Passing the History of the United States I CLEP Exam

There are no prerequisites required for this learning lens.

In the mid 1990's, a good friend of mine, Tony Haynes (then a sergeant in the Marines) tested out of four years of college. He used CLEP tests, DANTES tests, GREs, and credits earned from military training. Tony's study method involved making tapes from his notes so that he could study while working out, or driving to and from work. After he amassed enough credits, Tony was awarded a Bachelors of Science in psychology and sociology with a concentration in economics from Excelsior University.

This method of pursuing a degree allowed Tony the flexibility to study for exams even while deployed overseas. Much of what he studied has stayed with him. For instance, Tony studied and tested out of college level Spanish, and to this day he can speak the language fluently.

Using test-outs has allowed Tony to stretch his GI Bill beyond a four-year degree. Since he tested out of all of his undergraduate work, he is now applying his GI Bill to his MBA classes at the University of Phoenix where he is currently enrolled. Moreover, Tony's approach to learning as a way of life helped him transition out of the military successfully upon the end of his active service.

Tony's example inspired me to use a hybrid solution. After I got out of the Marines, I only had 13 months to complete an accelerated Associates program that normally would have taken 18 months. To make up the time, I followed Tony's example and used test-outs as a strategy to get four classes out of the way. I tested out of drawing, design, career development, and psychology. The strategy of self-study combined with college courses enabled me to earn an Associates degree when it would not have otherwise been possible.