Prior Learning Assessment

Ferris State University recognizes that many non-traditional students have acquired college-level learning through independent study, work and life experience outside the traditional classroom setting. Often those experiences, which result in college-level learning, can contribute directly to fulfilling educational goals.

Ferris State University students have the opportunity to earn credit for what they already know. Credit may be earned by taking a proficiency exam or developing a portfolio for review.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a nationally recognized program of standardized tests made available to students. These tests cover a variety of subject areas. Ferris State University accepts several CLEP exams that can be used to waive course requirements. For example, passing the English Composition with Essay Exam will result in proficiency and credit for ENGL 150-English 1, or the College Algebra Exam can result in proficiency and credit for MATH 115-Intermediate Algebra. CLEP exams can be taken at Grand Rapids Community College any month during the year. It is highly recommended that the Program Advisor at FSU-Grand Rapids be consulted when students are considering an exam.

Visit the CLEP site of Ferris' Test Center for more information.

National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) exams can be taken to earn college credits in the B.A.S., Industrial Technology and Management degree. Students can take written exams in an occupational specialty area ranging from computer programming to welding. Contact the NOCTI office for more information regarding this program.

The Ferris Proficiency Examination is an academic test taken by a student to determine whether the student has completed minimum requirements of a specific Ferris class. If the student passes the examination, he/she is regarded as having the information necessary and is awarded credit for that particular class. No grade is given. There is a fee of $25 per credit that is paid prior to taking the exam. For information about a test for a particular course, contact the dean's office of the college the course is from.

A portfolio is a document developed in conjunction with faculty and a program or department to show what a student has learned relevant to a specific course. This portfolio, which demonstrates learning through experiences, is assessed by the faculty committee for prior learning credit.

The starting point for all of these options is the Program Advisor.