Competency-Based Education (CBE)

What is Competency-Based Education?

Competency-based education is a learning model that is growing in use across the country, including here at Lakeshore College. It offers the flexibility students need, and values the base of knowledge you might bring with you. CBE benefits students by allowing you to:

• Earn your degree based on mastery of competencies, not through a dedicated amount of time spent in a classroom.
  
  • Completing assessments and courses is dependent on the efforts you put into them.
  • Class activities are organized so you can practice skills and theories until you are ready to take the assessments.
  • You must succeed on all assessments, though most courses offer the opportunity to retake if not mastered on the first try.
• Learn at a flexible pace
  
  • While you can proceed at the pace of a traditional course, you have the opportunity to accelerate your learning and complete courses prior to their end dates.
  • Your work experience and expertise is valued and may earn you Credit for Prior Learning, which can lead to faster completion.
• Receive personalized support and instruction
  
  • Every student has a success team with you every step of the way through your educational journey.
  • Faculty work with you to create a personalized schedule that keeps you on pace to completion.
  • An individualized learning plan ensures you will complete courses and work to accelerate your learning.

Advantages of Lakeshore's Competency-Based Education Programs

• Flexibility is built in, though it's important to stay on pace to complete courses and programs. We recognize life gets in the way sometimes and you just need more time to complete coursework.
• Many programs offer courses that can be taken online or in person, so you can learn the way you prefer.
• Instructors are available in person and virtually, making it convenient to connect with them.