Credit by prior learning assessment (PLA) is the practice of recognizing, evaluating, and awarding credit for university-level learning acquired outside the confines of university-sponsored credit instruction.  The objective of prior learning assessment is to identify student competency for a specific set of learning outcomes.  Credit for PLA is awarded based on assessed learning outcomes, not for experience.  Credit is documented and represents university-level achievement and competency of learning outcomes that are equitable to those assessed within a conventional university course.  Evaluation of learning considered for credit by PLA is conducted by qualified academic subject matter or credentialing experts, based on standards and criteria that measure appropriate levels of learning and guided by established learning assessment practices and methodologies.

GSM programs may include the transfer of credit for prior learning attained through (1) industry exams and credentials and (2) internal assessment. 

• Industry exams and credentials: External assessment of workplace-based or industry training that includes a required demonstration of competency that, upon review of a verified content expert, results in licensure or certification through a professional organization or association. 
• Internal assessment: An assessment of prior learning that was created by and administered by Marquette University and evaluated by a content expert within Marquette University.

Limits are placed on the number of credit hours that may be transferred from PLA and other institutions in order to protect the integrity of the Marquette degree programs.  Normally, a maximum of six credit hours from PLA and/or an outside accredited master’s program are transferred with the consent of the Graduate School of Management. Exceptions to this limit are rare and must be submitted in writing to the director of the appropriate master’s program and the Graduate School of Management.  Credits transferred for PLA will receive a “PLA” grade and are not included when calculating a student’s GPA.  Credits transferred for PLA may be used for Satisfactory Academic Progress calculations by Financial Aid but do not factor into enrollment status.

Within GSM programs that accept a transfer of credit for PLA, approved industry exams, credentials and internal assessment will be described within the program requirements section of the academic program within the university bulletin.  Approved prior learning must be completed within the five years prior to a student’s term of master’s degree program matriculation.  Further requirements such as requiring active licensure may be required and are described within program requirements.

It is the student’s responsibility to request the transfer of credit for approved industry exams and credentials and internal assessment through the Graduate School of Management’s master’s degree transfer of credit form, available on the Graduate School of Management forms website after completing at least six credits as a degree-status student in their Marquette master’s program.