Competency-Based Degree Programs in the U.S.: Postsecondary Credentials for Measurable Student Learning and Performance

This paper examines the current state of competency-based postsecondary education in the U.S., profiling the various types of competency-based, or competency-focused, models that currently exist, the extent to which these programs assess for student competen-cies or learning outcomes, and the extent to which these programs operate outside of a credit-based system. These programs can help inform other institutions interested in develop-ing a stronger focus on competencies, whether by demonstrating the possibilities of high-quality programs or by facilitating the recognition of learning acquired outside of traditional instruction.