Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) for Advanced Standing

Get a Head Start in Your Undergraduate Program

Applicants who are eligible for regular admission to an undergraduate program may be considered for advanced standing in recognition of their prior learning.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) allows students to receive academic credit for relevant learning gained outside of traditional university coursework, provided it meets Brock’s established academic standards.

If you believe you have already gained the knowledge and skills normally taught in a Brock course, you may request to have that learning assessed. You will be asked to provide evidence demonstrating that your learning meets the course learning outcomes.

Prior learning that is assessed as equivalent to the learning outcomes of a Brock course may be awarded academic credit.

Assessment methods may include:

  • Learning portfolios
  • Challenge exams
  • Case studies or assignments
  • Structured interviews
  • Demonstrations of applied knowledge
  • Other assessment methods as determined by the Brock subject matter expert

If your PLAR assessment is successful, you may be able to save time and potentially reduce the cost of your degree. Students have used this process to reduce the number of courses required to complete their program or to move more quickly into advanced coursework.

What Counts as Prior Learning?

Prior learning can come from many different experiences, including:

  • Professional or workplace experience
  • Industry certifications or professional training
  • Military service
  • Land-based learning
  • Cultural gatherings
  • Independent study
  • Community leadership or volunteer work
  • Non-credit courses or continuing education
  • International education or training that cannot be directly transferred for credit
  • and so much more….

The key question is whether your learning matches the learning outcomes of a Brock course, and can you prove it?

Important Information

  • Prior learning may be assessed up to one year after your offer of admission to Brock
  • PLAR for Advanced Standing is not available for all courses (Not all programs participate in PLAR)
  • Courses must be approved for PLAR assessment before you begin the process
  • Academic credit may be awarded when the prior learning clearly demonstrates the achievement of the course learning outcomes, as determined by the subject matter expert

The PLAR Process

Step 1 — Confirm Eligibility

You must be offered regular admission to a Brock undergraduate program.

Step 2 — Identify a Course(s)

Review the undergraduate calendar to consider where your previous learning might meet course learning outcomes.  Look for connections and linkages between the course description and your previous learning experiences.  Discuss with your program advisor that you are considering a PLAR assessment for a course. Work with them to determine whether there is a course(s) that fits well with your program plan.

Step 3 — Submit a PLAR Request

Email [email protected] to set up a free consultation. Submit a request for PLAR assessment for the specific course. During the consultation, a manager will review your request and experience profile. If the program department approves the PLAR assessment for the requested course, you will be notified that you can move forward with the assessment process.

Step 4 — Complete the Assessment

You may be asked to submit a portfolio or complete an exam, assignment, interview, or other evidence of learning. The manager will provide guidance with this process.

Step 5 — Receive a Decision

A Brock subject matter expert will evaluate your submission and determine whether academic credit will be granted. The subject matter expert’s decision is final.

Preparing a Strong PLAR Submission

Students are most successful when they clearly demonstrate:

  • What they learned
  • How they learned it
  • Evidence that supports their learning
  • How their learning meets the course outcomes

There is a long list of examples in the PLAR Guidebook.  Some examples of evidence may include:

  • Work samples or reports
  • Professional documentation
  • Certificates or training records
  • Reflective explanations of learning
  • Supervisor verification letters

The PLAR Guidebook will be provided once it has been determined that the process might be a good fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PLAR the same as transfer credit?
No. Transfer credit is awarded for learning completed at another recognized educational institution. PLAR assesses learning gained outside traditional academic settings.

How many credits can I earn through PLAR?
Credit limits may vary by department.  Confirm the PLAR credit limit with the manager.

Is there a fee?
PLAR assessments do not require a fee at this time.

Will PLAR grades affect my GPA?
PLAR credits are awarded and can be reviewed on your advanced standing record.  Numerical grades are not assigned to these credits and do not affect your cumulative GPA. Acceptance of PLAR credits varies by institution. Students intending to pursue further studies elsewhere are responsible for reviewing the policies and regulations of the receiving institution regarding the recognition of PLAR credits.

Contact

For more information about PLAR for Advanced Standing, contact [email protected]