SUNY Rockland Community College recognizes that learning takes place in a variety of situations and circumstances. The College may grant credit for college-level learning acquired as a result of work experience, volunteer work andcommunity service.Many students have significant, demonstrable learning fromexperiences outside the traditional academic environment.Therefore, prior learning, not life experience, is the basis for the award of college credits.

Rockland Community College will evaluate Prior Learning credits based on the degree or certificate the student intends to pursue at RCC. Prior Learning will be considered as part of the maximum allowable number of transfer credits (32 credits for degrees except for Automotive Service Excellence Certification A1-A8 and 15 for a certificate).

In no case shall the number of Prior Learning credits exceed half the number of credits required for the Concentration/Core emphasis with the exception of students entering with an Automotive Service Excellence Certification A1-A8.

Students must be currently enrolled in credit bearing courses and complete that semester of enrollment in order to apply for this type of credit. The current procedure for receiving Prior Learning credits is as follows:

1. The student may take a departmental challenge examination
2. The student may submit a portfolio (e.g. art, photography, etc.).
3. Credits are assessed and approved by the Discipline Coordinator, approved by the Division Chair, reviewed by the Director of Assessment and Placement, and approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
   

Credits received through Prior Learning Assessment is not necessarily transferable to other colleges and universities. Therefore, students are strongly advised to meet with a program advisor or contact the college or university they plan to attend.

If you would like to earn college credit for knowledge and skills gained outside the classroom, please contact the Office Of Assessment and Placement at (845) 574-4525 or 574-4288.