The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process is designed to recognize and evaluate learning gained through diverse educational, work, and/or training experiences. The number and types of PLA opportunities are specific to each program, and the decision of which PLA opportunities are the most appropriate for students within the discipline is determined by the program's faculty.

Some PLA opportunities may only require valid documentation, such as an active certification, while others will require students to first successfully demonstrate competency in their discipline, such as with a written exam or skills demonstration.

Visit the Prior Learning Assessment website to learn more about the different types of PLA, including:

• the Advanced Placement (AP) exam.
• the College Level Examination Program (CLEP).
• the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma.
• departmental exams.
• certifications/licensures.
• linked courses.
• military credit.

Prior Learning Assessment Proposals

To propose a new PLA opportunity, faculty must receive approval from their supervising Associate Dean/Director prior to submitting any documentation.

Once approval is received, faculty must then e-mail the Curriculum Office at curriculumoffice@collin.edu to begin the proposal process and to receive the documents needed to complete the proposal portfolio.

PLA Review and Approval Process

The proposed PLA opportunities are reviewed for compliance by the Curriculum Office and then prepared for the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Review Board. (Only complete portfolios will be submitted to the PLA Review Board). 

Based on their review, the PLA Review Board will either determine the proposal to be "Recommended" or "Not Recommended". "Recommended" proposals will move on to the Academic and Student Services Council (ASSC) for their review.

PLA proposals that are approved by the ASSC will be added to the PLA inventory as an Available PLA Opportunity.