Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Lesley University recognizes that adult students may have had professional and life experiences that parallel college level learning.

The PLA process begins with a three (3) credit course, AWRIT 4010 Prior Learning Assessment Preparation. In this course, faculty guide students to identify and document their learning experiences into a comprehensive portfolio. AWRIT 4010 is offered on a pass/fail basis and submission of a PLA portfolio is a requirement for completion of the course, regardless of whether or not it will be assessed for credit. Students may apply for as few as three (3), and as many as forty-five (45) credits that, if awarded, will count toward degree requirements. In addition to the cost of the three-credit course, students pay a $100 per credit assessment fee at the time they submit the PLA portfolio (students must submit this fee prior to having their portfolios assessed and regardless of how many credits are ultimately awarded).

The Assistant Vice President of College Partnerships and Transfer Initiatives selects the appropriate academic division/program or department and works in collaboration with the Dean and Chair or Director to identify the expert or experts among faculty to work on the credential review. The Dean and Chair or Director select the faculty member or members according to their experience and knowledge of the area to be reviewed. The Assistant Vice President of College Partnerships and Transfer Initiatives, Chair or Director and selected faculty members responsible to evaluate the program meet with the director of the program to be reviewed to have a clear understanding of the rationale for transfer. Faculty members can opt out of reviewing transfer of credits.

Students wishing to appeal award decisions should contact the PLA Coordinator for instructions. All appeals will be reviewed by the Assistant Vice President for Adult Learning Programs whose decision related to credit awards will be final.

Awarded credits are incorporated into a student’s degree plan as transfer credits and are calculated as part of the maximum 90 allowable transfer credits for LCAL students. PLA credits may be applied to requirements in the major, general education, or electives in the BS/BA in Liberal Studies program. (Approval may be required for some credits to count towards traditional CLAS majors.)

Students interested in earning credit through PLA should discuss their eligibility with their advisor early in their degree planning. Potential PLA credits should be considered and discussed as part of a student’s transfer credits at the time of enrollment; credits through PLA are ideally taken in, and no later than, the third semester of a student’s plan. Students wishing to learn more about the process should contact their advisor or the PLA coordinator in the Center for the Adult Learner, Julianne Corey at jcorey2@lesley.edu.