A curated selection of accredited universities offering competency-based education (CBE) programs, designed specifically for working adults who value flexibility, prior learning assessment, and accelerated degree completion without traditional semesters.
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The pioneer in competency-based education, WGU offers over 200 affordable online degrees. Students progress by demonstrating mastery of skills rather than credit hours, allowing for accelerated completion and recognition of prior learning.
This multi-campus system provides flexible online degrees where students advance upon demonstrating competency. It is ideal for adults seeking accredited undergraduate and graduate programs that fit around work and family commitments.
Excelsior specializes in accelerated degree programs for working adults, accepting substantial transfer credits and prior learning assessments. It offers a wide range of majors in healthcare, business, and education with flexible pacing.
Known for its generous transfer credit policies and individualized study options, TESU allows students to build degrees through exams, portfolios, and online courses. It is particularly renowned for supporting non-traditional students.
SNHU offers 200+ online programs with competency-based options that allow students to move quickly through material they already know. The university is highly accessible and supports adult learners with comprehensive academic resources.
A public institution focused entirely on adult learners, Charter Oak offers competency-based degrees that recognize prior learning. It provides flexible pathways for students to complete bachelor’s and master’s degrees entirely online.
The UMaine System offers online degrees where students demonstrate competency through projects and assessments. This approach allows adult learners to leverage their professional experience and complete degrees at their own pace.
OSU offers selected competency-based degrees that focus on outcomes rather than seat time. Students can accelerate their progress by demonstrating mastery, making it a strong choice for working professionals in STEM and business.
Several UW campuses offer competency-based online degrees that allow students to accelerate their progress. The system supports adult learners with flexible scheduling and the ability to test out of courses they have mastered.
Purdue Global provides online degree programs designed for working adults, with options for competency-based learning. The university emphasizes practical skills and offers affordable tuition options for bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
CSU Global offers 100% online degrees with flexible pacing that accommodates working adults. While not exclusively CBE, it allows for significant flexibility and prior learning assessment to accelerate degree completion.
Serving military and civilian students, APUS offers online degrees with flexible start dates. It accepts extensive prior learning credits and offers competency-based pathways for students seeking efficient degree completion.
Phoenix offers online degrees with flexible scheduling and prior learning assessment opportunities. Its programs are designed for career-focused adults, with some competency-based elements allowing for accelerated progress.
Capella’s GuidedPath learning model allows students to accelerate through courses they have already mastered. This competency-based approach helps working adults complete degrees efficiently while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
UIC offers online degrees with flexible options for adult learners, including some competency-based tracks. The university leverages its urban location to provide relevant, practical education for professionals in various industries.
IWU offers online degrees with competency-based options that allow students to demonstrate mastery of learning outcomes. It is known for its affordable tuition and supportive environment for adult learners.
Liberty offers a vast array of online programs with flexible scheduling and prior learning assessment. While not exclusively CBE, it provides pathways for adult learners to accelerate their degrees based on demonstrated knowledge.
UMass Global provides online degrees designed for working adults, with opportunities for prior learning assessment. The university emphasizes practical skills and offers affordable tuition for bachelor’s and graduate programs.
UArk Global offers online degrees with flexible pacing and prior learning assessment options. It is designed for non-traditional students, providing accessible education that accommodates work and family commitments.
FHSU offers online degrees with competency-based options that allow students to accelerate their progress. The university is known for its affordability and support for adult learners seeking flexible education paths.
UT Online offers degrees through various UT campuses, with some programs featuring competency-based elements. It provides flexible options for adult learners to earn accredited degrees while managing professional responsibilities.