Through a combination of PLAR and formal classroom learning you may be eligible to earn credit in some Douglas College courses and programs.
Not all courses in this list of programs are eligible for PLAR. To determine eligibility, program coordinators will review your documentation or interview you to find out how your prior learning matches the current course outcomes. Some courses are mandatory for all students, regardless of prior learning.
Individual courses in programs not listed here may be available for PLAR. To determine if the course is eligible for PLAR, please check the individual course guideline in the course catalog.
- Bachelor of Physical Education & Coaching (BPEC) - Fieldwork
- Classroom and Community Support
- Office Administration
PLAR and university transfer courses
If you believe that your learning from another post-secondary institution is equivalent to a Douglas College course, contact an Academic Advisor in the Registrar's Office at 604 527 5478. Please review the Douglas College course outlines to ensure the course content and expected outcomes match the learning obtained elsewhere.
How the PLAR process works
Working with field practitioners, professionals and college instructors, you set the goals, timelines and achievements as you work towards your educational and career goals.
Depending on the program area, you may choose a Portfolio-Assisted Assessment, a Work-based Assessment or a Challenge Examination.
Portfolio-assisted assessment
Using a self-directed advising manual under the guidance of an advisor, you create a comprehensive portfolio of your prior learning. Credit will be granted if prior learning is equivalent to what is normally taught in the courses requested for PLAR.
Workplace-based assessment
This is a demonstration of your learning or competency in either your usual work-based setting or a simulated setting if you are not currently working.
Challenge examination
The challenge exam is a formal examination that proves your knowledge in an academic subject. Faculty assessors will determine if the exam would be in an existing format or if an adapted version would better suit your needs. Please contact the Department for specific guidelines to writing Challenge exams.
Credit Granted
Academic credit will be granted if your prior learning is equivalent to what is normally taught in the courses that are open for PLAR. You will receive a final grade once the assessment process is complete.
How much credit can be earned through PLAR?
Each PLAR request is limited to nine credits per Request for Credit Form. You may make multiple PLAR requests. The College allows you to claim up to 75 percent of a credential by the PLAR process.
If you wish to claim more than 75 percent, your Department Coordinator may make a special request to the College for variance from this policy.
How long will it take?
Ideally, you will complete the process (one or more courses being assessed concurrently) within the same time span as a regular College semester. The completion time will differ depending on how much time you can devote to developing your portfolio, as well as any additional requirements such as accumulating volunteer hours or receiving requested documentation.
What will it cost?
The cost is based on credit equivalency and is due and payable prior to an Assessment occurring (for instance, portfolio assessed, challenge exam taken, or work-place evaluation). Current fees are available in the Douglas College Tuition Fee Chart.
This fee is payable in person at the Registrar’s Office, at either campus, and is to be presented along with the top portion of the Request for Credit Form completed and signed as indicated.
Please note that PLAR courses and credits are not eligible for Student Loans.