Women continuing their education may earn academic credits, start or complete an associate of arts or science degree, earn a first or second bachelor's degree, complete a professional certificate program, or take courses for personal enrichment.

Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) affords students the opportunity to earn credit for work and life experience through a portfolio assessment process. Up to 44 CPL credits can be earned for non-traditional learning which has occurred since graduation from high school. Through a combination of transfer credit and a CPL portfolio, a student may earn up to 96 credits toward the 132 credits required for an undergraduate degree from Pine Manor College.

The CPL Process
Students may begin the exploration process at the time of matriculation. They will become part of an advising group which will help the students recognize their experiential learning background. Students will be guided by the CPL Advisory Committee as they compile material supporting their experiential learning. Students receive support and personal attention throughout the CPL process.

The CPL Portfolio
The Credit for Prior Learning Portfolio presents persuasive evidence of college-level learning and includes the following:

1. An introductory essay that presents an overview of the student's academic plan. It links past experiences and future goals with an academic plan within the Pine Manor College curriculum. The essay is both reflective and speculative in nature enabling a student to gain greater understanding of her past achievements and to clarify her goals for the future.

2. A persuasive credit request essay for each course for which Credit for Prior Learning is sought. Full or partial credit may be requested for a course.

3. Direct documentation of experiential learning in the form of reports, memos, brochures, correspondence, notes or other direct evidence produced by the student that substantiates the learning activity.

4. Indirect documentation of experiential learning in the form of letters from supervisors, customers, suppliers, coworkers or others who can substantiate evidence of the learning activity.

At the time the portfolio is submitted for evaluation, a $400 portfolio fee is due.

Entrepreneurship Workshops
PMC and the Center for Inclusive Leadership and Social Responsibility are committed to providing resources and programs for new and established women entrepreneurs. Through collaboration with the New England Women Business Owners (NEWBO), the City of Newton and others, we develop and facilitate programs and promote networks that support women entrepreneurs.

Contact Patricia A. Forde, Director of Entrepreneurial Studies, for a schedule of upcoming workshops, weekend programs, and initiatives at 617-731-7051 or e-mail at fordepat@pmc.edu.