Guide

Apply for Recognition of Prior Informal Learning (RPIL) for postgraduate entry in the School of Health Sciences

Updated on 7 July 2023

Find out whether your previous educational and life/work experience can count for entry to postgraduate study if you do not have a degree already, and apply for this credit.

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We can assess your learning from previous educational and life/work experience.

Normally, we would require you have a first degree before entering postgraduate study.  We would expect applicants with degrees to have the following characteristics:

  1. knowledge base of a particular subject area which is informed by current developments
  2. an ability to communicate the results of your studies and other work accurately and reliably
  3. well-developed skills for gathering, evaluating and analysing information

Evidence needed

If you don't have a first degree, we ask for the following evidence to show you have these skills:

  • A summative piece of coursework recently completed for degree level study (completed within 5 years and at SCQF level 9). You should submit the confirmation of successful achievement of this work at the same time
  • A recently published article in a professional journal or a detailed work-based report where you were the sole/ main contributor.
  • A 2,000 word academic essay critically reviewing current literature on a given subject area. This should demonstrate:
    • knowledge base of a particular subject area which is informed by current developments
    • well developed skills for gathering, evaluating and analysing information.
    • an ability to communicate the results of their studies and other work accurately and reliably
  • A reflective portfolio of evidence (submitted electronically) which could include (but is not limited to):
    • video and/or audio material
    • analytical evaluations of practice
    • analysis of issues underlying practice and the learning associated with that
    • evidence of planning for practice
    • analysis and evaluation of training undertaken for practice
    • supporting statements from managers or supervisors in relation to practice
    • an assessor’s observation of practice
    • detailed curriculum vitae to support a context for the claim

As each student will have differing life experiences, the most appropriate options for individual students will vary.

Two reviewers (Programme Lead and Head of Studies) will assess this evidence and decide whether it meets the requirements for awarding credit.

We will let you know the outcome of our claim, and if it is not sufficient, we will give you feedback with the opportunity to revise and resubmit.

Our course leads can support you in preparing your evidence. Please contact HealthSciences-PostQualifying@dundee.ac.uk

All RPIL claims will be reviewed by an External Examiner and will be ratified by an Exam Board.

Charge for RPIL claims

There is a charge for processing all RPIL claims of £100 per 10 credits or £100 for entry. You need to pay this once the claim has been confirmed.

Apply for RPIL