University of Phoenix helps working adults understand how prior learning may count toward a college degree

During National Transfer Student Week, credit mobility expert Devin Andrews shares guidance on evaluating learning from work, training and life experience.

PHOENIX, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix is helping working adults better understand how knowledge and skills gained outside the traditional classroom may qualify for college credit. During National Transfer Student Week, Oct. 19–23, Devin Andrews, vice president of Admissions and Evaluation at University of Phoenix, is sharing practical guidance on credit for prior learning (CPL), including how individuals can identify eligible learning, navigate the evaluation process and potentially reduce the time and cost of completing a college degree.

A University of Phoenix survey conducted by The Harris Poll found that while 90% of U.S. workers spend time learning or developing new skills at work, 41% do not believe professional training courses can count toward a degree. The findings underscore an opportunity to increase awareness of how eligible college-level learning from professional training, military service and other experiences may be evaluated for academic credit.

"Working adults develop knowledge and skills throughout their lives, but many don't realize that learning may have value toward a college degree," said Andrews. "Credit for prior learning is about recognizing and evaluating what individuals have already learned, whether through professional training, military service or other relevant experiences. Helping adults understand these opportunities is an important part of making higher education more accessible and responsive to their lives."

Beyond recognizing existing knowledge and skills, credit for prior learning is an affordability consideration that can help eligible students reduce the number of courses required to complete a degree, potentially saving both time and tuition. At University of Phoenix, students who received credit for prior learning saved an average of $5,555 in tuition across their degree program during fiscal year 2026.

How can working adults earn college credit for prior learning?

Credit for prior learning recognizes demonstrated college-level knowledge acquired outside traditional college coursework. Through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and other evaluation methods, eligible learning may be applied toward degree requirements.

Andrews recommends three steps for adults exploring these opportunities:

• Identify relevant learning and experience. Review professional training, industry licenses and certifications, military training and other learning gained through work or life experiences that may qualify for evaluation.
• Document and demonstrate what you've learned. Gather training records, certifications and other supporting materials. Depending on the institution and type of learning, assessments or portfolios may be used to demonstrate college-level knowledge.
• Understand how credit applies to a specific degree and impacts its cost. Ask how eligible credits would apply toward a selected degree program, how many courses would remain and what the estimated tuition and fees would be after applying those credits. Understanding these details before enrolling can help adults make informed decisions about their education and plan for costs with greater confidence.

For adults who previously attended college, Andrews recommends reviewing and documenting earlier coursework for transfer credit consideration by the potential institutions, a separate but complementary opportunity to build on prior academic achievements.

Andrews has also contributed to the national conversation on credit mobility through research and professional engagement, including her white paper, "Untapped Potential: How Credit for Prior Learning Can Redefine Employer Outlook on Professional Development." The analysis explores how recognizing prior learning can support working adults' educational pathways and employers' workforce development strategies.

Explore credit for prior learning and other saving opportunities

Working adults can explore potential credit opportunities through the University's Prior Learning Assessment resources and learn more about available savings opportunities at phoenix.edu/savings.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

SOURCE University of Phoenix