Prior Learning Assessment

If you are working as an EA, and have worked more than 180 hours, you are eligible to apply for a Prior Learning Assessment to waive the practicum requirement for the EA program. 

A Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is a process to determine if prior course work or work experience is equivalent to part of a program at Coastal College of British Columbia (CCBC). CCBC recognizes that students may have successfully completed course work at another post‐secondary institution or have attained significant learning from work or training outside the formal post‐secondary education system. Those students who have gained such learning may be able to receive credit for that learning and build on it in pursuing further education at CCBC. Credit granted for PLA may be used to satisfy requirements for graduation.

CCBC recognizes the following prior learning:

• Work Experience: The student may provide confirmation of prior learning in a work experience setting. Where that work experience can be equated to the learning outcomes or objectives of a course or program at CCBC, credit will be granted.
• Coursework: The candidate may provide confirmation of prior learning in previously completed coursework to CCBC. Where that learning can be equated to the learning outcomes or objectives of a course or program at CCBC, credit will be granted.

Procedure:

1. The student submits a Prior Learning Assessment Form and supporting documents to practicum@coastalcollegeofbc.com providing proof of prior learning. For proof of prior coursework completed, a transcript must also be submitted. For proof of work experience, a formal evaluation must also be completed by an on-site supervisor using the Work Experience Evaluation Form and a letter of employment or a pay stub must be submitted.
2. The student pays the $100 assessment fee. The fee can be paid by e-transfer to payments@coastalcollegeofbc.com
3. An assessment of the PLA documents will be completed by the Senior Educational Administrator or the Director of Instruction within 5 working days.
4. Upon completion of the assessment, a copy of the form will be sent to the student and a copy will be kept in the students file.
5. An applicant who disputes the results of a Prior Learning Assessment may appeal that decision under the normal appeals process.
6. The credits achieved through PLA will appear on the student’s transcript.
7. The prior learning assessment process will be applied consistently to all students. Prior learning can be assessed up to 50% of the hours of instruction of a program.

Prior Learning Assessment Form – Click here

Work Experience Evaluation Form – Click here

EA Course and Textbook List – Click Here