What Is a Competency-Based Degree Program?

Competency-based degree programs give you the opportunity to focus on learning new topics and earn credit for what you already have learned through work or life experience. These programs allow you to advance at your own pace. You can work quickly through familiar material or take additional time with more complex topics. Either way, you have the flexibility to determine your learning path.

Learn more about competency-based online degree programs and if you are a good fit for one.

How Is a Competency-Based Degree Different From a Traditional Program?

Purdue Global offers a competency-based program called ExcelTrack^®. These degree programs offer the same curricula, program outcomes, academic rigor, and faculty as traditional program options.

Here’s how competency-based programs are different:

• Courses are shorter. The 1-credit module courses (mini-courses) provide greater scheduling and pacing flexibility.
• You work at your own pace. You can register for competency modules at the start of a term, then register for more for that exact term if you can finish them by the end.
• Competency assessments test your knowledge. You must pass a comprehensive competency assessment during the term to gain credit for the competency module.
• Optional academic support activities are available. Readings, discussion boards, faculty, and more are there when you need them.
• Each term has a flat tuition rate. Unlike a traditional degree program in which you pay for each course separately, competency-based programs have a flat rate per term, plus applicable fees. The more modules you can complete each term, the more time and money you save.

How Are Competency-Based Courses Assessed?

Each module course in ExcelTrack^® consists of two components: readiness check and competency assessment.

Readiness Check

The first component is a readiness check. It helps determine what you already know about a particular subject and what you still need to master. If you need help, you can take part in optional readings, participate in discussion boards, complete practice activities, and get help from your instructor.

Competency Assessment

You'll complete and submit the assigned final project, lab, or evaluation when ready. You will pass if you demonstrate competence for all of the outcomes. If you do not pass, you'll have another chance before the end of the term by revising and resubmitting the project, lab, or evaluation.

What Degrees Are Available Through Competency-Based Programs?

Degree choice varies by institution. For example, through ExcelTrack^®, Purdue Global offers these competency-based degrees and certificates:

Bachelor’s Degrees

• BS in Analytics
• BS in Business Administration
• BS in Cloud Computing and Solutions
• BS in Criminal Justice
• BS in Cybersecurity
• BS in Health Care Administration
• BS in Information Technology
• BS in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)

Master’s Degrees and Postgraduate Certificates

• Business Administration (MBA)
• Nursing (MSN)
• Nurse Executive Leader

Who Should Consider a Competency-Based Degree Program?

Working individuals who meet the following minimum program requirements can benefit from pursuing a competency-based program such as ExcelTrack^®:

• You have 3 or more years of work experience, having acquired professional skills relevant to your program of study. (Not required for the ExcelTrack^® Bachelor of Science in Nursing.)
• You have successfully completed at least three courses at an accredited college.
• For a master's degree: have proof you have completed a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution.
• For nursing postgraduate certificates: have proof you have completed a master’s degree at an accredited institution.

For success in competency-based programs such as ExcelTrack^®, it’s helpful to have the following:

• Excellent time management and organization skills
• Relevant career experience or college credits
• Self-motivation and self-discipline
• Technical skills [ability to navigate the learning management system (LMS), save files, etc.]

Earn Your Degree in an Accelerated Program

Competency-based degree programs can fit well with a busy lifestyle and may help you earn your degree faster. You may also be able to receive college credit for prior learning or transfer credits, which can help you earn your degree more quickly. Find out more about Purdue Global’s competency-based online degrees or contact us today for more information.