Pierce College Expands Credit for Prior Learning Opportunities

Pierce College Expands Credit for Prior Learning Opportunities

Pierce College is strengthening its commitment to student success by expanding opportunities for students to earn credit for what they already know. During the 2024–2025 academic year, Pierce faculty collaborated with Interim Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Coordinator, Cristina Castelo Rodriguez, to develop nearly 70 new CPL opportunities. These include credit-by-exam, portfolio review, recognition of industry credentials and military training.

This local effort aligns with a broader statewide initiative led by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to expand CPL access across the state by 2030. Spearheaded by the Mapping Articulated Pathways (MAP) Initiative, this movement aims to recognize and validate the diverse learning experiences of students—especially working adults, apprentices and veterans.

The 2030 vision includes building the capacity and procedures necessary to ensure that at least 250,000 Californians—including 220,000 working adults and apprentices, and 30,000 veterans—receive CPL offers and awards. The goal is to boost equitable access to college, increase degree and certificate completion and support long-term career success. The potential economic impact of this initiative is substantial: projections estimate a $32.4 billion combined benefit over 20 years. This includes $3.7 billion in immediate savings and preserved funds, along with $28.8 billion in long-term economic gains.

To explore how your course could offer Credit for Prior Learning or to learn more about CPL at Pierce College contact Cristina Castelo Rodriguez at rodrigcc@piercecollege.edu or visit our CPL website.