In today’s educational landscape, where the focus is increasingly on flexibility and accessibility, Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is emerging as a pivotal opportunity for adult learners to either use their experience or previous education or training towards a college degree. CPL refers to the process of awarding college credit for knowledge and skills acquired outside traditional academic settings, such as through work experience, military service, professional training, or independent study. This recognition of prior learning is not only a boost to a learner’s confidence, but also an invaluable tool for those seeking to get a degree as fast as possible. .

For adult learners—many of whom are balancing jobs, families, and other responsibilities—CPL offers a pathway to earning a degree more quickly and at a lower cost. By reducing the time needed to complete a program, CPL minimizes both tuition expenses and the opportunity cost of delayed graduation. This accelerated timeline is crucial for nontraditional students who are looking to advance their careers or make significant life changes without spending years in school.

Why Credit for Prior Learning Matters

1.  Time Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of CPL is its impact on time to degree completion. Adult learners often have significant work and life responsibilities, and the ability to earn academic or program credits for prior learning can drastically reduce the time required to finish a degree. This reduction is essential in making higher education more accessible and feasible for those juggling jobs, families, and other commitments. Adult learners often return to school with a wealth of experience already under their belt. CPL allows them to translate this experience into academic credit, effectively shortening the path to graduation. With the ability to skip over material they’ve already mastered, students can focus on acquiring new skills rather than revisiting old ones. EdSurge emphasizes the flexibility of CPL, especially post-pandemic, as adult learners seek to apply the skills they’ve acquired in various real-life situations to their academic goals​.

2. Cost Savings

From a financial perspective, CPL can help students avoid the costs associated with taking courses that cover material they already know. Since adult learners are typically financing their education themselves, this cost-saving potential can be a significant motivator for returning to school. Higher education can be a financial challenge especially for adults who may already have families and careers. CPL enables students to earn credits for their prior knowledge, reducing the number of courses they need to take—and, by extension, the tuition they need to pay. According to an article by The Chronicle, this financial relief can make higher education accessible to more people, particularly underrepresented groups and those who might otherwise be deterred by the cost.

3. Recognition of Experience

Many adult learners have spent years in the workforce, accumulating skills and expertise that are highly relevant to their field of study. CPL not only acknowledges this valuable experience, but also validates their accomplishments. This method increases equity by recognizing work and life experience as valuable, accelerating graduation, and reducing barriers for non-traditional students. For students who may feel apprehensive about returning to school, this recognition can be a powerful motivator, reinforcing that their professional journey is a vital part of their educational success. A report from Inside Higher Ed highlights the growing trend of colleges offering CPL programs to accommodate the unique needs of adult learners, who often return to education after years in the workforce. These learners bring practical skills and life experiences that traditional younger students may lack, and CPL acknowledges their real-world knowledge by awarding academic credits for non-traditional learning experiences​. 

4. Retention and Graduation Rates

Research indicates that colleges and universities that offer robust CPL programs are more likely to attract and retain adult learners. An article from the American Council on Education highlights that adult learners who earn CPL credits often take an average of 17.6 more credits than their peers, suggesting that these programs increase students’ commitment to their institutions. Additionally, CPL is associated with a 17% higher likelihood of degree completion, with even larger gains for students from historically marginalized groups, including Hispanic and Black students. ​By valuing their experience and offering a faster, more affordable path to a degree, institutions can foster a greater sense of belonging and investment. The result is higher retention and graduation rates, as students feel empowered to achieve their academic goals.

How Institutions Can Leverage CPL to Attract Adult Learners

Given the flexibility and value CPL offers, it’s no surprise that institutions that adopt and promote this model are better positioned to attract adult learners. Providing clear information about CPL opportunities—whether through online modules, student services, or advising sessions—can make all the difference. Additionally, developing partnerships with industries and employers to create customized CPL pathways can ensure adult learners find programs that align directly with their career goals.

In an increasingly competitive educational environment, offering credit for prior learning is one of the most effective strategies to support adult learners. It’s not just about getting them through the door—it’s about empowering them to cross the graduation stage with the skills and knowledge they need for long-term success.

At Upswing, we understand the unique needs of adult learners. Our platform is designed to be easy to use and accessible from any location at any time, offering non-traditional learners the flexibility they need to succeed. Whether it’s accessing tutoring services, mental health support, or assignment reviews, Upswing provides a holistic support system that complements CPL, helping adult learners stay on track and graduate faster. At Upswing, we recognize that adult learners bring a wealth of experience, but often need support systems that are flexible and available whenever they need them. Our platform is designed with these learners in mind, providing around-the-clock access to a variety of academic and mental health services. Whether it’s through tutoring, mental health support, or assignment review, Upswing empowers non-traditional students by delivering a seamless, accessible experience tailored to their unique needs. This flexibility is crucial for adult learners who balance work, family, and educational goals.

Additionally, Upswing’s offerings perfectly complement Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) initiatives. By allowing students to gain academic credit for previous work and life experience, CPL can accelerate the path to graduation while lowering costs. At the same time, Upswing’s holistic support ensures that adult learners stay engaged and succeed in their academic journey, whether they need help with coursework, navigating mental health challenges, or finding the best way to manage their time.

With Upswing’s easy-to-use platform and holistic support system, adult learners can confidently pursue their degrees, knowing they have the tools and resources to succeed. Explore how Upswing can help your institution support adult learners and retain students longer through our range of services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can complement your CPL initiatives and enhance student success!