Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) means a student is granted credit or partial credit towards a qualification in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training.

Within the Higher Education sector at Swinburne University, RPL involves the systematic assessment and acknowledgment of relevant and verifiable skills, knowledge and competencies acquired formally or experientially over the five years prior to application to undertake a course of study. Applicants are considered on their individual merits in accordance with Swinburne policies, consideration may be given to learning undertaken more than five years prior to application on the basis of ongoing learning.

Students that are granted RPL will be exempt from completing certain units within a course; or in the case of recognition of uncredentialled prior learning: may be exempted from completing units; or allowed to substitute more advanced units within the course irrespective of prerequisite requirements.

Visit the Swinburne Pathways Guide

Download an Application for Recognition of Prior Learning Form

Visit the Faculty of ICT website