Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a group of credit earning methods that allow students to earn credit for college-level knowledge, skills and expertise gained through years of work, professional training, military training and other experiences.

PLA methods are typically much less costly than traditional course tuition and can save students time and money.

Modern prior learning assessment methods and techniques were developed, tested and validated in the 1970s by a consortium of institutions known as the Cooperative Assessment of Experiential Learning.

Today, prior learning assessment is accepted at thousands of regionally accredited colleges and universities across the country, including Peirce College.