Recognition of Prior Learning

RPL is for adult learners who have significant previous work and life learning such as:

• Independent/self-study
• Engaging in online self-directed learning (LinkedIn Learning, edX, Coursera, etc.)
• Volunteer activities
• Being coached, mentored, and receiving feedback
• Workplace training
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Professional development events
• Non-accredited certificates (IT Certificates, Project Management Certification, licenses, etc.)
• Continuing studies courses or programs

Learners should contact the RPL Office at the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development to discuss their eligibility to apply for RPL, and information and guidance on the RPL process.

You can contact the RPL coordinator to make an appointment by email at rpl@dal.ca.

The fee for the RPL assessment is $175 (non-refundable).

Advanced standing is the recognition of previous successful learning which may be relevant and may be applied to your current program. These prior studies are then credited to your current or future program which reduces the number of courses you need to complete in that program.

RPL assesses learning that you have gained through work and life experience or from non-recognized institutions.

Transfer credit involves the assessment of potential formal learning from other recognized post-secondary institutions (colleges, universities, etc.)

The number of credits available through RPL varies depending on the program selected. In almost all cases, the number of credits or courses awarded is less that 50% of the required total for a certificate program.

At this time, the Recognition of Prior Learning program is only applicable for certificate programs in the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development. 

Prior learning must have occurred within an appropriate time frame. Typically, this is within 10 years. However, this period may be shorter based on the program area and the currency/relevance of the prior learning (i.e. technology skills/knowledge).

The amount of time it takes to prepare an application (and possibly a learning portfolio) depends on how much time and effort you can commit to it.

Once received, the RPL Office aims to notify you with your RPL results within 4 weeks.

All RPL results and feedback are passed along through our student information system and you can access the Student Portal here. 

You can contact the RPL coordinator to make an appointment by email at rpl@dal.ca.

Yes, your military training can be assessed and recognized for academic awards through RPL.

Yes, an individual has the right to appeal any RPL result. An appeal must be submitted in writing to the RPL Office within five days of the RPL results notification. Individuals must provide sufficient proof of why RPL should be reconsidered. Appeals will be reviewed by the Program Director, Department Head, Associate Dean or Dean of the faculty that performed the original RPL evaluation. Any decisions regarding the appeal are final. Individuals will be notified by the RPL Office of the results of their appeal.