The latest episode of "Telling Our Story," the American Association of State Colleges and Universities podcast, brought national attention to Lehman College's successful Credit for Prior Learning initiative (CPL), which has increased student retention and graduation significantly  over the past two years. CPL—also known as alternative credit options—allows students to earn elective credits through various approved programs.  

President Delgado, Vice President for Enrollment Management Richard Finger, CPL coordinator Alisa Cooper-Spain, and two Lehman alumni who benefited from the program spoke to host Leticia Maldonado about the initiative and how it addresses impediments to graduation such as unmet liberal arts credit requirements and delayed credit transfers.

Unlike traditional CPL programs, Lehman's is not only focused on granting adult learners credit for educational experiences outside the college classroom, but extends to traditional students who may be a few credits shy of graduating. "We've leveraged this program to promote opportunities for students to complete their degree when they've satisfied all the other remaining requirements to graduate," said Finger.

CPL may be granted for certificates, military service credits, and second language competencies, among numerous options. 

Listen to the podcast and learn more about CPL at Lehman.