Further Learning (FL) is the knowledge and understanding that underpins Initial Professional Development. It is required by individual applicants whose initial qualification is not at the correct level for their desired registration type (Masters level for CEng, Bachelors level for IEng). Members who are currently on MPDS should check to see if they are required to undertake Further Learning, as it is a separate requirement from Professional Development competences.
There are three ways of completing Further Learning to top up your initial qualifications:
1) An accredited academic route (updated x4 a year)
2) An approved Company Further Learning Scheme (updated regularly)
3) An approved Individual Further Learning plan (which can be a combination of academic study and work based learning).
Further Learning should demonstrate new learning against QAA benchmark statements, and may include knowledge gained in the following elements:
- deepening of Engineering and Scientific knowledge
- broadening of Technical & Non-Technical knowledge
How is Further Learning Assessed and Achieved?
If completing your own format, your Further Learning plan must demonstrate how your knowledge is assessed and by whom. The Further Learning Guidelines explain the different routes available to achieve this. For any Work Based Learning that you complete this assessment criteria sheet should be used. The assessment must be on knowledge and understanding gained and be against a defined assessment criteria.
Do I Need Further Learning?
Contact the Membership helpline on 0845 226 9191 from the UK or on +44(0)20 7304 6999 from overseas, or complete the Qualification Checker pro forma. For specific Further Learning questions, email furtherlearning@imeche.org