Adult Learning Programs
"The #1 college in the nation for non-traditional students" - Best College Reviews (2024)
At LC State, we recognize that learning can happen outside the classroom.
What Is Prior Learning?
Turn your experience into college credit!
Our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program lets you earn credit for the knowledge and skills you've gained outside the classroom — through work, training, or life experience. It's a smart way to finish your degree faster while saving money
Degree Options:
- Certificate
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
Prior Learning Assessment Options
What is a Portfolio?
A Portfolio let's you showcase the college-level learning you've gained from real-world experience.
This option is a great fit if you've learned through hands-on experiences — like starting or running a business, managing a big project, or volunteering long-term with a community organization.
With a portfolio, you can request credit for a specific class. For more information: Portfolio Assessments
Step 1: Contact the Adult Learning Program Coordinator at priorlearning@lcsc.edu.
A Challenge Exam assesses your mastery of college-level learning outcomes designated for specific LC State courses.
Exams may include a variety of formats, such as multiple choice questions, short answer, essay questions, oral interviews, or skills demonstrations.
For more information: Challenge-Exams
Step 1: Contact the Adult Learning Program Coordinator at priorlearning@lcsc.edu.
CLEP, DSST/DANTES enable students to earn college credit by examination. Students interested in earning credit through the respective program should contact the Registrar & Records Office .
For more information: Minimum Required Scores and LC State Equivalent Courses
Step 1 if you plan to take a CLEP Exam:
- Register for your CLEP Exam- CLEP fees and LC State Testing Center fees apply.
- Make an appointment for your exam with the Testing Center. Fill out the online form or call 208-792-2100
Step 1: If you have already completed CLEP exams and wish to have your scores evaluated: Request that your scores be sent to the Registrar directly from:
CLEP
Educational Testing Service
Princeton, New Jersey, 08541
Credit for military training and experience is available. Applicants who wish to receive credit for military training must submit an official military transcript to the Registrar and Records Office via the Joint Service Transcript site: https://jst.doded.mil/official.html or the Community College of the Air Force.
Step 1: Contact the Registrar's Office to request an evaluation of your military training and experience.
It is recommended to contact the Veteran Services Coordinator:
Veterans Services
Reid Centennial Hall #21
500 8th Avenue
Lewiston, ID 83501
208-792-2473
An official evaluation will not be granted until the applicant has matriculated to Lewis-Clark State College and earned a minimum of three credits from LC State.
The assessment and transcription of credit for military training and experience is consistent with the established standards for credit evaluation and award based on standards such as the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide.
For more information: LCSC Policy 2.120
For more information on Lewis-Clark State College’s policy on Credit by Prior Learning Assessment: Policy 2.118 Credit by Prior Learning Assessment.
