As we get older we gain more and more experience--experience that can be worth much more than memories and stories to tell the kids. These days you can turn your life experience into college credits when you study in certain continuing education programs, and earning credit for experience outside of the classroom saves not only money, but a great deal of time.
Do you feel like you have accomplished many things in your life that were not rewarded with a diploma or certificate? The "real world" outside the classroom teaches you a great deal about life, and now universities as well as employers are starting to recognize the value of life experience, and are starting to recognize the value of having you around.
You may have worked a certain job in which you learned a lot about computers, or perhaps you lived abroad and can speak another language. These are both examples of valuable life experience that you may be able to convert into college credit.
Other experiences that could earn credit include being a:
- tutor/teacher
- community volunteer
- boy/girl scout troop leader
- real estate agent
- published author
- Much more
You can also earn life experience credit for military service, computer knowledge and experience, and through attending workshops/conferences. If you have five or more years of experience in an industry, and a broad range of knowledge in that field, you may be able to earn college credit for that experience. You can complete a Life Experience Evaluation Form for College Credit online.
When deciding to attend a program that accepts life experience for credit, make sure that the program you choose is reputable. Be sure to enroll only in programs that are accredited, and to speak with an admissions officer before you enroll to confirm that your life experience will count toward college credit.
You will also want to speak to a guidance officer at the school you choose so that you can complete the life experience application. It will require you to provide references, and perhaps speak with the faculty or take a test in the subject you want credit for, to show your knowledge.
Many colleges and universities will require you to complete a portfolio to prove your skills and knowledge. That portfolio might include a resume, work samples, awards or certificates, a job description, news clippings and multimedia materials. For good organization you should include a list of the contents of the portfolio and how each shows your knowledge and skill in a particular area.
Your portfolio may also include letters from employers or essays explaining why you think you should earn college credit for your specific life experiences. You may find that you need to pay a portfolio assessment fee or take a portfolio development course. Program requirements vary from school to school.
While this may sound like it will take a lot of time, consider how much time it will save you in the long run. You won't need to take courses on things you've already lived, so you will cut out a huge chunk of your education, and be one step closer to earning a degree.
Looking into receiving college credit for life experience is definitely worth a try. Such degrees are recognized by most employers as equal to other degrees. Evaluate your experiences, strengths and goals, and check out your program options. Then you may be on your way to earning that promotion at work or to making that career change you've been wanting. All because you already deserve it.
