Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is college credit awarded for validated college-level skills and knowledge gained outside of a college classroom. Students’ knowledge and skills might be gained through experiences such as:
- Military training
- Industry training
- State/federal government training
- Apprenticeships, internships, work-based learning, or other industry-based experiential learning
- Validated volunteer and civic activities (e.g. Peace Corps)
This CPL definition does not include knowledge and skills already assessed and awarded credit through formal education at regionally accredited in-state and out-of-state institutions.
Check out our Credit for Prior Learning student testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions
CPL can help you save time and money on your educational path. Students can now get credit for a course instead of just waiving a prerequisite.
Students who hold industry credentials and certifications are graduates of service academies were trained for military occupations, or have work experience that can be demonstrated through an exam or portfolio review may qualify for credit for prior learning.
Each CPL eligible course will have different methods of assessment. These methods include:
- Military Transcript
- Credit by Exam
- Portfolio Review
- Industry Certification/Accreditation or License
- AP, IB, CLEP (refer to the Palomar Articulation webpage for more information)
Check out our CPL Course List!
If you have prior learning experience that you feel would qualify for CPL, but you don't see the discipline or course in our list, please email cpl@palomar.edu
We are still building our CPL database and will reach out to our faculty on your behalf to see if CPL is a good fit!
There is no cost for CPL.
Contact the CPL Coordinator at cpl@palomar.edu
They can set up a time to meet and discuss CPL opportunities.
For students interested in CPL, contact one of our CPL Counselors to set up a CPL counseling appointment:
- Tina Barlolong (cbarlolong@palomar.edu, EXT. 3415)
- Patrick O’Brien (pobrien@palomar.edu)
- Lisa Romain (lromain@palomar.edu)
- Sierra Lovelace (slovelace@palomar.edu)
- Russ McDonald (rmcdonald@palomar.edu)
For faculty and staff interested in learning more about CPL and potential opportunities for students within your disciplines, contact Candace Rose CPL Coordinator, at cpl@palomar.edu.
Military students - follow the steps on the Veterans Services website to send your official military transcripts to Palomar.
No. You just need to be registered at Palomar College in order to apply for Credit for Prior Learning.
The "registered" student, as defined for CPL, is a student that has been admitted to Palomar, has a Palomar student ID number and is eligible to enroll.
Go to the Apply for Credit for Prior Learning link in the site menu and following the instructions.
If you are a High School student and interested in High School Articulation Credit by Exam, please go to our High School Credit by Exam webpage for more information on how to earn those credits.