College of Southern Maryland graduate Ria Robinson completed her associate degree in just one year and is pursuing a career dedicated to supporting fellow veterans.
Robinson served more than six years in the United States Navy, attaining the rank of E-5 Petty Officer Second Class. Through CSM’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program, she earned credits toward her Associate of Arts degree in Arts and Sciences, saving one academic year and thousands of dollars.
“When you’re going back to school, starting from the beginning can be really discouraging,” Robinson said. “The CPL program encourages you to continue to push forward and is an incentive to come back. It’s saying, we recognize what you have learned, and we value your real-world experience.”
Credit: College of Southern Maryland
The CPL program evaluates and formally recognizes learning gained outside traditional classrooms, including military service, employment, workforce training and other experiences. When prior learning aligns with course outcomes, credits may be awarded.
Completion Coordinator Julie Andrews noted that CPL often makes the difference for adult learners. “Many students returning to school after working or serving in the military don’t need to start at square one,” Andrews said. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and skills through their prior experiences. Recognizing that this knowledge matters builds confidence and encourages students to stay on track towards graduation.”
CSM is a member of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), a national leader in supporting adult learner success. According to CAEL, 49 percent of adult learners with CPL complete their programs compared to 27 percent without it. In FY25, 745 CSM students received CPL credits, saving more than $2 million.
For Robinson, the savings and accelerated timeline are propelling her forward. She graduated in May under a transfer agreement with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) and is on track to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology in just one additional year.
“Going back to school at a later age has helped tremendously with time management and project management skills,” Robinson said. “I know what my end goal is and I’m here to take it seriously. CSM has helped me maximize my credits in the least amount of time, and in maximizing my transfer credits to UMGC.”
After her bachelor’s, Robinson plans to earn a master’s in social work and become a Veteran Readiness and Employment counselor with the Department of Veterans Affairs. “There’s no one who understands the challenges veterans go through than other veterans,” she said.
The CPL program offers stackable credentials alongside degrees and has some program-specific guidelines. Credits are not calculated into GPA. Students should consult advisors and the CPL website for eligibility details.
