CSM Students Turn Real-World Experience into Credits Towards Their Degrees

College of Southern Maryland (CSM) graduate Ria Robinson completed her associate degree in just one year and is on her way towards a career dedicated to supporting veterans.

Robinson served in the United States Navy for more than six years, earning the rank of E-5 Petty Officer Second Class. Through the Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program, Robinson earned credits towards her Associate of Arts degree in Arts and Sciences, saving one academic year and thousands of dollars. The CPL program is one of the reasons she chose CSM.

“When you’re going back to school, starting from the beginning can be really discouraging,” Robinson said. “The CPL program encourages you to continue to push forward and is an incentive to come back. It’s saying, we recognize what you have learned, and we value your real-world experience.”

The CPL program evaluates and formally recognizes learning that students gained outside of a traditional academic environment. This could include employment or workforce training, military service, non-credit courses, independent study, or recognized exams. When prior experiences align with course learning outcomes, credits for that course may be awarded.

Completion Coordinator Julie Andrews said CPL can be the difference for some students crossing the finish line and earning their degree or certificate. 

“Many students returning to school after working or serving in the military don’t need to start at square one,” Andrews said. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and skills through their prior experiences. Recognizing that this knowledge matters builds confidence and encourages students to stay on track towards graduation.”

CSM is a member of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), a national nonprofit organization that supports adult learner success, and is a recognized leader in CPL and education to career pathways. The college is also a member of the CAEL Provider Network. According to CAEL, 49 percent of adult learners with CPL nationwide complete their degree or certificate program, compared to 27 percent of adult learners without CPL.

Not only does the program help students reach their educational goals faster, but it allows students to earn stackable credentials along with their degree, such as Letters of Recognition and certificates. It can also help students save thousands of dollars on tuition and associated costs. In FY25, 745 CSM students received CPL credits, saving more than $2 million.

For Robinson, these savings are carrying her into her next academic chapter. She graduated in May as part of a transfer agreement with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) and is on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in just one more year.

 “Going back to school at a later age has helped tremendously with time management and project management skills,” Robinson said. “I know what my end goal is and I’m here to take it seriously. CSM has helped me maximize my credits in the least amount of time, and in maximizing my transfer credits to UMGC.”

After completing her bachelor's degree, Robinson plans to earn a master’s in social work. She plans to serve as a Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) counselor with Veterans Affairs (VA) to give back to the veteran community, because she said, “There’s no one who understands the challenges veterans go through than other veterans.”

There are some guidelines to consider when applying for CPL credits. Some programs may have restrictions on what credits are accepted based on accreditation, licensure, or transfer agreement. Credits through CPL are also not calculated into a students’ grade point average (GPA).

Students are encouraged to visit the CPL website to review the available credit options. Advising can assist with questions about eligibility or applying for CPL credit.