For many people, however, the time-based approach isnt the best.
Maybe you tried college and stopped, or skipped college to work full-time but have in-depth, on-the-job knowledge.
Or maybe youre an independent learner who takes free online classes and want a degree for your effort.
Heres how it works.
However, these options are limited.
Competency-based education programs can include the exams above, but they go beyond that.
Heres a video intro fromC-BEN, a online grid of colleges and universities offering CBE.
The kinds of assignments and tests you take depend on your subject.
(e.g., Mathematics)
Projects requiring the student to design a lesson plan.
(e.g., Teaching)
Reflection essays about case studies.
(e.g., MBA)
Research papers on particular topics within the students field.
you’re free to even complete exams in your own home via remote proctoring.
Your portfolio might include professional certifications, work samples, or other supporting documents.
The Portfolio Assessment process is managed, submitted and reviewed completely online.
You work online and at your own pace, taking as many course assessments as you want.
I will graduate with no education debt.
They also were more likely to stay in the program and completed their degrees faster.
Michigan State University also listsseveral schools with competency-based programs.
Another option isCollege for America.
Before you sign up for a competency-based program, though, you shouldask yourself a few questions.
Is it eligible for financial aid?
Competency-based education might not be for everyone.
As with other independent learning options, you have to be self-motivated.
Illustration by Jim Cooke.
get in touch with the author at[email protected].
