Credit for Prior Learning at USHE Degree-Granting Institutions. Issue Brief

The Utah Board of Higher Education has implemented a strategic plan to increase access to higher education and facilitate students' pathways to meaningful careers. A key initiative of the plan allows students to earn college credit for knowledge and skills acquired outside traditional college settings, such as through rigorous academic study before enrolling in college, employer training programs, or military service. The Board's Credit for Prior Learning initiative streamlines degree progression as a completion strategy but also serves as an affordability tool. The strategy is based in Utah Code 53B-16-107 and Board Policy R472, Credit for Prior Learning; the System's Prior Learning Assessment Quality Standards and Best Practices Handbook provides detailed guidance for institutions.