Consultant for Prior Learning Assessment Policy Development

Overview: A leader in online and adult education is seeking an experienced consultant to support the development of institutional policies, procedures, and capacities related to Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). This contract position will focus on aligning the University?s transfer of credit policies and practices with the standards of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the best practices outlined by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). A key deliverable will be the creation of recognition processes for governmental training programs, including but not limited to police academies, ensuring equitable and rigorous evaluation of prior learning. Key Responsibilities: ? Review and assess existing transfer of credit and PLA policies at the university. ? Develop and refine institutional policies and procedures to align with DEAC accreditation standards and CAEL best practices. ? Design and implement recognition processes for prior learning from governmental training programs (e.g., police academies) and other relevant contexts. ? Collaborate with university stakeholders to ensure policies support equitable, transparent, and academically rigorous evaluation of prior learning. ? Provide recommendations for building institutional capacity in PLA administration and credit evaluation. ? Deliver clear, actionable documentation, including policy drafts, procedural guidelines, and implementation strategies. Qualifications: ? Graduate degree (Master?s or PhD) in Education, Higher Education Administration, or a related field. ? Demonstrated expertise in Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) policy development and credit evaluation. ? In-depth knowledge of institutional accreditation standards, particularly those of DEAC, and best practices in adult and experiential learning (e.g., CAEL frameworks). ? Experience working within online education or adult learning institutions is highly preferred. ? Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess and align policies with regulatory and institutional goals. ? Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience drafting policies and procedural documents. ? Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment. Preferred Experience: ? Prior consulting or policy development work with higher education institutions. ? Familiarity with evaluating training programs from governmental or public sector entities (e.g., law enforcement, military, or similar).