Prior learning is defined as the acquisition of college-level knowledge and skills that happens outside of the traditional classroom environment. These skills might stem from industry or military training, volunteer work, private study or other life experiences. In many cases MCC can issue credit for prior learning (CPL), which can accelerate your completion of a degree or certificate.
If you feel you have college-level learning equivalent to a current MCC course, meet with a Student Success Advisor to discuss the different methods and steps for requesting CPL, and for transfer information. Note that credits earned through prior learning are not always accepted for credit at other schools.
Credit for prior learning methods
MCC currently offers credit for prior learning through a variety of methods:
Credit by Exam - National Exams
If you pass one of the following national examinations, you may be eligible for credit by examination: Advanced Placement (AP), College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), Defense Activity for Nontraditional Educational Support (DANTES/DSST), Excelsior College Exams (formerly ACT-PEP/RCE), International Baccalaureate (IB), ACT WorkKeys Career Assessments, or Project Lead the Way (PLTW). A passing score on one of these exams may qualify you for elective credit or for an equivalent MCC course.
To request credit for a national exam, official scores must be sent to the MCC Student Data Center, 3200 Broadway, Kansas City, MO, 64111. Test fees may apply if the examination is taken in an MCC testing center.
Credit by Exam - Departmental Exams
Some departments offer exams for credit. Enrolled students who wish to demonstrate learning that is equivalent to an MCC course may ask to have their learning evaluated by an MCC subject matter expert. The examination method may be written, oral, skill demonstration or a combination of all three at the discretion of examining faculty.
If you pass the examination, the course will be transcribed in the semester the exam is taken. You will be charged half the regular tuition for the class (based on place of residence) before you take the exam. This charge applies whether you pass the exam or not. For questions or further information, contact a Student Success Advisor.
Industry Training
MCC follows the American Council on Education (ACE) guidelines in awarding credit for industry credentials. Enrolled students who can document completion of an approved industrial/corporate training program, may request credit by certification. Visit the ACE website to see what is available. To request credit by certification, contact the campus enrollment manager. There is no charge for credit by certification.
Enrolled students who have current industry credentials that are not addressed by the ACE guides may also request credit by certification. You will need to supply documentation of any valid industry certifications awarded, and time limits may apply for certain programs.
Determination of equivalent MCC course credit will be at the discretion of MCC subject matter experts and the dean of instruction. To request credit contact the campus dean of instruction.
There are several industry credentials in IT that already have approved MCC equivalents. Visit MCC's Computer Science program for more details.
Apprenticeships
Your apprenticeship might be worth 30 to 42 credit hours through one of the qualifying fields.
Military Training
MCC welcomes veterans, active duty military, reservists and National Guard members. The U.S. Armed Forces offer some of the finest leadership and technical training in the world, and there are several ways to receive credit for learning accomplished while serving our country. Learn more about how your military experience may qualify for credit.