Recognition of Prior Learning Policy

The purpose of our policy

Our policy outlines the principles that apply to recognition of prior learning at Adelaide University.

It provides authority to maintain our Credit Procedure. 

Who our policy applies to

Inclusions

This policy applies to prospective and current students who apply for or receive recognition of prior learning credit towards an enabling program, or undergraduate or postgraduate coursework program.

Exclusions

This policy does not apply to Adelaide University students undertaking micro-credentials or short courses.

Our Recognition of Prior Learning Policy principles

1. Adelaide University is committed to recognising the contribution of students’ prior learning towards their program requirements.
2. Credit may be granted for formal, informal, and non-formal learning with guidance on eligibility provided to prospective students in a clear, transparent and publicly available credit framework.
3. Credit determinations will be: 
   • evidence-based, equitable and transparent
   • academically sound
   • applied consistently and fairly, and subject to review.
4. Credit will be granted for prior learning that is relevant and equivalent to the learning required for the courses for which credit is sought.
5. Credit will only be granted if it:
   • maintains the credibility and integrity of the program for which credit is sought
   • does not contravene the conditions of the program’s professional accreditation
   • does not disadvantage the student’s ability to achieve the expected course or program learning outcomes.

Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Credit means the value assigned for the recognition of achievement of prior learning. Credit reduces the volume of new learning required to achieve a university qualification.

Enabling programs develop student skills and knowledge necessary for successful participation in university study.

Formal learning takes place through a structured program that leads to the full or partial achievement of an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) award or international equivalent.

Informal learning takes place through work and other experiences, outside of a structured program.

Non-formal learning takes place through a structured program but does not lead to a qualification.

Prospective student means a person who has contacted Adelaide University or an agent representing Adelaide University with the intent of becoming a student.

Recognition of prior learning is the process by which an individual’s relevant prior learning (including formal, informal, and non-formal learning) is assessed to determine credit that may be granted towards completion of an Adelaide University award program.

Student means a person enrolled in an enabling program, award or non-award coursework study, a research program, or a short course or microcredential at Adelaide University.

Our Recognition of Prior Learning Policy’s procedure

The following procedure is part of our Recognition of Prior Learning Policy suite.

How our policy is governed

Our Policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

Legislation and other documents related to this policy

History of changes

Note on structures, positions and position titles:

At the time of writing, the organisational structure, positions, committees, or any other unknown item etc. for Adelaide University have not been confirmed. Accordingly, square brackets [ ] temporarily enclose such information in this procedure until confirmed.