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Rules of the Senate

    1.7. Award of CPL for Industry-Recognized Third-Party Certifications

    1.7.1. Purpose

    KCTCS awards academic credit for industry-recognized third-party certifications when these credentials lead to mastery of course competencies.

    1.7.2. Definition

    Industry-recognized third-party certifications are specialized certifications recognized and validated by industry as preparing individuals for entry- to middle-skill jobs in specific industries. CPL equivalencies based on industry-recognized third-party certifications will be published in Credit Articulated from High School Program or from Prior Learning (sharepoint.com)

    1.7.3. Role of Faculty and Associated Procedures

    KCTCS technical curriculum committees shall periodically review industry-recognized third-party certifications in their industry for credit for prior learning and course equivalencies. When credit for prior learning is determined as appropriate, the curriculum committee shall inform the Faculty Senate and publish the equivalencies according to the Rules of the Senate. As new, relevant industry-recognized third-party certifications emerge, technical curriculum committees shall review the certification for their appropriateness and potential adoption for credit for prior learning. Program coordinators or their designees will meet with students to review and approve industry-recognized third-party certification documentation and advise them based on those equivalencies.

    1.7.4. Role of Administrative Staff and Associated Procedures

    • 1.7.4.1.
      • The registrar’s staff shall be notified of the student’s previous industry-recognized third-party certification as part of the admissions process, from a faculty member, or once the student receives the certification if they are already enrolled. A student who possesses an industry recognized third-party certification shall provide the registrar’s staff with an official transcript or record of their certification before they can receive any academic credit. Academic course credit awarded via industry-recognized third-party certifications does not count towards the residency requirement. KCTCS or individual colleges shall not charge students for the award of credit for prior learning based on industry-recognized third-party certification.
    • 1.7.4.2.