At ECT we recognise that learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom. You may already have gained valuable knowledge through previous study, professional experience or workplace learning.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows eligible students to have this learning formally recognised, which may reduce the number of modules or programme components they need to complete.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that assesses your previous learning against the learning outcomes of your chosen programme. There are two types of RPL available:
RPL for Prior Learning (Credit)
RPL for Workshops and Placements
You may be eligible to receive academic credit for:
Applications for academic credit are assessed individually, and a non-refundable assessment fee of £150 will apply.
If you have already completed relevant professional training or gained appropriate workplace experience, you may be eligible for recognition relating to workshops or placement components of your programme.
There is no fee for eligible workshop or placement RPL applications.
You may be eligible if you have:
Each application is assessed on its own merits.
Review the different Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application forms below under the section ‘Which application form do I need?’ and select the one that matches the type of recognition you are seeking. If you are unsure which form to use, please contact the Admissions team for guidance. If you are a prospective student, please contact us to request the application form. Current students can access the form and guidance on the Academic Support Hub on Moodle.
If you are applying for recognition towards modules in an upcoming study period, your application should normally be submitted at least 15 working days before teaching begins. Please note there is a £150 non-refundable fee for credit applications.
Your application should include evidence relevant to the type of RPL you are requesting. This may include:
Providing complete and accurate documentation will help ensure your application can be assessed efficiently.
Your application will be reviewed by ECT academic staff.
They will compare your previous learning and experience against the learning outcomes of the relevant module or programme.
As part of the assessment process, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview.
Once all required documentation has been received, you will normally receive a decision within four weeks.
Your application may result in:
If approved, your decision will explain the credit or exemptions that have been granted.
If you choose to accept the RPL decision, your programme will be updated to reflect any approved credit or exemptions.
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application process varies depending on the type of recognition you are seeking. Please use the application form that best matches your circumstances.
Form A: Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Modules)
Apply for academic credit based on previous formal study or recognised qualifications.
Current students seeking credit towards taught modules through prior certificated learning.
Form B: Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Modules – Experiential Learning Only) (Bachelor programmes only)
Apply for academic credit based on relevant professional or workplace experience rather than formal qualifications.
Bachelor programme applicants seeking credit through experiential learning.
Form C: Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (0-Credit Professional and Industry Experience Modules)
Apply for recognition of relevant professional or industry experience for eligible 0-credit modules.
Current students wishing to receive recognition for professional or industry experience where no academic credit is awarded.
Form D: Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (Bachelor Programme Hands-on Workshops)
Apply for recognition of previous learning or experience relating to Bachelor programme hands-on workshop requirements.
Current Bachelor students requesting exemption from eligible hands-on workshops.
Form E: Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (Master’s Professional Practice Hands-on Workshop)
Apply for recognition of previous learning or professional experience relating to the Master’s Professional Practice hands-on workshop.
Current Master’s students seeking recognition for the Professional Practice hands-on workshop.
Applications for academic credit based on previous study or prior certificated learning have a £150 non-refundable fee.
There is no fee for eligible applications relating to workshops or placement recognition.
No. Every application is assessed individually against the learning outcomes of the relevant programme or module.
Yes, only to Bachelor programmes. Relevant professional or workplace experience may be considered where appropriate evidence is provided. Relevant professional or workplace experience cannot be used towards credits for Masters programmes but can be used towards the workshop and placement modules.
Evidence may include academic transcripts, qualification certificates, a CV, employer references, job descriptions and details of your previous learning or professional experience.
If you’re unsure whether your previous qualifications or professional experience may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning, contact our Admissions team and they will be happy to discuss your circumstances and guide you through the application process.