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How students can turn work experience into college credit

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6min 13sec
On campus at Colorado State University Pueblo. March 3, 2026.
Ryan Warner/CPR News
On campus at Colorado State University Pueblo. March 3, 2026.

For college students who have front-loaded their lives with work, there is a way to translate that experience into college credit. Schools are increasingly offering Prior Learning Assessments (PLAs). Dean of Extended Studies at CSU Pueblo Kathryn Starkey says the approach can save students time & money and boost graduation rates.