SUNY Sullivan Expands Opportunities to Earn Academic Credit for Real World Work Experience with Credits for Prior Learning Program

SUNY Sullivan Expands Opportunities to Earn Academic Credit for Real World Work Experience with Credits for Prior Learning Program

Loch Sheldrake, NY – Another way SUNY Sullivan is helping speed students to degrees! SUNY Sullivan’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) gives students academic credit for real-life knowledge and skills. Credit for Prior Learning transforms students’ work experiences, professional training, military service, and independent learning into academic credit. CPL saves students money and time.

SUNY Sullivan’s CPL follows national best practices. CPL looks at a wide range of experiences, even including standardized examinations like CLEP (College-Level Examination Program and college-designed challenge exams. Community service, military education and training, and other life experiences that align with academic course objectives could be eligible for credit. Additionally, credits may be awarded for industry-recognized certifications, and completed training programs. Trained staff and faculty will walk students through the process.

Anthony Dos Santos enrolled at SUNY Sullivan to earn his AAS in Emergency Management after more than 20 years in county law enforcement. He used Credit for Prior Learning to earn credits through work experience. “The ability to apply for Life Credit played a significant role in helping me complete my degree program,” Officer Dos Santos said. “To be able to use prior ‘work’ education and experiences greatly reduced my course load and ultimately expedited my degree.”

Students enrolled in the CPL program can earn up to 75% of the credits required for their degree, certificate, or micro-credential through this flexible option. Every student’s prior learning is assessed individually to ensure that their unique experiences are recognized.

“Over the years, students gain valuable knowledge and experience,” said Jaime Schmeiser, Director of Workforce Development at SUNY Sullivan. “With CPL, students can turn that experience into college credit. It’s a faster, more cost-effective path to earning your degree. Not only will it boost your confidence, but it’ll also bring you closer to your goals—and maybe even that dream job—sooner than you imagined.” 

To find out more about SUNY Sullivan’s Credits for Prior Learning Program, please visit: sunysullivan.edu/credits-from-prior-learning/. For more information, contact Dean Jason Kaplan,, at 845-434-5750 x3129, or jkaplan@sunysullivan.edu. Check out the  SUNY Sullivan website at sunysullivan.edu/admissions. The admissions team is eager  to assist in any way. Contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@sunysullivan.edu or 845-434-5750 x4255.

About SUNY Sullivan: SUNY Sullivan is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, SUNY Sullivan offers dozens of degree programs, certificates, and microcredentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.