Prior Learning Assessment
Ashland University provides several ways to obtain credit for experiences outside the traditional classroom.
- Credit by exam
- Military credit
- Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy credit
- Prior learning portfolio assessment
Details about AU’s prior learning options are found in the most current academic catalog. And, to learn more about this program, submit the Prior Learning Portfolio Interest Form to schedule a consultation with the PLA Coordinator.

Contact Information
Kristy Tipton
Testing Center Director; Prior Learning Assessment Coordinator
ktipton1@ashland.edu
419-207-4998
Credit by Exam
Ashland University recognizes a number of exams that can lead to credit. Minimum scores apply and transfer by examination is subject to academic department and registrar review before acceptance. Discuss credit by exam options with your academic advisor.

Military Credit
Your submitted official military transcript is automatically evaluated for potential credit transfer upon admission to the university. Up to 90 credit hours can transfer towards a bachelor's degree.
- DD-214: Up to five undergraduate credit hours for military service
- Community College of the Air Force (CCAF)
- Joint Services Transcript (JST)
- Transfer Credit Samples

Criminal Justice Training
Up to 30 credit hours of PLA credit from the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy can be applied towards an Ashland University criminal justice degree. To get started, submit an Unofficial Transcript Evaluation Request.
- Sample form with PLA OPOTA equivalencies.

Prior Learning Portfolio Assessment
Ashland University uses a Prior learning portfolio assessment process to evaluate prior learning experiences that occurred outside the college/university classroom. Request a Prior Learning Portfolio Consultation
- Prior Learning Credit Catalog Page
- PLA Portfolio Student Syllabus
- What to do before your PLA Consultation Meeting
Prior Learning Assessment Webinar
September 21, 2023 at 6 p.m. EST
