faculty evaluator designated by the academic department chair or graduate program director, with appeal rights to the dean.
2. Approved portfolios will be submitted to the Registrar’s Office, and the CPL credit will be posted at the end of the term in which it is approved.

Industry Agreements

CSU Pueblo maintains industry agreements for certain certifications; these may follow a different fee structure.