San Bernardino Valley College Named College of the Year for Credit for Prior Learning Initiative

San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) has been honored as the College of the Year by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) for its exceptional efforts in advancing Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). This recognition highlights SBVC’s commitment to expanding educational access and career success for non-traditional students, including adult learners, veterans, and apprentices.

The award was presented during the CCCCO CPL Summit and underscores the impact of SBVC’s innovative approach to helping students leverage their prior experiences to achieve academic and professional success. “This recognition as MAP College of the Year is a real testament to the hard work and innovation of our MAP/CPL team and their dedication to serving our diverse student population,” said Dr. Gilbert Contreras, SBVC president. “San Bernardino Valley College is committed to providing opportunities that meet students where they are and help them reach their full potential.  This accolade is an enormous statement about SBVC’s commitment to improving access and success.”

SBVC’s CPL program, part of the California MAP (Mapping Articulated Pathways) Initiative, empowers students to earn college credit for skills and knowledge gained outside the traditional classroom. These credits can be awarded for military service, industry-recognized credentials, or successful completion of exams such as the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and College Credit by Examination (DSST).

Through CPL, students may receive up to 45 units of college credit, significantly reducing the time and cost required to complete their degrees. The program has already demonstrated measurable success, with SBVC earning top rankings in metrics like Potential CPL Savings, 20-Year Impact, and Overall College Metrics.

For more information on SBVC’s Credit for Prior Learning initiative, visit www.valleycollege.edu/cpl.