Keith Donohue

How did you use RPL?

I used RPL to gain entry to the level 7 BSc in Quantity Surveying, as I had extensive experience in construction.

Tell us your Recognition of Prior Learning story?

I started in the construction industry at 16 years old as a general labourer, moving on from there to complete an apprenticeship in plastering. I worked my way up to a foreman role, then onto a project management position, so I had plenty of experience behind me. I was really interested in Quantity Surveying, and looking at courses online, and I was recommended to do the ATU Sligo Quantity Surveying course by a good few people that had studied there previously.

I decided to use RPL, as an option, as the L6 modules I wanted to do weren't available until the following year. I had started in a Junior Quantity Surveying role in my full-time job and wanted to complete the degree to go hand in hand while I worked. I felt that gaining entry to the level 7 degree while practicing daily at work, would mean I wouldn't be starting as a graduate QS once I had become qualified academically.

I came across the RPL option on the ATU Sligo website, while I was looking for ways to gain entry to the L7 course quicker. It was motivating to know I'd become qualified academically within a couple of years, leading to better career prospects. There were also great opportunities leading to further education opportunities, as the ATU Sligo course was recognised by the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland.

I contacted the RPL coordinator for ATU Sligo, Myra, who was fantastic to deal with. The process was explained clearly and really didn't take long at all. It saved me a full year of studying, and I will now hopefully gain my qualification quicker.

Studying while working can seem daunting to many people, especially mature students who are juggling life, family, training, working full-time and God forbid any kind of social life! But I'd highly recommended the RPL option to anyone who is looking to better themselves both professionally and personally. Even though I'm studying online, I still get to meet other students throughout the course with different projects or at exam time, and there are so many people in the same situation as myself. The delivery of courses online is excellent as the lectures are recorded. I find listening to them in the car is a great way to be proactive with your time, and just treat them as a podcast.

All in all I highly recommended using RPL as an excellent option when trying to gain entry to the courses in ATU, as I've had really positive experiences so far.

Why was RPL the right fit for you?

I have given myself a opportunity for promotions at work, by gaining a recognised qualification in less time. It's also helping so much by studying and working in similar roles at the same time.

How has RPL and higher education impacted you? 

It has provided me with an opportunity to start my Quantity Surveying career a lot sooner. By being accepted to the degree course through RPL, I was able to gain employment working as a Junior Quantity surveyor, meaning I wouldn't be starting as a full graduate when I finish my studies, as I will already have some experience behind me.

How would you describe your experience of the RPL application process? 

ATU Sligo were fantastic and helped a great deal in putting my application through. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who may be considering RPL as an option. It only took me a day or so, to get all the information together for the application. 

What advice would you offer someone looking into RPL in higher education? 

If you are in doubt about it or feel a bit nervous, then just  apply for the RPL and see what happens. If you have an interest in courses and have the relevant experience, then it's worth pursuing RPL to gain your qualification.