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Recognizing Prior Learning

Recognizing Prior Learning is the process of identifying, assessing and recognizing what a person already knows and can do for the purpose of awarding academic credit.

Canadian Labour Force Development Board, 1999

The Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL) process

  • assists you to seek recognition for what you know and can do.
  • is a way of obtaining credit for college-level knowledge and/or skills gained outside the classroom and through other educational/training programs.
  • compares prior learning gained from education, training, work, life experiences and personal study to the learning achieved in college courses.

If you are able to demonstrate that your prior learning is equivalent to what would normally be acquired through formal courses in the chosen area of College study, then credit is granted.

RPL is...

  • An alternate pathway to achieving a credit
  • A recognition of learning gained before entry to NSCC
  • A service for students who come with learning they can demonstrate is equivalent to the learning stated in course/program outcomes and outlines
  • A different kind of work, but an similar work load to being in the course

RPL is not...

  • An easier way to achieve a course credit
  • A recognition of experience(s)
  • Always a test or exam

Are You A Good Candidate For Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL)?

Take a few minutes to explore your own RPL potential.

  1. I have five or more years of solid experience, (gained through work, volunteer and/or leisure activities) in one field
  2. I have five or more years experience in fields related to my core field that collectively demonstrate a consistency of professional/vocational purpose
  3. I have a broad range of experiences, related to my core field or related fields
  4. I feel in control of my own successes and failures (most of the time)
  5. I am willing to assume new roles and responsibilities at work and/or in my extra curricular activities (within reason)
  6. I maintain currency in my profession or vocation by reading recent publications, by enrolling in credit or non credit courses and attending conferences, workshops
  7. I make a point of formally and informally networking with others in my profession or field
  8. I am currently or have recently been involved in community or volunteer activities to gain, enhance and/or to use my professional skills
  9. I would like to consolidate my diverse learning experiences by earning formal educational or professional recognition

If you said Yes to over half of these items this indicates a high probability of success.

If you said Yes to half or just under half then this indicates an average probability of success

If you said Yes to only one or two - don't be too discouraged. Make an appointment with Career and Transition Services where you may recognize skills and attributes that you have overlooked or discounted. Don't miss an opportunity to profit from your past.

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