Students Can Get Credit for What They Know
At the Â鶹app College of Professional Studies Online, we recognize that valuable learning happens beyond the classroom. Adult learners often bring years of professional experience, military service, certifications, and workplace training—knowledge that can count toward an online degree.
We spoke with Dr. Julie Moser, Prior Learning Assessment Coordinator and Senior Online Adjunct Faculty member, about how Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and transfer credit options at UNH CPS Online help students turn real-world experience into academic progress. With more than 18 years of experience in adult education and online learning, Julie specializes in helping students leverage prior experience to save time and reduce tuition costs.
In this Q&A, you’ll learn how prior learning assessment works, what types of experience may qualify for college credit, and how tools like the Transfer Equivalency System (TES) can help you evaluate transfer credit before applying. Whether you’re returning to school or finishing a degree you started, UNH CPS Online provides flexible pathways to help you move forward faster.
Q&A With Dr. Julie Moser, Ed.D.
Q: Can you share your professional background and your connection to UNH CPS Online?
A: I’ve spent more than 18 years working in adult education, online learning, curriculum design, faculty development, and student engagement. My connection with UNH spans over 15 years, serving in roles such as Senior Online Instructor, Online Community Manager, and Director of a national online training program.
I’ve also held leadership and faculty development positions at Granite State College prior to its integration into UNH CPS. I hold an Ed.D. from Plymouth State University, a master’s degree from UNH, and a B.A. from the University of Southern Maine. My passion is helping adult and online learners succeed—especially because I was once an online student myself.
Q: Why is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) so important for adult learners pursuing an online degree?
A: Adult learners bring an incredible variety of professional, military, and community experiences to their education. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), also known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), recognizes that knowledge.
At UNH CPS Online, CPL allows students to earn credit for what they already know—whether that knowledge comes from work experience, certifications, training programs, or military service. This helps students save time, reduce costs, and move more efficiently toward completing their degree.
Q: What types of prior learning can students receive credit for at UNH CPS Online?
A: Students may be eligible to receive credit for a wide range of prior learning experiences, including:
- College-level coursework from regionally accredited institutions
- Training programs evaluated by ACE or NCCRS
- Workplace training programs evaluated directly by CPS (such as NH Police Standards & Training Academy or NH Fire Academy)
- Non-collegiate course providers like Sophia, StraighterLine, and Saylor Academy
- Standardized exams such as CLEP, DSST, and AP
- Experiential Learning Portfolios that demonstrate college-level knowledge gained through professional experience
Q: How does the transfer credit evaluation process work?
A: The process begins when students apply and submit all relevant transcripts and documentation, including college coursework, military experience, training, certifications, and exam results.
After acceptance, an academic advisor reviews these materials to maximize transfer credit opportunities. This ensures students get the most value from their previous learning as they enter a UNH CPS Online program.
Q: What is the Transfer Equivalency System (TES), and how can students use it?
A: The Transfer Equivalency System (TES) is an online tool that allows prospective students to explore how prior learning may transfer before they apply.
TES includes:
- Course equivalencies
- Evaluated training programs
- Transfer credit policies
- Credential evaluations
While TES is a planning tool and not an official evaluation, it helps students make informed decisions and better understand how their experience aligns with UNH CPS Online programs.
Q: What advice do you have for prospective online students exploring CPL or transfer credit?
A: My best advice is simple: ask questions. Our academic advisors work closely with the credit for prior learning team and faculty to help students maximize their opportunities.
Even if you don’t immediately see your experience listed in TES, it’s always worth asking. We’re continually evaluating new credentials and experiences to help students save time and reduce costs.
Q: Can you share examples of programs or experiences that offer significant credit opportunities?
A: UNH CPS has been a leader in prior learning assessment since 1972, supporting students with professional, military, and community-based experience.
Some of the most popular opportunities come from industry pathways such as behavioral health, law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and first responder training. For example, students who complete the Building Futures behavioral health program may be eligible to apply between 16 and 28 credits toward an Applied Psychology or Human Services bachelor’s degree.
Opportunities like these can significantly accelerate degree completion and reduce overall tuition costs.
Get Credit for What You Know
Curious how your experience could translate into college credit?
Explore your options and connect with an advisor to get started.