Weber State offers credit for non-classroom learning, saving students more than $7M last year
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University is providing ways for students to translate real-world experience into academic progress.
Through Prior Learning Assessment, a process that allows students to earn college credit for knowledge gained outside of the classroom, Wildcats can reduce the cost of their education and earn a degree faster.
In the 2024–25 academic year, 3,400 WSU students took advantage of PLA to earn more than 27,280 credits, an increase of 1,300+ credits from the year prior. That’s an estimated tuition savings of $7,224,538.
“This is a great way to recognize the valuable professional experiences that many of our students bring to their educational journey,” said Molly Sween, Department of Criminal Justice chair. “Our department recognizes the time and money that goes into college, and we hope this leads to more efficient degree paths for students.”
The criminal justice department was recently recognized as a Prior Learning Champion, an award given by WSU’s Division of Online & Continuing Education to programs that remove barriers for students through credit for prior learning.
Students studying criminal justice have four tests, called challenge exams, they can take to demonstrate competency and earn credit for required classes. To qualify, they must have at least three consecutive years of full-time employment in a criminal justice-related profession within the last five years.
What prior learning experiences can qualify for university credit?
In addition to criminal justice, departments with PLA options include automotive technology, computer science, dance, music, world languages and cultures, rehabilitation sciences, radiologic sciences, nursing, and respiratory therapy — and the university is continually evaluating other areas where students can demonstrate existing competency.
“We have learners at Weber State who come from varied backgrounds, and we want to allow them to incorporate some of that life experience into their university education,” said Lani Shepard, assistant registrar for records operations.
Military training, successfully completing Peace Officer Standards and Training, and proficiency in a foreign language may also qualify students for credit.
Standardized tests — such as Advanced Placement exams, ACT, or SAT — also present opportunities for students to earn college credit. In 2024–25, 833 students earned credit through AP exams, and 1,492 students earned credit for required math or English courses based on their ACT or SAT scores.
WSU has also expanded the number of pathways from regional partner schools, including Ogden-Weber Technical College and Davis Technical College. This means more students can earn a certificate from a partner institution and easily continue their education at WSU without losing credits or repeating coursework.
In 2024–25, WSU awarded 8,299 credit hours to students from qualifying technical colleges, helping them gain the necessary credentials for rewarding jobs in fields such as automotive technology, nursing, and more.
“These efforts contribute to retention and persistence to graduation,” Shepard said. “And it shows students that we recognize what they bring and see them as a whole person here, not just a number.”
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7948, rachelbadali@weber.edu- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7948, rachelbadali@weber.edu