Recognising Excellence in RPL Learners at Maynooth University

Maynooth University are committed to inclusivity and academic excellence to drive efforts to make higher education accessible to a diverse range of learners. A cornerstone of this mission is the Taught Masters Scholarships, which leverages the Recognition of Prior Learning framework to create new opportunities for individuals who bring unique, real-world expertise to their studies. These scholarships enhance access to postgraduate education and underscore the transformative potential of recognising and valuing learning that occurs in formal, informal, and experiential contexts.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the traditional pathways to higher education are evolving. By embracing RPL, Maynooth University acknowledges the richness of prior experiences and offers learners a platform to further develop their skills, expand their knowledge, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Recognition of Prior Learning: A Bridge to Academic and Professional Advancement

The RPL framework at Maynooth University is a holistic approach to admissions and scholarship assessment. It reflects recognition of the diverse ways in which learning occurs—whether through professional experiences, volunteer work, community engagement, or self-directed study. For applicants who may not meet conventional academic prerequisites, RPL provides a pathway to postgraduate study that values their unique journey and contributions.

The Taught Masters Scholarships represent a significant step in widening participation by supporting learners who demonstrate exceptional potential and commitment to their chosen fields. Through RPL, these individuals are not only granted access to higher education but are also celebrated for the distinctive insights and expertise they bring to the academic community.

Carol Lynch RPL Project Lead at Maynooth University, highlights the significance of these initiatives:

“At Maynooth University, we have a strong commitment to inclusivity and excellence in higher education. We are very privileged to welcome students from diverse global learning backgrounds, enriching our academic environment with their unique perspectives and experiences. These students not only enhance the learning experience of their peers but also contribute invaluable insights to the wider University community.

Our Taught Masters Scholarships for RPL learners represent a significant step in acknowledging the excellence of learning acquired through formal, non-formal, and experiential contexts. Scholarship applicants are assessed holistically, considering the depth and breadth of their prior learning as well as the potential impact they can make in their chosen field of study or discipline.

The Impact of RPL at Maynooth University

The impact of RPL is evident in the Department of International Development, which has welcomed a diverse cohort of scholars through its RPL-supported postgraduate programs. Over the past three years, students have joined programs such as the MA in International Development and the MA in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice, bringing with them a wealth of experience from around the globe.

Among these students are Irish Aid Fellows from countries including Cambodia, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Zambia, as well as Irish-based learners who have benefitted from RPL pathways. Their contributions to the academic environment extend far beyond the classroom, enriching the learning experience of peers and faculty alike.

Thomas Campbell , Lecturer and Coordinator of the MA in International Development, reflects on the value of these students’ contributions:

“The Department of International Development Maynooth University has welcomed a significant cohort of RPL scholars on to it’s postgraduate programmes (the MA in International Development; and the MA in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice), over the last three years, including a number of Irish Aid Fellows from countries as diverse as Cambodia, Ethiopia, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. Several Irish based students have also benefited from the RPL admission route, including one notable Maynooth Sanctuary scholar recently arrived from Afghanistan whose work as a journalist and researcher on gender equality, human / LGBTQ+ rights?has received international recognition.

All of these students would have held some kind of Degree or third level qualification but not at the level required for standard admission. By having an opportunity to gain admission to a postgraduate programme of studies via RPL has been life changing for these students. In my role of postgraduate programme coordinator with the Department of International Development since 2021 I have observed how the incredible wealth of life and work experience – often at senior level with various international and national governmental and non-governmental development agencies – that these students bring to their studies in Maynooth has undoubtedly enhanced not only their own personal learning journeys but also that of their (non-RPL classmates) who have benefited enormously from the richness of in-class discussions and interactions."

Profiles of Excellence: Stories of RPL Learners

Lutea Magaia Alberto

Lutea, an agronomic engineer with over a decade of experience in environmental management and sustainable practices, exemplifies the impact of the Taught Masters Scholarships. With a focus on climate action, she has collaborated with stakeholders to develop adaptation and mitigation strategies in sectors such as mining, transportation, and ecosystem recovery. Now pursuing an MSc in Climate Change at Maynooth University, Lutea continues to apply her expertise toward addressing some of the most pressing global challenges.

Catherine Coughlan

Catherine, an accountant with over 20 years of volunteer experience in Irish NGOs, recently completed an MA in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice. Her background in finance and development studies, combined with her commitment to fostering peace and socio-economic development, positions her as a leader in engaging the African diaspora in transformative initiatives. Catherine aspires to leverage her expertise to drive business and entrepreneurship across the African continent.

Alex Kayee

Alex, a civil society activist and youth development specialist from Liberia, has dedicated over a decade to promoting democracy, human rights, and civic engagement. As the Advocacy and Community Engagement Manager for a prominent civil society organisation, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his postgraduate studies. With the support of a Taught Masters Scholarship, Alex is pursuing an MA in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice, furthering his mission to empower communities and foster sustainable peace.

RPL as a Catalyst for Lifelong Learning

The impact of RPL extends far beyond individual success stories. By opening doors to higher education, it creates a ripple effect, benefiting not only the students themselves but also their classmates, instructors, and the wider university community. The unique perspectives and experiences of RPL scholars enrich academic discussions, encourage cross-cultural understanding, and inspire innovative approaches to global challenges.

By valuing diverse forms of knowledge and expertise, we are building an academic environment that celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration, and prepares learners to make meaningful contributions to society.

Building Pathways to Higher Education

The Taught Masters Scholarships, grounded in the principles of RPL, exemplify Maynooth University’s dedication to transforming lives through education. By expanding access and opportunities for diverse learners, the University showcases its commitment to inclusivity and lifelong learning.

These initiatives encourage the broader community to celebrate the achievements of RPL scholars and recognise the profound impact that inclusive educational practices can have on individuals and society.

Learn more about the National RPL Project at priorlearning.ie

See the impact of RPL with Learner Stories on our YouTube Channel.