Prior Learning Credit
Providing specialized guidance, academic planning, and connections for students and communities.
Prior Learning Credit
Prior learning credit (PLC) is another means through which students can receive credit for college-level knowledge that has been gained or achieved outside of the classroom. This knowledge may have been gained through military activities, the attainment of an industry-recognized credential, or the completion of academic assessments that evaluate this level of knowledge. Students eligible to apply for PLC may be charged a non-refundable processing fee.
Students who wish to seek a degree at NPRC may be eligible to apply for prior learning credit. Prior learning credit may be awarded for the following in alignment with NPRC-9515: Prior Learning Credit:
→ Achievement of an established minimum score on certain nationally recognized exams, such as an Advanced Placement Exam (AP), DSST credit-by-exam, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), International Baccalaureate Program (IB), or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)
→ An active industry credential or licensure, such as Pennsylvania Firefighter I, Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT), Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Certification, Pennsylvania Sherriff and Deputy Sheriff Basic Training Certification, Child Development Associate (CDA), and PA School-Age Professional Credential (SAPC).
→ Career and technical education program completion
→ A challenge exam
→ A challenge portfolio
NPRC’s Articulation Agreements
NPRC maintains articulation agreements with Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to provide prior learning credit for successful program completers at the secondary education programs listed below.
→ Bradford Area School District – Early Childhood Education (2025-26)
→ Corry Area School District – Early Childhood Education (2025-26)
→ Erie County Technical School – Early Childhood Education (2025-26)
→ Erie High School – Criminal Justice – Police Science (2025-26), and Criminal Justice – Protective Services (2025-26),
→ Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center – Early Childhood Education (2025-26)
Evaluation of some prior learning credit opportunities requires advance payment of a non-refundable processing fee. For more information on how to request for prior learning credit, contact an advisor at admissions@rrcnpa.org.
Bringing Affordable Education to You
Create a Free Account
Complete NPRC Application
Submit your Transcripts
See What Our Students Have to Say
“It was a wonderful experience here at NPRC. I learned so much and my instructor was amazing. He was knowledgeable and made sure that everything we need is uploaded online and communicates well with us. He also held us accountable to make sure we were learning and ready. I enjoyed working alongside my amazing classmates and all the different experiences they brought to the course. Everyone in our class was eager to learn and was proactive about staying up to date on what is being asked of us.”
- Marie, NPRC EMT Graduate
“Attending NPRC was truly life-changing for me and provided a foundation to pursue my passion for early childhood education. I gained the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field. But it was bigger than just academics; my professors taught me valuable life lessons and instilled important values that have shaped who I am today. Overall, my college journey has not only prepared me for a successful career but has also equipped me with the mindset and tools to make a positive impact on the lives of young children.”
- Brittany, Early Childhood Education Graduate
“I had a fear that this degree would be unobtainable due to being a full-time employee and mother. With the support of family, friends, coworkers, and NPRC, I’ve gained confidence and support to continue my education.”
- Brittney, NPRC Student
“From the first time I found out about NPRC, I knew attending college was something I wanted to pursue because of how genuine the first interaction was. I’m proof that finding the right path can be done. It’s worth it to find ways out of situations you do not want to be in for better ones. I can’t say enough about how NPRC’s employees have empowered and advocated for me.”
- Amanda, NPRC Student
"NPRC’s faculty, staff, and professors do everything they can to see the students succeed and provide us with exactly what we need to do our best both inside the classroom and out. The early childhood education program is phenomenal. It was a school that aided me in balancing class, schoolwork, and my career. From the start and throughout my time, NPRC made me feel like I was at the right place.”
- Savannah, Early Childhood Education Graduate
Frequently Asked Questions
Apply Today!
Latest Articles
