Accreditation of Prior Learning

Credit is an educational currency that measures the amount of learning achieved at a given level. Roughly 10 hours of student effort equates to one credit. We have adopted a modular structure and credit accumulation and transfer framework (known as MODCATS) for the delivery of our courses.

A module is a component of a course with its own approved aims, objectives, and assessment methods. It carries a number of credits at a given level. A standard module equates to 20 credits, a double module to 40 credits, and a half module to 10 credits. The normal workload for a full-time undergraduate programme of study, within the standard academic year, is 120 credits. This corresponds to 36 to 42 hours of study each week, including class content, practical work, fieldwork, private study, etc.

An honours degree requires a total of 360 credits. Typically, students complete 120 credits at each of three levels (Level 4, Level 5, and Level 6). Although the overall credit requirement remains the same, some honours degrees may vary the minimum credit required at each level. Part-time students can complete their programme on a module-by-module basis. If in doubt, check with your Course Leader for specific credit requirements.

If you are considering claiming credit for prior learning, feel free to contact our Admissions Team. They can help you determine if you are eligible.

Your prior learning must be at a higher education level, which means it should be above A Level qualifications and comparable to the module you are trying to claim.

For certificated (APCL) learning

You need to provide transcripts or certificates. If the qualification is over five years old, you may also need to demonstrate how you have kept your skills up to date through a statement of currency.

For experiential (APEL) learning

You must show what you have learned by submitting a portfolio of evidence for assessment. It’s important to note that the credit is awarded based on the learning itself, not just the experience. Different individuals might learn different things from the same experience, so the focus is on identifying and evidencing the learning.

Key points to remember

• The prior learning must be at an appropriate level, meaning it should be of equivalent standard to the learning achieved by students in taught modules on the course, even if acquired differently
• The learning must be evidenced effectively
• If you have any doubts or need assistance, feel free to ask our Admissions Team

You can check your qualification on the Register of Regulated Qualifications to find out the level. Degree level qualifications are from Level 4 and upwards.

Standard full-time undergraduate levels

• Level 4 = Year 1
• Level 5 = Year 2
• Level 6 = Year 3

Standard postgraduate levels

• Level 7 and 8

If you believe you have certificated learning equivalent to the requirements for relevant modules within your programme, you can complete and submit an application form. Please include copies of transcripts and certificates as proof of the awards obtained.

Certificated learning can include:

• Study at another Higher Education Institution
• Distance or online learning
• In-house company training
• Professional or vocational qualifications
• Any other formal training that has been assessed

Please note, you cannot claim for training where only attendance was required.

Your application will be reviewed by an academic member of staff, and credit will be awarded for your learning if appropriate, subject to ratification by an Assessment Board.

What can I claim for?

You can match the learning to:

• Specific module(s) on your programme
• Elective module(s) listed in the electives catalogue, if your course allows for free choice electives
• Elective accreditation

Elective accreditation applies where the subject matter does not need to correspond with a course or subject offered by the University, but the level and volume of study has been verified by UCLan or another higher education institution.

You cannot claim for part of a module.

You can claim credit by submitting a portfolio of evidence as negotiated with the Course Leader for your chosen programme. The process involves identifying and providing evidence for learning that matches the requirements of:

• Specific modules
• Named electives
• Generic or APEL electives (if your course includes a free choice elective)

You'll work independently but will receive support and guidance from an academic.

Once you have identified the relevant learning, you'll compile evidence of that learning into a portfolio. This should include a reflective account. A reflective account of learning focuses on the academic nature of your experiential learning.

This portfolio is assessed against the learning outcomes required for each claimed module, and credit is awarded if appropriate.

The maximum credit you can be awarded is two-thirds of the total credit requirement for your course. This is whether you are claiming credit for certificated learning, experiential learning, or a combination of both.

However, if you are using a prior qualification at the same or a higher level than the one you are studying with UCLan, the maximum credit you can be awarded is reduced to one-third.

These limits apply to both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. You cannot gain a university qualification through APL alone. Both full-time and part-time students can apply for APL, but full-time students must study at least five modules during an academic year to retain their full-time status.