Non-Credit Learning and Credit Pathways

Cleveland State University recognizes that meaningful learning can occur outside of traditional academic courses. Through the Division of Continuing & Extended Education (DCEE), students may complete workforce training, industry certifications, professional development programs, microcredentials, and other non-credit learning opportunities that may connect to future academic pathways.

In some cases, learning completed through CSU non-credit programs may be eligible for review through Cleveland State University's Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) framework.

Who Is This For?

This pathway may be appropriate for students who have completed:

• Workforce training programs
• Industry certification programs
• Professional development courses
• Microcredentials
• Open Rapids certificates
• Other CSU-sponsored non-credit learning opportunities

How Does It Work?

1. Complete an eligible CSU non-credit program.
2. Meet with a program representative to discuss available pathways.
3. Learning may be reviewed for alignment with a CSU certificate or degree program.
4. If an approved pathway exists, academic credit may be considered according to university policies and procedures.

Examples

• A student who completes a CSU workforce training program and later enrolls in a related degree program.
• A student who earns an industry-recognized certification through a CSU non-credit offering and wishes to continue into a credit-bearing certificate.
• A student who completes a microcredential and wants to explore whether the learning aligns with coursework in a related academic program.
• A student who completes an Open Rapids certificate and wants to understand how the experience connects to future educational opportunities.

Important Things to Know

• Not all non-credit programs are eligible for academic credit review.
• Completion of a non-credit course does not automatically result in academic credit.
• Credit decisions are based on approved pathways and academic review.
• Additional documentation or assessment may be required.

Questions?

For information about current programs and available pathways, contact:

wkfcedev@csuohio.edu