Prior Learning Assessment

Earn college credit for what you know . . .

If you have experience in subjects offered by Pellissippi State, you may be able to gain credit for what you've already learned. It's called Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). 

Credit for PLA may include learning acquired from work and life experiences; civic, community, or volunteer work; individual study; and in-service training sponsored by associations, business, government, and industry, including the military.  PLA is the evaluation and assessment of an individual’s life learning for college credit, certification, or advanced standing toward further education or training and is reviewed for college-level equivalency.

Pellissippi State offers various methods of PLA credit.

Credit by Examination

• Advanced Placement (AP)
• College-Level Examination (CLEP)
• DSST Credit by Exam Program (Formerly DANTES)
• Excelsior Credit by Exam
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• PSCC Credit by Examination

Credit for Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) Exam
Credit for Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Exam

Students passing the CPS Exam and CAP Exam will be granted college credit at Pellissippi State.

Credit for ACE-approved Training

Pellissippi State may award college credit for employer-sponsored training and certifications based on the the ACE National Guide to College Credit for Workforce Training when applicable to your program of study. This includes evaluation of corporate training, certificates and/or apprenticeship programs which may lead to college credit.

Credit for Department of Labor (DOL) Approved Apprenticeship Programs

• IBEW Inside Wireman Program
• National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
• United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters
• Other Approved DOL Apprenticeship Programs

Credit for Life Experience

Students may earn college credit through life experiences outside the classroom.

Credit for Military Training

Pellissippi State works closely with veterans to ensure that the maximum amount of credit may be awarded for military courses and training.

Credit for Tennessee Technology Center (TTC) Diplomas

Pellissippi State has an articulation agreement with Tennessee Technology Centers (TTC) for students who have completed a diploma program at a TTC.