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Prior Learning Assessments Option

Man and Woman in Office EnvironmentThe Prior Learning Assessment program at West Kentucky Community & Technical College is designed to award credit for college-level learning derived from experiences outside the classroom.

Following CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) standards, WKCTC uses the portfolio method for evaluating college-level learning experiences. Prior learning credit will be awarded only if it can be equated with the learning outcomes/objectives described in our catalog or in the course syllabi. Portfolios are evaluated by an appropriate faculty member.

What experience counts?

Learning acquired through the following kinds of activities might qualify:

  • Non-credit courses, workshops, on-line, television and newspaper courses
  • Apprenticeship courses
  • Self-taught knowledge or skills
  • Career/work experiences and training
  • Volunteer work
  • Community services
  • Travel
  • Avocations, e.g., art, music, dramatics
  • Leadership roles in associations and organizations
  • Personal life experiences
  • Industry certification
 

How Do I Start?Computer keyboard

  • Contact Dr. Tammy Owen 270-534-3476. 
  • Make a list of your skills and write out your objectives using our Prior Learning Inventory (new window).  When writing your objectives, ask these questions:
  • What degree are you seeking?
  • What classes do you think you can bypass?
  • Set portfolio objectives
  • Prepare a draft of the portfolio for review, make necessary changes and submit final version for assessment.
  • Faculty will assess competencies and determine whether additional documentation is required before making the final determination.

 

 

Why Should I Do This?

  • It's less expensive.
    You pay $375 for a portfolio assessment of 15 credit hours (five 3-credit courses).
  • It speeds up graduation
    A 30-credit hour certificate program that typically takes a year could be completed in one semester by a student who earned 15 hours through prior learning assessment.
  • NOTE:  You should create a portfolio only when seeking at least 3 hours of credit for prior learning.

Create a Portfolio

  • A portfolio is a collection of materials that describes and documents prior learning.
  • A handbook is available to help you develop your portfolio for prior learning assessment.
  • Knowledge, skills and/or competencies must be documented for the course(s) for which credit is applied.
  • The portfolio is developed under the direction of the WKCTC's professional staff and is evaluated by the faculty for award of credit.

Other Information

West Kentucky Community and Technical College
4810 Alben Barkley Drive Paducah, Kentucky 42001
Phone: 270-554-9200 | Emergency Notification
WKCTC is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution.
WKCTC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs or activities.
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