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Webinar is part of focus highlighting the value of transfer credit for students during National Transfer Student Week��

SM������ is holding a free webinar on the practical aspects of earning college credit for prior learning and life and work experiences, titled “Prior Learning Assessment,” on October 19 at 5:00pm PDT. The event is part the University’s outreach during National Transfer Student Week to raise awareness and understanding of the practical ways that transferring credit can save students time and money.

Transferring credit can lower costs and help individuals find the school that best fits their educational needs and career aspirations. Individuals may also be able to gain additional credit from learning obtained through prior experiences.

"In higher education, the concept of 'Credit for Prior Learning' offers an exciting avenue towards degree attainment, streamlining the educational journey for students in terms of both time and financial resources," shared Devin Andrews, vice president of admissions and evaluation. "For individuals who have previously embarked on college studies without completing a degree, the good news is that starting from scratch is not the only option. They can carry forward their progress by transferring credits and exploring opportunities to gain academic recognition for their real-world experiences. This webinar aims to empower attendees with insights into unlocking the potential of their unique life experiences and how they can potentially be translated into valuable college credits."

Earning college credit for prior learning is an assessment process, Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), at SM������ which allows individuals to demonstrate learning gained from work and life experience that may count towards a degree. The assessment includes evaluation of on-the-job training, workplace certifications, military service, and other life experiences.

SM������ provides assessment of prior learning at no cost to students.

The webinar will describe this process in more depth and provide details on:

·������������ An understanding of credit for prior learning, or prior learning assessment (PLA)

·������������ How to apply to have life experience evaluated for possible academic credit toward your degree

·������������ How to potentially save money with PLA

·������������ How to potentially graduate faster with PLA

The discussion will be hosted by Christine Christianson, PLA evaluator, Nathan Cicchillo, MBA, Sr. director, Office of Admissions and Evaluation, and Brian Grensky, Sr. evaluator, Office of Admissions and Evaluation.

In addition to PLA, or credit for prior learning, the SM������ works to make the process of transferring credit straightforward for students. The SM������ supports student transfers in several ways:

·������������ Simplifying the college credit transfer process: knowledgeable staff provide supportive guidance and academic advising, request transcripts from prior institutions on students' behalf when possible, and specially trained transfer evaluators review all prior credit;

·������������ Offering generous credit transfer possibilities: [CF1]

·������������ Saving students money: on average, SM������ students save up to $11,000 and shave 1 year off their undergraduate degree with eligible transfer credits and relevant work experience.

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Students and others who want to learn more can explore ways to save through transfer credit and more at the SM��������transfer credits information page.

About SM������

SM������ is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, and Career Services for Life® help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.��

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