Prior Learning Assessment

Contact Us

Prior Learning Assessment
University of Southern Maine
253 Luther Bonney Hall
P.O. Box 9300, 96 Falmouth Street
Portland, ME 04104-9300

(207) 780-4663
Toll-free 1-800-800-4876, x4663

Joyce Lapping, Director
jlapping@usm.maine.edu

Kate Mitchell, Assessment Associate
katem@usm.maine.edu

Louise Nisbet, Staff Associate
lnisbet@usm.maine.edu

Anne Russo Ladd, Test Coordinator
arusso@usm.maine.edu

If you would like to explore the possibility of earning credit for college-level learning competencies gained outside the traditional classroom, working with the Office for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) may be a fruitful decision. PLA may save you both time and money, shortening and/or easing your path to degree achievement. Our services are available to the general public as well as to USM students.

USM's Prior Learning Assessment program is an academic function. As such, PLA invites the approval and involvement of the faculty in all credit decisions, and is consistent with USM's mission to "provide a wide range of programs responsive to students diverse in age, background, and experience, many of whom are part-time employed and/or commuter students." Credits are issued in compatibility with the University of Maine System, which grants credit for a minimum of C level work.

Please note that Prior Learning Assessment fees and credit outcomes are subject to periodic revision, which may not be reflected here until web site updates are completed.

PLA may be able to reward your learning with one or more of the testing options, credential reviews, military evaluations, and/or portfolio development options presented on this web site.

Use your browser's print function for copies of forms and informational resources, available in Adobe PDF format. Students are required to bring or mail to USM the required forms and fees for all processes. PLA is working on providing electronic processing for the future.