Mosaic Christian College (MCC) recognizes that students may acquire college-level knowledge and skills outside of traditional academic settings. The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate this learning and potentially receive college credit, reducing both the time and cost required to complete their degree. This policy ensures that the assessment and awarding of prior learning credit align with the standards of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and uphold the academic integrity of MCC’s degree programs.

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Eligibility
PLA is available to students enrolled in a degree or certificate program at MCC. Students must be in good academic standing to apply for prior learning credit. PLA is not intended for current or previously attempted courses but applies to college-level knowledge gained through professional work, ministry, military service, certifications, training programs, or other documented experiences.

 

Acceptable Forms of Prior Learning
Examples of eligible prior learning experiences include, but are not limited to:

1. Work experience with applicable skill development.

2. Ministry leadership and service.

3. Professional certifications or licenses.

4. Military training and service.

5. Continuing education courses.

6. Independent study or personal development aligned with course objectives.

Documentation Requirements
Students seeking PLA credit must submit a Prior Learning Assessment Portfolio that includes the following:

1. PLA Request Form: Official application specifying the course(s) for which credit is being requested.

2. Detailed Written Statement: Explanation of how their prior learning aligns with the outcomes and content of the requested course(s).

3. Supporting Documentation: Evidence verifying the experience and competencies, which may include:

   • Certificates, licenses, or transcripts from non-accredited programs.

   • Employer verification letters detailing roles, responsibilities, and skill development.

   • Work samples or project documentation.

   • Military records (e.g., DD Form 214, Joint Services Transcripts).

4. Course Alignment: Identification of the MCC course(s) for which the student believes their learning is equivalent, referencing specific course descriptions and learning outcomes.

 

Evaluation Process

1. Initial Review: The submitted portfolio will be reviewed by the Registrar’s Office to ensure completeness.

2. Faculty Assessment: The portfolio will be assessed by a qualified faculty member with expertise in the subject area. The evaluation will be based on the alignment of the student’s demonstrated knowledge and skills with the learning outcomes of the requested course(s).

3. Interview (If Needed): Faculty evaluators may request an interview or additional documentation to verify the student’s learning.

4. Decision: The student will be notified in writing of the evaluation outcome. Approved PLA credit will be recorded on the student’s transcript as “PLA Credit” and will not affect the student’s grade point average (GPA).
    

Credit Limitations

• PLA credit may not exceed 25% of the total credit hours required for a degree program, and this is only at the Bachelor's level.

• PLA credit will only be awarded for courses applicable to the student’s declared program of study.

• PLA credit is not guaranteed and is subject to evaluation.

Non-Transferability
PLA credit awarded by MCC is institution-specific and may not be accepted by other colleges or universities. Students are advised to consult with any future institutions regarding transfer policies.

 

Fees
A non-refundable PLA Evaluation Fee will be assessed for each course evaluation request. This fee covers the administrative and faculty evaluation process and is not contingent on credit being awarded.

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Appeals Process
If a PLA credit request is denied, the student may submit a written appeal to the Academic Affairs Office within 30 days of receiving the decision. Appeals must include:
 

• A statement explaining the basis for the appeal.

• Any additional supporting documentation.

 

The Academic Affairs Office will review the appeal and provide a final decision within 14 business days.

 

Policy Review and Updates
This policy is subject to periodic review to ensure compliance with accreditation standards and institutional best practices. Updates will be published in the MCC Student Catalog and on the college’s website.

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Contact Information
Questions regarding the PLA process should be directed to the Registrar’s Office at info@gomosaic.college.