Articles
Prior Learning Assessment credit helps students advance toward a college degree or credential
Oct 23, 2024
2024 Humble PD Officer of the Year Robert King with Jessica King and Humble Chief of Police Ken Theis.
Robert King loves his job with the Humble Police Department. In September 2024, he was recognized for outstanding service as the department’s Officer of the Year. And soon, he will apply to step up the professional ladder to become a detective, a move made possible in part by the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program at Houston Community College (HCC).
After four years on the force, King realized an associate degree could shorten the time an intermediate police officer can proceed to advance status. At HCC’s recommendation, he took General Education Courses through Sophia, a self-paced study program recognized by the American Council on Education.
“It was hard work for a man with a family working full-time,” King said, “but I did it and it has paid off.” HCC applied his credits gained through Sophia towards an associate degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement, earning him intermediate police officer status in half the time. Now, he is eligible for consideration in other advanced professional positions, including detective.
Since 2019, HCC has awarded more than 529 college course credits for work experience to individuals in 12 industries. PLA helps experienced workers like King find recognition for skills and industry-related licensures and credentials through college credit. King received credit for his prior learning which shortened his educational path and saved the equivalent in tuition.
“I would do this a thousand times over again,” King said. “I tell everyone in the department that they should do the same and be ready for new opportunities when they arise.”
HCC's PLA program provides six alternative options for earning credit, including Military Credit, Credit by Exam, Mirror Courses, Certification/Training Credits, Work Experience/Portfolio, and Articulated Agreements. Eligible students can bypass introductory courses and progress more quickly towards their academic goals.
Research shows that adult students who utilize PLA methods tend to have higher graduation rates, greater persistence, and faster degree completion times. By optimizing their prior learning, these students are able to avoid duplicating coursework and reduce excess tuition costs.
To get started, students must meet HCC's admissions requirements and have a term-activated semester credit account. An academic advisor can then help determine the most appropriate PLA pathway based on the student's unique background and experiences. Fees for PLA credits are nominal and some pathways like Articulated Agreements have no fees at all. Military students do not pay any PLA fees.
Students seek PLA credits to qualify them for higher positions within their chosen industry. Like King, many realize that professional development will result in higher pay, while others want to speed through to complete a degree. PLA credit saves them both time and money.
Whatever the motivation, HCC’s PLA program is a helpful tool for those seeking to advance in their careers. For more information, call 713-718-8040 or email hcc.pla@hccs.edu.