Learn at Your Own Pace

Frequently Asked Questions
 

What is Competency Based Education?

Competency based education (CBE) is when learning takes place at the student’s pace. Once students feel they have mastered a competency, they complete an assessment to demonstrate mastery. Once all competencies for a program have been assessed and mastered, students will earn a certificate, diploma, or degree.

Why is it a good fit?

As a student, I progress at my own pace and take responsibility for my learning plan, completing competencies when ready by taking assessments to demonstrate mastery. When I do my work is when it fits into my schedule, not based on when the College schedules courses.

What is the admissions/registration process?

Students who want to earn a certificate, diploma or degree, must complete the following steps:

 1. Complete application for admission 
 2. Submit official copies of high school transcripts, GED, or HSED 
Students who want to just take a competency, must complete the undeclared application for admission and submit any required supporting documentation specific to the desired competency. Please note that students just taking a class are not eligible for federal financial aid.

Is there financial aid available for CBE programs?

Yes, students are able to apply for federal financial aid. To get started, go to www.fafsa.gov and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. For more detailed questions, please contact our Financial Aid Office at 715.365.4423 or financial_aid@nicoletcollege.edu.

What kind of assignments can I expect in CBE programs?

Assignments consist of knowledge assessments and performance assessments completed in the lab. There may also be some assignments completed to help assess readiness for assessments. Students are also encouraged to seek assistance from their program faculty to prepare for assessments and assignments.

What happens if I cannot complete the assessments before the term ends?

Students that have at least 50% of a competency done may be able to get an incomplete. Students need to talk to their competency faculty and success coach to get approval for an incomplete. An Incomplete grade can be carried for a maximum of one term. Students who have outstanding competencies and do not get approved for an incomplete will receive an “F”.

How much does this program cost?

Tuition and fees are charged based on the number of credits in which a student enrolls. Learn more about tuition and fees.

Can I take all of my courses online?

Students will complete all coursework that that is considered lecture (traditionally face-to-face classroom time) online. Competency faculty are available to guide students through online work.

For the Welding program, students are also expected to schedule lab time with assistance from their success coach and program faculty to practice skills and complete performance assessments.

What if I have previous college or work experience?

Students who have previous college and work experience should review our Credit for Prior Learning information.

What is the policy for dropping or withdrawing from a competency?

If a student wants to drop or withdraw from a competency, the refund percentage/withdrawal deadline will be calculated based on the enrollment date in the competency or the competency start date, whichever is later. If a student is enrolled in both a pre-requisite and advanced competency, the student may be eligible for a 100% refund for the advanced competency if the student is unable to meet the pre-requisite requirement AND has not yet begun the advanced competency. Students must notify staff that they wish to withdraw or drop a competency to be eligible for the refund. Click here to learn more and read the fully policy.