Ways to Earn Credit

There are several ways to earn the credits you need to reach your academic goals.  You could think of your program as a jigsaw puzzle you are completing, with pieces that come from the categories listed below.  Be sure to explore the possibilities with your academic advisor and/or staff in the WED Office, Learning Resource Center, and Career Development.

Earn credit through SWMC distance learning courses

Through independent study or online.

Transfer Credit

College courses taken at accredited institutions of higher education are likely to transfer into the Woods External Degree program.

To qualify:

• The grade must be at least a C.
• Certain dated (older) credits may not meet current general studies or major requirements.
• If the credits are too old or you attended an unaccredited institution, you can show your learning is valid and current with an exam over the course content.

Alternative Format (AF) Courses

Alternative Format (AF) courses are on campus, usually on the weekend.

• Courses meet all day and include a variety of learning activities.
• Work will be required before the first and after the last class, and in between meetings.
• AF courses are a great way to meet other students and interact with instructors in class.  

Assessment of Prior Learning (APL)

Document your prior experience and qualify for college credit.

• This is college-level learning you’ve done “on your own” – at home, work, through volunteer activities in your community, church, etc.  
• College faculty will assess your prior learning application; you may be awarded APL credit, for which there is a per credit fee.
• APL credit can apply to general studies, major, or elective requirements for graduation
• Maximum 30 hours of APL credit.
• Read more information about our Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) Procedures (PDF) and Instructions for Submitting your APL Portfolio (PDF)

Training Programs

Training programs, such as those offered by the military, the American Bankers Assn., Certified Professional Secretaries, etc., that have been evaluated by the American Council on Education will grant you college credit.  With documentation, college credit is awarded to you at no cost.

Exams

• National exam programs include CLEP, DANTES (military), and AP (high school).
• CLEP exams may be taken at SMWC or elsewhere and are relatively inexpensive.
• See WED student handbook appendix or www.collegeboard.com/clep for more information.
• Read more information about the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) (PDF)
• Visit the Learning Resource Center to schedule an exam or to learn more.

Campus-based Courses

If your schedule and distance from campus permit, you may enroll in campus-based classes.

• Up to half your course load may be campus classes (which are daytime, weekday).
• Usually registration in August of January is required for this option.

Take courses elsewhere

You may enroll in courses elsewhere while enrolled in the WED program and then transfer the credits to SMWC.

• Courses must be pre-approved (in writing) so you're sure they will be accepted and know how they will be applied to your SMWC graduation requirements.