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Recognition of Prior Learning Policy

All applicants to UCD Innovation Academy’s courses must fulfill UCD’s minimum academic requirements for admission to a Level 9 programme. Under UCD’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy, consideration will be given on a case by case basis to applicants who do not fulfll these requirements. Full details of minimum requirements and the RPL policy are listed below.

MINIMUM ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR LEVEL 9 PROGRAMMES: 

Level 8 (Honours Undergraduate degree of 3-4 years) or Level 9 (Masters, min. 90 ECTS).

RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING:

Under UCD’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy, consideration will be given on a case by case basis to applicants who do not hold a Level 8 primary degree (Honours Bachelor’s Degree) but who fulfill any of the following criteria:

    1. Holding a Level 7 primary degree (Pass/Ordinary Bachelor’s Degree): upload your academic transcript of your Level 7 and demonstrate min. 2 years work experience on your CV. Professional references may be required.

    1. Holding a Level 9 degree/PGDip (60 ECTS): upload your academic transcript and demonstrate min. 2 years work experience on your CV. Professional references may be required. We do not accept Level 9 qualifications of less than 60 ECTS.

    1. No Level 7/8 primary degree and no min. 60 ECTS Level 9 : min. 5 years work experience and 2 recently dated professional/employment references required. Please ensure the references adhere to the following guidelines:

    • Referees must be from the professional experience listed on your CV. Professional experience includes both work experience and / or substantial voluntary roles (e.g. sitting on a school board or charity committee; prolonged engagement with a non profit organisation)

    • References must explain the context and area in which the referee has worked with you professionally

    • References must be personalised and speak to your professional qualities and accomplishments in the workplace

    • References should be on headed paper or from the referee’s workplace email address and should include the referee’s name, role and email address
    • References should be recently dated

Please also review your CV and Cover Letter to ensure that it clearly demonstrates the following:

    • Any experience of leadership and self-direction;

    • Any experience of management or entrepreneurship;

    • A description of any responsibilities that demonstrate accountability, resource management, or client engagement (if applicable).