Prior Learning Assessment

Strategies to Recognize Previous Learning

Emily Carr supports the development of a broad range of strategies for the recognition of prior learning, encourages flexible and responsive assessments, and ensures educational standards are maintained.

Prior learning assessment (PLA) is an assessment of non-formal education. You may seek PLA credits at Emily Carr for what is considered to be knowledge attained through significant work, life experience, or non-formal learning equivalent to Emily Carr courses.

Not all courses are available for PLA.

Preparing a Portfolio

You'll need to prepare a portfolio directly related to the outcomes of a course(s) for which you are seeking credit. Qualified faculty assessors review each formal application and assess the level of knowledge, skills, and abilities to determine if course credit may be granted.

Your knowledge must be current, verifiable, and of sufficient breadth and depth to equate with University level outcomes. You'll receive credit for demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities, not for experience alone.

PLA Policy for Emily Carr University of Art + Design

In order to be considered for PLA, you must have been admitted to the University through the regular admissions process.

  • Normally, no more than 50% of the credit required for a degree is PLA credit. This will include transfer credit.
  • PLA credit awarded at other provincial post secondary institutions in accordance with provincial standards and guidelines will be accepted as transfer credit.
  • Emily Carr reserves the right to review your portfolio if you are requesting PLA.
  • Assessor recommendations for PLA credit will be subject to the approval of the Dean.
  • Successful assessments will be assigned a letter grade, be calculated in your grade point average, and recorded on your academic record. Unsuccessful assessments will not be recorded on your academic record.
  • PLA will not be considered for courses previously failed.

For the 2009/2010 academic year, the cost to PLA each three credit course is as follows:

Assessment: $175.00
Transcripting: $168.35
Total: $343.35

PLA Contact
Academic Advising Office
Phone: 604.630.7426