What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning or RPL is the recognition and validation of non-formal and informal learning as a means of fulfilling higher education entry requirements. RPL is a process used by TU Dublin in some cases to evaluate and recognise an individual's knowledge, skills and competencies regardless of where or how these were acquired. RPL aims to assess and acknowledge a person's learning achievements and provide appropriate credit or recognition for prior learning. It can be used for entry to programmes, advanced entry and for credits/exemptions.

By recognising the skills, knowledge and expertise that people have acquired outside formal education settings, RPL can help to meet existing and emerging skills needs at a faster pace by avoiding duplication of learning. The Enterprise Academy seeks to assist TU Dublin in its strategic objective to widen access to higher education by ensuring that the value of prior learning and experience is recognised and valued. In this way it can support the needs of enterprise and employers in respect of staff development and upskilling.

 

Recognition of Prior Learning at TU Dublin

RPL can be used for a number of purposes in TU Dublin including the following:

1. for entry to programme at the initial stage where the applicant may not meet the stated academic entry requirements
2. for advanced entry to a programme at a stage beyond the first stage or year
3. for transfer from one programme to another
4. for exemption from modules
5. for entry to postgraduate programmes where the applicant may not have the stated honours primary degree requirement
6. for application towards a full award, such as a doctorate.

Please note: Not all TU Dublin programmes offer RPL for entry, for transfer, for module exemptions or for full award currently.  Where RPL is available there may be specific conditions, limitations and application procedures.

The Academic Quality Framework Recognition of Prior Learning Policy was approved by TU Dublin Academic Council 22 June 2022 

One such successful RPL project is TU Dublin's BA in Journalism (RPL) that was carried out in partnership with TU Dublin School of Media and enabled experienced journalists to upgrade their diploma in journalism into a B.A Journalism degree with credit given for prior learning. Read our case study on RPL BA in Journalism here.

 

HCI Collaborative Projects: Navigating the RPL Journey: Engaging with Employers 

'Navigating the RPL Journey: Engaging with Employers', an event organised by the National Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project and TU Dublin Enterprise Academy, took place on Tuesday 16 January at Technological University Dublin and served as a vibrant forum for RPL leaders and practitioners to discuss the role of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in bridging the gap between higher education and the workforce, addressing skill shortages, and advancing talent development. National and international leaders on RPL took part in the event that featured a showcase of the innovative partnership between Screen Ireland and TU Dublin’s Enterprise Academy, a prime example of successful collaboration addressing skills needs through work-based learning and RPL. 

The Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project is a national initiative, which is a collaboration between the Technological Universities, the eight Irish University Association Universities including TU Dublin that is working to streamline and strengthen RPL across partner institutions, so that larger numbers of learners, particularly those in the workforce, can benefit from higher education. For more visit https://www.thea.ie/rpl/