Welcome to Prior Learning

Summer 2013 Undergraduate Session Dates

Applications for the Prior Learning program must be submitted two weeks prior to the start date of the session in which you plan to enroll. For specific session dates, please view the online Course Schedule.

  • Online Session 1
    May 13–July 7, 2013 (Prior Learning application deadline has passed.)
  • On-Site Session 1
    May 13–July 7, 2013 (Prior Learning application deadline has passed.)
  • Online Session 2
    June 3–July 28, 2013 (Prior Learning application due by May 20.)
  • On-Site Session 2
    June 24–August 18, 2013 (Prior Learning application due by June 10.)
  • Online Session 3
    June 24–August 18, 2013 (Prior Learning application due by June 10.)

Adult learners bring a wealth of learning experiences from the workplace and community and volunteer activities to the college classroom. At UMUC, we believe that learning acquired outside of the classroom is valuable and may be eligible for college credit.

There are many benefits to taking part in a Prior Learning program.

Successful Prior Learning program students:

  • Save Time. The average degree-seeking, working adult completes 9 credits of coursework per year. Successful completion of a Portfolio (a written description of your college-level learning and a collection of documents that verify your college-level learning) or a course challenge can cut years off of the degree-completion process.
  • Save Money. Credits awarded through Portfolio assessment are evaluated for a fee that is much lower than the cost of tuition.
  • Gain Understanding. The process helps students understand the many ways they have acquired learning through their full- or part-time jobs and community and volunteer activities outside the classroom.
  • Value Knowledge. Earning credit through Prior Learning programs helps students find value in lifelong experiential learning.

UMUC provides two Prior Learning programs designed to translate experiential learning into college credit. Start earning college credit for what you already know. Review both Prior Learning options below:

  • Portfolio Development
    Please read Frequently Asked Questions About Portfolio Development before applying for these courses.
    • EXCL 301
      During this 3-credit course, students create a portfolio describing and documenting their learning experiences. The portfolio is evaluated by faculty, and up to 18 credits may be awarded. 
      Apply for EXCL 301.
    • EXCL 001
      Prerequisite: EXCL 301. After completing EXCL 301, students may enroll in this non-credit course, which is not graded and is offered solely online twice a semester. Students work at their own pace to develop additional portfolios for faculty review with the potential of up to 30 total credits being awarded through EXCL 301 and EXCL 001 combined. Students are given access to EXCL 301 course materials to assist in portfolio development. 
      Apply for EXCL 001. 
  • Course Challenge
    Students complete the equivalent of a final exam. Review the criteria.