Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

You may be able to earn credit for college-level classes through Credit for Prior Learning. This is separate from simply transferring college credits from other colleges and universities to Central Piedmont.

A minimum of 25% of credits within the degree program must be earned in residence at Central Piedmont.

Since 2024, 198 students have earned 1,479 credits worth $183,725 through the Credit for Prior Learning process.

Prior Learning Methods

— apprenticeships

— state or industry credentials

— courses listed in the High School to Community College Articulation Agreement

— courses listed in the Career and Technical Education Local Articulation Agreement

— military educational and training credit

— standardized exams

— challenge exams

— portfolio assessment

— public safety training courses

— Continuing Education to Curriculum Credit (CE to CU)

To earn credit for a listed standardized exam, simply have the testing company send your official score report directly to the Records Office.

Standardized Exams

You can earn college credit for many other experiences such as certifications, apprenticeships, certain high school and non-credit courses, and challenge exams.

Applications

To earn credit, please download and print the form(s) you need and get those to the Associate Dean of the correct academic department: 

Credit by Examination (CBE) Course Request Form (PDF)

Credit for Industry Certification or Licensure (PDF)

Fill out one form for each course you want to get credit for through Credit for Prior Learning.

Military Credits

To earn credit for Basic Training 1 or 2, or for courses taken while in the military, simply have your DD-214 and military transcripts sent to Central Piedmont Student Records.

Anything Else

If you have training, certifications, or experience that aren’t listed but you think should count for credit, fill out the form(s) on this page in the Applications section and send it to the Associate Dean. The Associate Dean will review it to see if credit can be given.

Get the credit you deserve

You’ve worked hard to gain skills on the job, in the military, through certifications, or other training. Credit for Prior Learning helps you get recognized for that experience so you can finish your degree faster, reduce costs, and stay focused on your goals.