Utah Valley University’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program helps adult learners earn college credit for real-world experience, accelerating degree completion, reducing costs, and opening flexible pathways to career advancement.
Orem, Utah - May 12, 2025
Utah Valley University (UVU) is helping adult learners turn real-world experience into college credit through its expanding Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program. Designed to support students who started a degree but didn’t finish — as well as those entering higher education later in life — CPL offers a flexible, affordable pathway to academic and career advancement.
The program allows students to earn credit for knowledge gained outside the traditional classroom, including professional experience, military service, industry certifications, and specialized training. By doing so, UVU is working to boost graduation rates and reduce both the time and cost of completing a degree.
“Students come to us with real-world experience that’s incredibly valuable,” said Colleen Sorensen, director of CPL and Student Assessment Services at UVU. “Each request tells a story, and we’ve made it our mission to build flexible and innovative pathways that recognize and honor that experience.”
To meet growing demand, UVU has broadened CPL opportunities across numerous disciplines, including:
Students can earn CPL credit through several methods: standardized exams, institutional exams, professional portfolios, or evaluation of prior training and certifications. For instance, those with Certiport Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications may receive credit for information management coursework. Military veterans and public safety professionals can apply prior training toward emergency services degrees. Professionals in animation, digital cinema, or web development can submit portfolios for digital media credits.
“Learning happens in more places than the traditional classroom,” Sorensen noted. “We want to apply that learning toward people’s educational goals, making it easier to complete their degrees faster and at a lower cost.”
To further support returning students, UVU offers financial resources like the Returning Wolverine Grant, available to students who have completed at least 90 credit hours and have been away from school for two or more semesters. Additional financial aid is also available to help make the transition back to school more affordable.
Whether students bring military experience, workplace training, or professional certifications, UVU is committed to making higher education more accessible, affordable, and aligned with real-life achievement.
To learn more or request a consultation with a CPL advisor, visit uvu.edu/cpl.