No matter where you are in life, you are college material

The idea of going back to college can seem overwhelming. That’s why we are here to help you succeed. Dakota County Technical College provides great support for adult learners, including:

• Full-time and part-time scheduling
• Customized advising to develop a plan just for you
• In-person, online, hybrid, accelerated, and evening courses
• In-person and online tutoring so you can work smarter and faster
• Scholarships, support and more for students who want to finish college
• Options to apply your experience, training and knowledge toward your degree

Wondering if your work experience could count for college credit? Consider Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is academic credit that is awarded to students who can successfully demonstrate college or university-level learning achieved through informal or experiential learning outside of the classroom. You could have your learning evaluated for academic credit, saving you time and money toward earning your degree.

Unsure of what type of CPL you should do? Check out at this handout and/or contact Kirsten Nelson, DCTC transfer coordinator, at kirstin.nelson@dctc.edu or 651-423-8420. See below for more CPL information.

Now is the time!

Call 651-423-8000 and/or attend an Adult Learner Info Session.

WHAT: Adult Learner Info Session

WHEN:

Tuesday, December 2, 2025 • 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
(Dakota County Technical College)

RSVP

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 • 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
(Inver Hills Community College)

RSVP

Learn about both colleges at either session.
Application fees will be waived if you apply that day.

WHERE:

Dakota County Technical College (DCTC)
1300 145th Street East
Rosemount, MN 55068
Location & Maps

Inver Hills Community College
2500 80th Street East
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Maps & Directions

Big goals, but not much time? Discover flexible courses designed for busy adults at both DCTC and Inver Hills. Come explore how college can fit your life, not the other way around.

RSVP to complete the following:

• Meet faculty and get a feel for campus
• Learn about Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and credit transfer
• Talk to Admissions and get your college questions answered
• Explore scholarships, financial aid, and how to pay for college

DCTC and Inver Hills: Spring semester classes start January 12, 2026

Find Inver Hills spring semester classes
Find DCTC spring semester classes

DCTC: First summer session classes start May 19, 2026
Inver Hills: First summer session classes start May 26, 2026

Find Inver Hills summer session classes
Find DCTC summer session classes

DCTC and Inver Hills: Fall semester classes start August 24, 2026

More about CPL at DCTC…

Prior Learning Assessment

DCTC offers Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) in a variety of subject areas, and the assessments are created by DCTC Faculty. A CPL assessment can be in any of the following formats:

• Exam
• Portfolio Review
• Skills Demonstration
• Interview

In addition to the assessment above, every student pursuing CPL will be required to submit an updated resume with their work experience. CPL is Pass/No Credit. If you pass, you will earn credit for the equivalent course that you took the assessment for.

Learn more about CPL by contacting Kirsten Nelson, DCTC transfer coordinator, at kirstin.nelson@dctc.edu or 651-423-8420.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Our institution provides credit for successful scores on several CLEP exams. The table linked below lists the exam(s) for which credit is granted, the required score, and the equivalent course you could earn credit for.

View the CLEP Equivalency Chart (PDF)

How do I prepare for a CLEP exam?

Utilize resources below that provide sample test questions, exam topics, and other suggested study resources.

→ Prepare for an Exam — CLEP | College Board
→ CLEP Courses: Online Classes with Videos | Study.com
→ Modern States — Free online prep courses

How do I get credit for CLEP?

Review the equivalency table linked above and check your DCTC degree requirements to ensure the course you are taking the CLEP Exam for will count toward your degree.

When you register for a CLEP exam, request that a copy of your score report be sent to DCTC. After receiving your score, DCTC will upload your exam score into your Degree Audit, and you can see how your credits transferred.

I’m ready to take a CLEP exam. What do I do?

STEP ONE: Decide which exam is right for you.
STEP TWO: Register online through the CLEP website: clep.collegeboard.org/register.
STEP THREE: Call the testing center you chose to schedule your exam. If you chose Inver Hills Community College as your Testing Center, please email testingcenter@inverhills.edu or call 651-450-3650 to schedule your appointment.
STEP FOUR: Pay the administration fee (paid to the Testing Center) and the CLEP Exam Fee.

LEARN MORE…

DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)

DSST is an internet-based training program that allows you to earn college credit. DSST exams are scored individually and include the option to retake after 30 days if needed. Minimum score is different on each test. Tests are pass/fail. There is no limit on the number of tests you may take per Minnesota State. Residency requirements must be met.

LEARN MORE…

Industry Credential Crosswalks

Many industry trainings and certificates that can potentially be worth credit. Our faculty have examined the credential in their area and have aligned them to DCTC courses. If you have any of these credentials that will also align with the program you are taking at DCTC, fill out the form provided and present a copy of your current-non-expired certificate or training.

LEARN MORE…

Learn more about opportunities for adult learners at DCTC by contacting:

Admissions
admissions@dctc.edu
651-423-8266
Room 2-110