Alternative Opportunities for Earning Credit/Advanced Standing
Prior Learning Credit
Rockland Community College recognizes that learning takes place in a variety of situations and circumstances. The College may grant credit for college-level learning acquired as a result of work experience, volunteer work and community service. Many students have significant, demonstrable learning experiences outside the traditional academic environment. Therefore, prior learning, not life experience, is the basis for the award of college credit.
Rockland Community College will evaluate Prior Learning credits based on the degree or certificate the student intends to pursue at RCC. Prior Learning will be considered as part of the maximum allowable number of transfer credits (32 credits for degrees except for Automotive Service Excellence Certification A1-A8 and 15 for a certificate).
In no case shall the number of Prior Learning credits exceed half the number of credits required for the Concentration/Core emphasis with the exception of students entering with an Automotive Service Excellence Certification A1-A8.
Students must be currently enrolled in credit-bearing courses and complete that semester of enrollment in order to apply for this type of credit. The current procedure for receiving Prior Learning credits is as follows:
- The student may take a departmental challenge examination;
- The student may submit a portfolio (e.g. art, photography, etc);
- Credits are assessed and approved by the Department Chair, approved by the Division Chair, reviewed by the Director of Placement and Assessment, and approved by the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Services.
More information on the College's Prior Learning policy can be found on the College website at:
www.sunyrockland.edu/admissions/placement-assessment/prior-college-level-learning-credits
Advanced Placement Program
The College may grant credit to students who have successfully participated in the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board. Students who earn satisfactory scores on the appropriate examinations may be granted credit. Qualifying scores and the number of credits granted are determined by the individual academic disciplines.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Rockland Community College participates in the College Level Examination Program. Students who earn satisfactory scores on the appropriate examinations may be granted credit. Qualifying scores and the number of credits granted are determined by the individual academic disciplines. For a current listing of examinations and passing scores, or to arrange to take a CLEP exam, call 845-574-4525 or 845-574-4288.
Armed Forces Service Credit
A maximum of 3 Exercise and Human Performance credits may be granted to veterans who have served at least six months in the Armed Forces. The College may grant credit for some courses offered by the Armed Forces. These courses are reviewed by Records and Registration when the official transcripts are submitted.