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PLAR for MMP

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition is a process that allows you to receive recognition for skills and knowledge that you have already acquired. Whether it's learning from previous post-secondary studies, work experience or independent study, PEMAC recognizes that relevant learning can take place in a variety of settings, both inside and outside the traditional classroom. Obtaining recognition for prior learning can reduce the amount of classroom time required to obtain the MMP Certification.

How Much Recognition Can I Get?

Module 1, "An Integrated Strategy for Maintenance Management" and Module 8, "Capstone" are compulsory (except for approved instructors - see PLAR option #4, below) and therefore not eligible for credit through PLAR.

You must submit an application form and fee for each Module for which you would like to have your prior learning assessed.

Am I a Good Candidate for PLAR?

To help you answer this question, here are some questions for you to consider:

  1. Do you have five or more recent years of experience in maintenance management?
  2. Do you have in-depth experience related to a specific MMP module?
  3. Has your learning progressed in this area over time?
  4. Do you keep up to date with changes in the field by reading, taking workshops and courses?
  5. Do you network with others in this area?
  6. Can you demonstrate your learning by submitting transcripts, taking a challenging exam or submitting documented evidence?

PLAR Options

Prior Learning can be assessed in one of three ways:

  1. Transfer Credit - If you have completed a comparable course (content, level and length) at another accredited institution, you may apply for an exemption. A course outline and transcripts will be required for the assessment. If you have completed the course outside of Canada, you are advised to have your credential assessed for Canadian equivalency before applying for an exemption. Two organizations that specialize in credential assessment are: ICAS, International Credential Assessment Service, www.icascanada.ca and WES, World Education Services, www.wes.org
  2. Challenge Exam - You can opt to challenge the final exam of the course. The exams are 3 hours in length and may have short answer, essay, or multiple-choice questions. Candidates must achieve a minimum of 60% on the exam.
  3. Portfolio / Interview - The candidate submits documentation describing his or her demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities for each of the learning outcomes of the course. The reviewer may interview the candidate for clarification or additional information.
  4. Because PEMAC approved instructors are assessed to teach a particular module using a portfolio/interview type of assessment and are held to a higher standard than those seeking PLAR for certification, approved instructors qualify for PLAR for any Module for which they've been approved (including 1 & 8). A PLAR application and payment of the fee is still required.

PLAR MMP Equivalency Matrix

To learn which courses have been evaluated and considered equivalent and which institutions offer these courses, download the the document below. 

Download the PLAR MMP Equivalency Matrix

PLAR Fees

DescriptionFee
PLAR by Transfer Credit: 

Course on PEMAC's equivalency matrix

$25

Course not on PEMAC's equivalency matrix

$125
PLAR by Portfolio / Supplementary Interview$150
PLAR by Challenge ExamTBD


Next Steps

  1. Express interest to get more information about applying for PLAR.
  2. You will receive an email with more details, application and payment information. 
  3. The average length of time to process a PLAR application, once received, is 4 - 6 weeks.

What if my PLAR application is unsuccessful?

You can re-apply for assessment one additional time for any given Module.