We value the experience many Gerontology students bring with them to our program. Relevant paid or unpaid experience can count towards the major or minor through Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).

What Is Credit For Prior Learning?

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to earn college credit for knowledge and skills they have gained outside of the classroom, such as through work or volunteer experience. The credit is awarded for what the student knows and can do, not just for having the experience. Academic credit earned through CPL may only be granted on a Credit/No Credit basis.

Satisfying Practicum Course(s) With CPL

The Gerontology practicum (GERO 130) and capstone practicum (GERO 131) courses provide hands-on, supervised experiences that apply gerontological knowledge while strengthening professional skills. Students who wish to use prior experience for credit must show that their experience involved professional development and applied gerontological learning at a level comparable to the practicum.

Students seeking CPL will be asked to describe specific and relevant experience that demonstrates competence in:

• Professionalism
• Interpersonal Skills
• Communication Skills
• Ethical Practice
• Learning and Growth
• Project Development and Implementation
• Gerontological Knowledge

Prior Learning Assessment

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process that allows learners to demonstrate their knowledge and skills and have that learning evaluated for college credit. Determinations will be based on:

• the student's resume (required)
• the student's self assessment (required)
• a current or former supervisor's assessment of the student (required unless not possible due to supervisor unavailability)
• other evidence such as official job description(s), documented completion of trainings, or examples of work products (optional)

The Prior Learning Assessment may be completed at any time. However, before academic credit earned through CPL becomes a part of the student's academic record, the student must:

• be matriculated at Sacramento State;
• have declared Gerontology as a major or minor; and
• have completed the prerequisite courses for the Gerontology practicum

How To Apply for CPL

Gerontology majors and minors interested in applying for Credit For Prior Learning should email ssis-gero-sc@csus.edu to schedule a meeting (virtual or in-person) with the Gerontology Department Chair to discuss their prior experience and obtain the self assessment and supervisor assessment forms.