The TUS MA in Art, Psyche and the Creative Imagination is a blended mode MA programme envisioned to offer a transformative learning environment that aims to enrich personal, social and cultural life contexts by exploring the interface between art and psyche and by cultivating a practice of the creative imagination. This is an interdisciplinary programme with an emphasis on depth psychology, informed by the arts and underpinned by the processes of creative imagination.
When translator and real estate consultant, Tara Dunn Acheson, discovered that RPL could help her to fulfil a lifelong ambition of pursuing a third-level degree, she seized the opportunity. Tara completed her Leaving Certificate many years ago and worked in real estate and as a translator internationally for many years. Tara completed short certificate programmes to support her work in these areas. Third level education was not an option for Tara due to other commitments in her early work and family life. Tara’s application for entry to the MA in Art, Psyche & the Creative Imagination was successful and she has shared some insights below to assist others who are considering the RPL route to progress their studies.
Why was RPL the right fit for you?
I feel that by formally acknowledging my prior experiences and interests related to the course, RPL allowed me to gain further skills, ensuring my engagement throughout the learning process. Having previously being involved in the topics of the course I was to pursue, I could develop further without being left behind.
How has RPL and higher education impacted you on a personal level?
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework and my current academic journey have been totally transformative in my life. I feel it has boosted my confidence and stimulated my curiosity across a range of subjects, expanding the horizons of my future career prospects within this new discipline.
How has RPL impacted you professionally?
Being able to grow academically and expand my knowledge has impacted both my personal and my professional life. I am now assessing new paths for my future. In the meantime, I feel enriched and can see it is affecting my current career in the sense that I just see things through a different lens.
How would you describe your experience of the RPL application process? What did you need to do?
The process was quite straight forward. Whilst filling in my application form and having ticked the box for RPL I was then asked to write an essay and carry out an interview which would assess my knowledge necessary to gain access to the course I was interested in.
What advice would you offer someone looking into RPL in higher education?
The RPL system is a significant opportunity, as it opens up new career pathways and educational advancements. I think it is important, however, that participants possess a foundational interest in the field and a genuine eagerness to learn, as these elements are critical for maximizing the benefits of this recognition process.