Program Details

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), also known as Credit for Prior Learning (CPL),  is designed to ascertain real-life college learning you have accomplished on your own. You can turn your know-how and skills into college credits that you can then apply to earning your degree.

Whether your expertise was achieved through work, volunteer, or personal experience, that knowledge is valuable and should be validated. You can validate your achievements via PLA, saving you time and money on the way to reaching your academic and professional goals. PLAs are commonly completed for areas of study such as Business, Communication, Computer Science, Human Services, Sociology, and Interdisciplinary Studies, but they are not limited to these programs.

PLAs can be used in liberal arts, major, and core curricula as well as for additional credits slated for transfer purposes. No limit is placed on the number of credits you can earn through prior learning. The amount of credits you receive depends on your knowledge and skill base. Prior learning credits are transferable to four-year institutions.

No matter where you are in life, you are college material. The idea of going back to college can seem overwhelming. We understand. That's why ASAP is here to help you succeed. We offer great support and guidance for adult learners ready to head back to college or enroll for the first time.

You can complete your college degree by earning credits for the skills and knowledge you already have. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is an ideal solution for working adults seeking to become college graduates.

Learn more about ASAP and CPL by contacting:

ASAP
651-450-3367
ASAP@inverhills.edu

Learn about all of the fantastic support adult learners receive at Inver Hills.

The A.S. in Individualized Professional Studies (IPS) is intended for transfer to all four-year colleges and universities with accelerated adult bachelor’s degree completion programs. These schools include, but are not limited to:

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Concordia University, St. Paul
Augsburg University
Metropolitan State University

What you’ll accomplish as a student in our IPS degree program:

1. Work directly with student-focused faculty who are experts in their fields
2. Complete your degree faster via Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
3. Reduce your expenses via Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
4. Maximize the power of your previously earned credits
5. Transfer effortlessly to a four-year college or university (A.S. degree)
6. Take advantage of customized degree planning and support via ASAP
7. Enhance your current career prospects (A.A.S.)
8. Work toward your degree in the company of your peers
9. Graduate and continue your academic and professional careers with less student debt

According to U.S. News & World Report, national student loan debt topped $1.7 trillion in the second quarter of 2021, or roughly $740 billion more than U.S. total credit card debt.

In Minnesota, 900,000 student loan borrowers owe an average $31,250 in federal and private student debt. That debt translates into an average monthly payment topping $250. 

Tuition and fees for one year at Inver Hills costs a little less than $5,500. Compare that to $15,000 to $20,000 at a for-profit college, or $40,000 to $50,000+ at a private college or university. You can complete your first two years at Inver Hills getting a topflight, hands-on education from knowledgeable, caring and experienced faculty and then transfer to a four-year school as a junior all while saving thousands of dollars.

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