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Credit for Experience

As a UWW Interdisciplinary Studies student, you can bring in or earn up to 105 credits for your prior coursework, prior learning, and your work and life experience (up to 75 transfer credits + up to 30 UMass credits for the prior learning portfolio = 105 possible credits). 

Because what you've done in life matters, we respect the experiences you bring to the table—both in and out of the classroom. Unlike most universities, UMass Amherst allows you to earn “residence credits”—or UMass Amherst credits—in addition to transfer credits for your experience wherever possible, which has the potential to save you thousands of dollars on your degree. 

Prior Learning Portfolio

Unique to the UWW Interdisciplinary Studies program, you will complete a prior learning portfolio as part of your program requirements. The prior learning portfolio is a set of essays reflecting on your life and work experience, which will be evaluated and can be worth up to 30 UMass Amherst residence credits. You'll pay a fraction of the cost of online classes, which can mean a massive savings for you.

Transfer Credits

UMass Amherst has a generous policy, allowing up to 75 transfer credits from: 

  • Prior coursework from regionally accredited colleges and universities no matter how long ago you took your courses.
  • Professional trainings and certifications that are directly related to what you're studying once you're a student. Also, there is no per-credit cost for the transfer credits you get this way, which can save you money.
  • Military education through submission of your Joint Services Transcript (JST).
  • Credit exams (CLEP, DANTES, AP and SAT ll exams).