We recognize that adults may have acquired college-level learning through life experience such as self-directed study, paid employment, volunteer work, travel, and non-college courses. Through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process, learning may be recognized for credit in college programs.
PLAR Policies and Procedures
- Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition POLICY
- Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition PROCEDURES
- Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition PLANNING AND REPORTING FORM
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Process:
Adequate time is required for consideration and evaluation of PLAR requests. Candidates must plan in advance. If planning to use PLAR towards a program or course requirement in an upcoming term, candidates should normally initiate their requests 3-4 months in advance of the start of the term. All candidates are encouraged to check with the Education Advisor.
Steps:
A. Apply
- The candidate submits application for admission to College of the Rockies (the College) program.
- The College determines the candidate to be eligible for admission.
B. Preliminary Information on PLAR
- Potential candidate and Education Advisor discuss general process of PLAR.
- Education Advisor may initiate discussion with the relevant Department Head on the availability of a Faculty Assessor.
- Faculty Assessor considers request and decides if PLAR is possible in accordance with limitations specified in the policy. If the request is denied, the Faculty Assessor must provide a rationale.
C. Plan
- Faculty Assessor and candidate discuss options and complete PLAR Planning and Reporting Form, including signatures to agree to the stated expectations and terms.
- The candidate registers and pays fee for course(s).
D. Complete Activities
- In consultation with the Faculty Assessor, the candidate completes and submits required activities/evidence of prior learning.
E. Evaluation
- Faculty Assessor evaluates submissions and assigns a grade.
F. Reporting
- Faculty assessor completes PLAR Planning and Reporting Form to document the grade and submits to the Office of the Registrar to update the student’s record.