Marshall Jefferson University

Address
7901 4TH ST N, STE 300 ST. PETERSBURG, FL, USA 33702
Email
secretary@mj-university.org
Phone Number
+1 (786) 686-8402
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CURRICULUM BASED ON RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)

Marshall Jefferson University: RPL-Based, Adult Up-Skilling, and Certification

Overview

The RPL Philosophy at MJU

At Marshall Jefferson University, we firmly believe in the power and value of prior learning – not just what happens inside a classroom, but the knowledge, skills, and competencies that adults have acquired through work, life, and informal learning. Our educational model is built on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a globally recognized framework that formally assesses and validates informal, non-formal, and experiential learning against structured academic standards.

By centring RPL in our academic structure, MJU offers a pathway for adult learners to gain credits, certification or full qualifications without redundantly repeating learning they have already mastered. This means we accelerate their journey toward meaningful credentials and reduce both the cost and time typically associated with formal education.

Why RPL?

Why RPL Matters for Adult Learners

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) gives adult learners an opportunity to gain academic credit for the skills, knowledge, and experience they have already built through work and life. At MJU, our RPL process makes education more accessible, flexible, and aligned with real-world career growth.

1. Inclusive Access

Many adult learners have never followed a traditional academic trajectory - they may lack formal qualifications but have decades of valuable experience. Through RPL, MJU provides alternative access routes into higher education and certification programs. This aligns with global frameworks that treat RPL as a way to forward entry or credit for non-traditional learners.

2. Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness

Instead of repeating what they already know, students undergo an assessment-only process, where their prior experience is evaluated and mapped to MJU’s competency-based curricula. This can save significant time and money because learners don’t need to retake modules for which they already demonstrate mastery.

3. Lifelong Learning & Career Growth

RPL empowers working professionals to convert their work experience into formal certification, helping them up-skill, re-skill, or make career pivots. It’s especially powerful in fast-changing industries where real-world experience is as valuable as academic credentials.

4. Recognition & Validation

By assessing prior learning through rigorous, evidence-based methods, MJU validates adult learners’ competencies in a way that is academically defensible and globally credible.
How RPL Works

How RPL Is Implemented at Marshall Jefferson University

Our RPL process is designed to fairly evaluate your professional experience and map it to academic outcomes. Each step ensures transparency, flexibility, and learner support throughout the journey.
Application & Self-Assessment
  • Prospective students submit a portfolio or dossier of evidence: this may include work samples, project reports, employment records, reflective narratives, certifications, and references.

  • They also complete a self-assessment where they map their experience against MJU’s learning outcomes or competency standards.
    • Assessment by Qualified Evaluators
  • MJU trains dedicated assessors (with subject-matter expertise) to review submitted portfolios. Assessors compare the evidence against clearly defined learning outcomes.

  • The assessment is competency-based; it may involve interviews, challenge exams, or demonstrations (depending on the field).
    • Gap Analysis & Learning Plan
  • Where there are gaps between a learner’s demonstrated competencies and MJU’s program requirements, we develop a personalized up-skilling plan. This plan might include taking particular modules, micro-credentials, or bridge courses.

  • This ensures that every student attains the full competency set required for certification.
    • Awarding Credit/Certification
  • Based on the assessment, MJU grants credit (or exemption) for prior learning, which may reduce the number of courses a student needs to take.

  • In some cases, learners might earn a full qualification or certification, depending on how well their prior learning aligns with the program’s requirements.
    • Continuous Support & Mentorship
  • Adult learners often benefit from tailored support — MJU provides mentors, RPL advisors, and online resources to guide them through the process.

  • We also encourage reflection, so students can articulate and deepen their professional learning in academic terms.
    • Awarding Credit/Certification
  • Based on the assessment, MJU grants credit (or exemption) for prior learning, which may reduce the number of courses a student needs to take.

  • In some cases, learners might earn a full qualification or certification, depending on how well their prior learning aligns with the program’s requirements.
    • Impact & Benefits

    Impact & Benefits for MJU and Learners

    • Increased Access

    By recognizing prior learning, we open doors for learners who may have been excluded from traditional higher education.

    • Reduced Barriers

    Adults can gain credentials without redundant coursework, making education more affordable and time-efficient.

    • Workforce Relevance

    Graduates bring both academic validation and real-world experience — making them highly competitive in the workforce.

    • Social Equity

    RPL supports social inclusion by validating diverse learning pathways (work, life experience), not just formal academic backgrounds.

    • Scalable Growth

    As a digital university, MJU can scale its RPL-based model globally, reaching adult learners in multiple geographies