3357:12-13-13-Policy on Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

A.POLICY

This policy establishes the guidelines for awarding Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit at Zane State College. PLA allows students to earn academic credit for prior knowledge, skills, and experiences that align with the learning outcomes of specific courses or academic programs.

 

B.POLICY GUIDELINES

 

Eligibility for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Credit

• Students may apply for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit as a substitution for academic program/course requirements.
• Non-traditional credits awarded should not exceed two-thirds of the program courses required to complete a degree or certificate.
• Students receiving non-traditional credit must still meet the residency requirement for their degree.

Types of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)Portfolio Review:

• Students submit a portfolio that demonstrates their prior learning through documents, certifications, work samples, and other forms of evidence.
• Each portfolio is evaluated by a faculty member or subject-matter expert.
• The portfolio must clearly show how the student’s prior experience aligns with the learning outcomes of the course.

Certification and Credentialed Experience:

• Students may be awarded credit for standardized state- recognized credentials.
• Students who graduate from a state-recognized Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) will be awarded the same credit hours that are granted to Zane State College OPOTA graduates, with a waiver of the residency requirement.
• Certification and credential evaluations are completed on a case- by-case basis.

Application Process for PLA

• Students interested in PLA credit must complete the Prior Learning Assessment Application, which can be obtained from the Registrar’s Office.
• The student must submit all required documentation, such as a portfolio or certification/credential evidence, for review by the faculty evaluator or program advisor.
• If students are unsure how past experience may relate to coursework, they are encouraged to meet with a program advisor or subject expert for guidance.

Fees for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

• Students will be charged a minimum fee for the evaluation of a portfolio or certification/credential, regardless of whether credit is awarded.
• If the student requests the evaluation of more than one course, an additional fee will be assessed.
• Students are encouraged to review the online published fee schedule for specific details on fees and payment requirements.

Transferability of PLA Credit

• PLA credit may not be accepted by other colleges or universities as transfer credit.
• Students should consult with transfer institutions if they plan to use Zane State College PLA credits at another institution.

Residency Requirement

• Even when students receive prior learning credit, they must still meet the residency requirement for their degree or certificate.
• Residency requirements may be waived for specific cases, such as Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) graduates.

 

C.POLICY HISTORY

• This policy is effective immediately.
• Policy revisions approved by the President’s Cabinet.

 

D.INITIATING DIVISION

• Registrar’s Office

E.POLICY REVIEWERS

• Registrar’s Office

 

F.POLICY REFERENCES

• Forms Referenced: Prior Learning Assessment Application Form
• Codified Rules: None
• Connecting Policies: Transfer Credit Policy