Turn Experience Into Academic Achievement

About Career Studies

The Career Studies program is designed for students whose professional experience, prior learning, and career goals do not fit within a traditional academic pathway.

At CMCC, students work closely with advisors to create a customized degree plan aligned with their professional background, workplace knowledge, industry training, and long-term educational or career goals. The program is especially valuable for working professionals, adult learners, military and veteran students, and individuals seeking to complete a college degree while building upon existing experience and accomplishments.

Students may be eligible to earn academic credit through approved prior learning assessment processes, which can recognize relevant workplace training, certifications, military experience, professional development, and other documented learning experiences. Remaining coursework is selected collaboratively with advisors to create an individualized pathway connected to each student’s career focus and personal goals.

Rather than following a traditional one-size-fits-all curriculum, the Career Studies program provides students with the flexibility to combine academic coursework and professional experience into a degree pathway that reflects their unique background and future aspirations.

Earn credit for prior learning and professional experience through approved assessment processes.
Build a customized degree pathway aligned with your career background and goals.
Combine workplace experience with college coursework to complete an associate degree.
Designed for working professionals and adult learners seeking career advancement or degree completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Career Studies program designed for?

The program is designed primarily for working professionals, adult learners, military and veteran students, and individuals whose career goals or professional experience do not align with a traditional academic program.

What is prior learning assessment?

Prior learning assessment is a process that may allow students to earn academic credit for approved workplace training, certifications, military experience, professional development, or other documented learning experiences relevant to their degree pathway.

Is the Career Studies program customizable?

Yes. Students work closely with advisors to develop an individualized degree plan aligned with their professional background, educational needs, and career goals. Coursework is selected to support each student’s unique pathway.

Can this program help me complete a degree I previously started?

In many cases, yes. The flexibility of the Career Studies program may help students combine prior coursework, professional experience, and new coursework toward completion of an associate degree.

CMCC campus

Your Future at CMCC

Take the Next Step

CMCC campus