At Northern Essex Community College, we’re committed to providing innovative and flexible educational opportunities to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our Competency-Based Education (CBE) programs are designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals at your own pace.
What is Competency-Based Education (CBE)?
Competency-Based Education (CBE) is an approach that focuses on your ability to demonstrate mastery of specific skills and knowledge, rather than the amount of time you spend in a classroom. This model allows you to progress through your coursework as soon as you can show that you have mastered the required competencies.
CBE Programs
NECC offers CBE programs in:
CBE Courses
Choose from individual CBE courses that build skills across an array of industries and job functions:
- ART 109 – Two Dimensional Foundations
- ECE 101 – Intro to Early Childhood Ed
- ECE 111 – Preschool Curriculum
- ENG 101 – English Composition I
- ENG 102 – English Composition II
- PSY 101 – Intro Psychology
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Benefits of Competency-Based Education (CBE)
Flexible Learning Pace
Flexible Learning Pace
Progress through your courses at a speed that suits you. Whether you want to accelerate your studies or take more time to fully understand the material, CBE offers the flexibility you need.
Personalized Support
Personalized Support
Receive individualized support from your CBE Learning Coach as well as faculty and staff who are committed to your success.
Cost-Effective
Cost-Effective
Save money by potentially completing your degree faster and reducing the overall cost of your education.
Real-World Skills
Real-World Skills
Gain practical, job-ready skills that are directly applicable to your chosen career field.
How Competency-Based Education (CBE) Works
Personalized Learning Plan
Personalized Learning Plan
Based on your assessment results, you will receive a customized learning plan that outlines the competencies you need to achieve and the resources available to help you succeed.
Self-Paced Learning
Self-Paced Learning
You will engage with a variety of learning materials, including online modules, textbooks, and hands-on activities. Move through the content at your own pace, taking assessments when you feel ready.
Mastery Demonstration
Mastery Demonstration
When you are confident in your understanding of the material, you will complete assessments to demonstrate your mastery of each competency. These assessments may include exams, projects, presentations, or other practical tasks.
Continuous Support
Continuous Support
Throughout your CBE journey, you will have access to faculty mentors, academic advisors, and other support services to ensure you stay on track and achieve your goals.
Start Here
Apply to NECC
Apply to NECC
Submit your application online and indicate your interest in CBE programs.
Meet with an Advisor
Meet with an Advisor
Schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to discuss your goals and determine the best path for you.
Assessment
Assessment
Complete any necessary assessments to evaluate and identify the competencies you need to master.
Enroll in Courses
Enroll in Courses
Register for the CBE courses that fit your personalized learning plan and begin your journey toward success.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need more information about our CBE programs, please don’t hesitate to contact us:
cbe@necc.mass.edu
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