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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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

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).