Acceptance of Non-Traditional Credit
Central Connecticut State recognizes that many valid learning experiences occur outside the traditional classroom. CCSU accepts from matriculated students the following types of non-traditional credit, up to a maximum of 30 credits of credit except for established special programs. When such credit is awarded, it is entered on the transcript but the grade is not included in the University grade-point average. Students should be aware that in all the instances described below, the rules for granting of credit for non-traditional learning may vary among academic schools and departments at CCSU, depending on the rules of external accrediting agencies and in accordance with departmental standards. Students should direct questions to the department chair.
Central Connecticut State University recognizes the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and will consider for course credit and advanced placement any higher level IB subject in which a grade of 5 or higher has been earned. Credit is awarded at the discretion of individual departments through the Office of Admissions and credit will be considered on a case by case basis.
Advanced Placement
The University accepts for college credit advanced placement courses taken in high school under the auspices of the College Entrance Examination Board's Advanced Placement Test Program provided the student achieves a minimum score of 3 on the test. Official score reports are requested by the Office of Admissions.
Credit for Standardized Examinations
Central Connecticut State students may earn up to 30 credits by examination from the College Level Examination Program of the College Entrance Examination Board (CLEP and DANTES) or any nationally-standardized examination. A student is permitted one trial for each examination and must achieve a score equal to, or higher than, the national norm for that particular examination to receive credit. Information about which examinations are approved for departmental credit and minimum score requirements is available from the Office of Admissions or the Office of Continuing Education. Official score reports are required by the Office of Admissions.
Credit for non-collegiate training programs
Many businesses and industries, and other non-accredited institutions, provide formal training for which some academic credit may be awarded. Central Connecticut State University will follow ACE recommendations on the acceptance of this credit as published in The National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs. CCSU also accepts credit for programs conducted by non-collegiate organizations not evaluated by ACE, according to specific local agreements that comply with Board of Governors for Higher Education regulations. Application of credit as it relates to the student's CCSU degree requirements will be determined by the student's major department. Official transcripts, diplomas or certificates are required. If there is not an ACE recommendation or existing local agreement for the training program, refer to "Credit for life or work experience" below.
Credit for life or work experience
While Central Connecticut State University itself does not evaluate life or work experience, the University will accept such credit as awarded by other regionally-accredited colleges and universities, to the extent that it is applicable to the student's degree program and providing it does not exceed 30 credits. Matriculated students who believe they are eligible for such credit are encouraged to contact Charter Oak State College.