Principles: while there are normally defined academic entry requirements for university programmes, it is appropriate that the University has mechanisms to allow entry to applicants who do not meet the normal requirements, but who have equivalent learning achievements which adequately prepare them for the programme. Each application requires individual review, taking into consideration a number of factors, including;
(i) Flexibility to admit applicants from a range of backgrounds,
(ii) Ensuring the highest standards within programmes,
(iii) Avoiding admitting students to programmes for which they are poorly prepared.
There are two processes in use:
- Non-standard applicants: this process is used where the case is being made that the applicant’s academic qualifications should be considered as the primary basis for admission. This may be supplemented by relevant professional experience.
- Recognition of prior experiential learning (RPEL): this is used where the applicant’s professional experience is being used as the primary basis for admission. This request form should be used in tandem with an application on the Postgraduate Applications Centre, www.pac.ie. *For applicants registering for a Springboard or Human Capital Initiative funded programme, this request form should be used in tandem with an application on the Springboard website, www.springboardcourses.ie, and should not come through the Postgraduate Applications Centre. It should be submitted well in advance of the commencement and registration of the programme. For most programmes, registration is in August and September each year.
Non-standard applicants
The applicant should document academic courses successfully completed prior to making this application. Where there is also relevant professional experience, the Department will normally review a written personal statement and interview the applicant.
Recognition of prior experiential learning (RPEL)
An initial application is made to the Department concerned, and normally involves a written statement and an interview. Following this, a recommendation is made to the Registrar, who may approve progression to the portfolio stage. As a second stage, the applicant is required to produce a portfolio demonstrating the relevant experience and capacity. This portfolio is reviewed, and used as the basis for a decision on admission.
*Springboard+ / Human Capital Initiative Pillar One Applicants
Please complete and submit the following form with your application on the Springboard Courses website: R8, Recognition of prior learning/Non-standard entry
You do not need to include a PAC Number on your form.
PAC Applicants
- You can start your application on the PAC.ie website.
- As part of the normal PAC application process, you will need to indicate via a tick box that you are interested in RPEL entry and download the RPEL form
- Upload the completed form back into PAC.ie as part of your online PAC application
- The Department will acknowledge receipt of your application via the PAC.ie system
Please contact the relevant programme coordinator if you wish to apply via RPEL. Their contact details can be found by following the course links in the What courses are available? tab above.
