PLAR for Legacy Students
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition
Any BSW student who has two or more years of Social Work employment experience in the past 5 years may choose to apply for eligibility to register for Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR), in lieu of their first field placement requirement.
PLAR
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a process of recognizing the prior learning of skills and knowledge in social work practice. This can be through formal and informal study in a variety of settings as well as through a diversity of experiences. PLAR provides a mechanism for identifying, documenting and evaluating learning, thereby acknowledging and giving credit to students for demonstrated learning.
PLAR is an option available to any BSW student, regardless of the program delivery method. A BSW student who has two or more years of Social Work employment experience in the past 5 years may choose to apply for eligibility to register for SWRK 3152 - PLAR, in lieu of their first field placement requirement.
If you have been admitted into the Faculty of Social work program before 2023 you are considered a Legacy student if you have been admitted into the Faculty of Social work program after 2023 you are considered a contemporary student.
If you are a Distance Delivery student the required forms for your application will be posted in the Distance Delivery Student Portal in UMLearn.
If you are an Inner City, Fort Garry or Northern student please email the BSW PLAR email and request the application booklet be sent to you. bswplar@umanitoba.ca
Application deadlines:
Summer & Fall 2024 - February 1
PLAR FAQS
When is the deadline to apply for PLAR?
The deadline to submit your PLAR application is annually on Feb 1st.
Your application needs to be submitted in full, to be considered by the PLAR Applications Committee.
What if I want more information before I submit my application?
The PLAR Application Committee Chair offers information sessions annually throughout Fall Term leading up to the application deadline. If you require more info, please consider attending a session.
Can I complete PLAR over the summer?
Yes, on your PLAR Application you can choose:
- Summer Term – May-August
- Fall/Winter Term – September-April
Can I complete PLAR and Second Field at the same time?
No. PLAR is in lieu of first field placement.
Is PLAR cheaper than Field?
No. Field and PLAR are equivalent in cost and credit hours.
Can I challenge the PLAR application process?
No. PLAR is a challenge of first field. You are applying to participate in the PLAR course whereby you are completing assignments throughout the academic term (Summer or Fall/Winter), to demonstrate your knowledge and prior learning.
You are required to submit the application in full, along with all required letters, resume, self-evaluation, and three references.
Is there a limit to the number of students accepted into PLAR?
No. If you are eligible and your application is approved, you can register for PLAR for the upcoming term.
What is considered a PASS in PLAR?
Students are required to have a 65% or greater to PASS PLAR. PLAR is a PASS/FAIL course and is not calculated in your GPA.
Who teaches PLAR?
There is no formal instructor teaching the PLAR course. PLAR is a process of independent learning, and all students will be assigned a PLAR Assessor. The role of the PLAR Assessor is to assess the written work/assignments submitted by the student, and submit a final grade of PASS or FAIL. The PLAR Assessor will not teach or mentor students during the completion of course work.
What will show up on my transcript?
PLAR and FIELD are graded the same in that they are a PASS or FAIL. The course outcome is not calculated in your GPA.
Can I Voluntarily Withdraw from PLAR?
Yes. You may VW from PLAR however; this decision should be considered carefully. We recommended that you consult with your Academic Advisor and your site Field Coordinator.
If I complete PLAR in lieu of first field, will the regulatory body in the province or territory where I plan to become a Registered Social Worker recognize PLAR?
PLAR is a part of the University of Manitoba Accredited BSW Program. However, not all regulatory bodies will recognize the completion of PLAR in lieu of first field as credited field hours for the application requirement or expectation of new graduates.
Students MUST check with their provincial/territorial regulatory body (College or Association) to ensure they will be eligible for registration if they choose to complete PLAR in lieu of first field. Many employers in locations across Canada require Social Workers to hold RSW status and this is your student responsibility to be sure you have achieved the required academic standing for registration.
If I apply for PLAR, and my application is approved, can I defer the course work?
Yes, you may seek the option to defer PLAR however, you will only be able to defer for 1 year. If you do proceed with PLAR after your one-year deferral you will need to re-apply.