RPL Guide – Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge (3009250)

Prior learning recognised

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can occur within this course for:

• Formal learning – learning gained through study in a structured, accredited program that leads to the full or partial achievement of a qualification; and/or
• Non-formal learning – learning gained through study in a structured, non-accredited program (such as a short course, seminar, or professional development) that does NOT lead to a qualification; and/or
• Informal learning – learning gained through years of paid or voluntary experience, professional standing or performance.

If your prior learning is already recognised for credit, you’ll find it in the Credit Search and Calculator.

Credit thresholds

The following credit may apply:

• 16 units (192 Credit Points) is normally awarded for completion of a related Australian Associate Degree, or equivalent;
• 12 units (144 Credit Points) is normally awarded for completion of a related Australian Advanced Diploma, or equivalent;
• 8 units (96 Credit Points) is normally awarded for completion of a related Australian Diploma, or equivalent;
• 4 units (48 Credit Points) is normally awarded for completion of a related Australian Certificate IV, or equivalent

If you believe your prior learning exceeds these thresholds you should request a waiver of normal credit limits by email to enquiry@scu.edu.au.

For more information about a comparable overseas qualification, non-accredited study and the years of experience that may substitute for holding an Australian qualification, view Appendix A of the Advanced Standing and Recognition of Prior Learning Policy - Schedule 1.

A link to Schedule 1 is found in Clause 13 of the Advanced Standing and Recognition of Prior Learning Procedures.

Related fields of prior learning

Currency

If your prior study or experience occurred more than ten years ago, you should provide supporting documents to demonstrate the ways you have generated and maintained currency of practice, due to more recent and ongoing learning in a relevant field, through professional memberships with peak bodies, on-the-job training, professional development or research.

Mandatory units

There are two mandatory units not eligible for recognition of prior learning:

• INDG2005 – Working with Aboriginal Communities I – Professional Engagement
• INDG3002 – Independent Study: Indigenous Research Project

Apply for Credit

It is important to apply for credit as early as possible.

If you apply for direct admission with Southern Cross University using our online application for admission, in the Advanced Standing section indicate that you wish to be considered for credit by selecting yes from the drop-down box.

If you wish to be considered for credit after course commencement, use your Student ID to log in to the My Enrolment portal. Select eForms from the menu bar to complete and submit your Advanced Standing application at least:

• Four months before commencement of a field placement/professional engagement unit; or
• One month before commencement of coursework unit.

Credit granted will affect the units you choose in your study plan. Don’t enrol in a unit for which credit is sought. For more information view How to apply for Credit.

Your portfolio of evidence for experience

A minimum of three years’ full-time equivalent paid/voluntary experience at ANZSCO skill level 1 or 2 is required to be granted credit for informal learning.

If you apply based on informal learning (work experience), read the Portfolio of Evidence for Experience - Guidelines which will help you use the Portfolio of Evidence for Experience - Form to describe and provide evidence of how your knowledge, skills and experience meet unit learning and assessment outcomes.

The supporting documents you submit must include:

• A current résumé or curriculum vitae detailing past and current experiences (including dates and hours of service) for the positions or roles you have held; plus
• Other primary and secondary evidence, including personal, workplace and third-party information from the list of supporting documents for verifying professional experience and expertise.

After you’ve applied

The outcome will be emailed to you within twenty working days of receiving your application, unless further clarification or supporting documents are required, in which case we will contact you.

If you haven’t enrolled in units via My Enrolment, do so now using the recommended course progression. For personal assistance with your study plan don’t hesitate to contact us.

Your right to appeal

If you disagree with the outcome, you may appeal within ten working days of the credit decision. The appeal will be commenced within ten working days and should take no longer than ten working days for an outcome to be reached. Within this time, you may be invited to participate in an interview and/or offered an alternative means of establishing the level of your existing skills and knowledge, such as a challenge test or special project.

You will receive notification about the outcome of the appeal as soon as possible.

If the decision maker is the Course Coordinator, any appeal is to the Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic QualityDeputy) and their decision is final. If the decision maker is the Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic Quality), any appeal is to the Chair of Academic Board and their decision is final. Any student dissatisfied with the outcome may appeal externally to the relevant Ombudsmen Office.

Exit award thresholds

If you exit with the Diploma of Indigenous Knowledge, any credit greater than 4 units (48 Credit Points) will be rescinded (withdrawn).

Scholarships and other opportunities

There will be many benefits available to you as a student at Southern Cross University. One benefit is access to a range of Scholarships, bursaries or rewards to assist with your study costs. For useful tips and instructions on how to apply go to Applying for a scholarship.

For more information view Getting started at SCU or the Student Handbook. If you still have questions Contact us.