Prior Learning Assessment for OHS

The University of New Brunswick (UNB) has a prior learning assessment process where a student's prior learning may be evaluated for course equivalency and applied to the Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (COHS).

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) refers to the systematic evaluation of learning an individual has achieved through previous post-secondary courses and programs, related industry certifications or specialized training programs. It provides evidence that an individual has already met the expected learning outcomes of OHS courses through learning acquired before enrolment in the COHS program.

Prior learning may include:

• Relevant courses completed at other Universities and Colleges within the last 10 years with a grade of C+ (70%), OR;
• Industry certifications or training programs completed within the last five years, with courses similar to those in the COHS program and involve at least 35 hours of study and assessment.

We are unable to assess the following for equivalency in the COHS program:

• Workplace learning
• Courses, training programs or certificates that involve fewer than 35 hours of study and assessment. One or two day seminars/workshops do not provide the depth and assessment necessary to be considered equivalent to OHS courses.

How to apply

To apply for a prior learning assessment, the applicant will be required to:

1. Complete and submit the online PLA application:
   • Identify the courses in which they are seeking credit.
   • Upload copies of all documentation to be assessed. This may include the items below for all courses being assessed for credit.
     • Transcripts
     • Certificates
     • Syllabi or Course Descriptions
     • Learning Outcomes
     • Any related documentation you may deem as important to your assessment
2. Submit the assessment fee of $195.

Once your PLA is complete it will be considered closed. If you wish in the future to have another PLA assessment completed, you will have to reapply and will be required to submit a second application and fee.

To apply for PLA, you will need to create an account in our registration system.

Apply now

Previously assessed course equivalents

Review the Previously Assessed Course Equivalents before applying. A maximum of FIVE courses in the COHS can be acquired through PLA, but the balance of the COHS (SIX courses) must be completed through UNB. The Advanced Diploma in OHS is not eligible for PLA.

Institutions not currently shown in this list will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for PLA.

Note: If you have used your NCSO designation or some other program of study for PLA credit towards COHS 3110 or some other UNB COHS course, some organizations such as BCRSP^® may not allow you to also get credit for it as an independent study in your application towards your CRSP^® (Canadian Registered Safety Professional).

Apply now