Northern Arizona University Launches Competency-Based Online Degree Program

[sanantone]

The information packet also states this: "Prior learning in an academic environment, not life experience, is the basis for awarding transfer credit. You may be awarded no more than 35 credit hours using methods recommended by the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) and the American Council on Education (ACE)."


Only 35 ACE credits

This program was modeled heavily on WGU's program.
It was started with a $1mil Grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
3 degree offerings right now. Liberal Arts, Computer Information Systems, and Small Business Administration (All Bach of Arts).

Only major question I have about this program is what about financial aid? I have looked through the packet, the FAQ's, and the "affordability" section, and I have yet to see anything about financial aid.

Do ACE credits include CLEP and DSST? I'm just downloading the packet now. WGU has the upper-hand on technology degrees since the cost of certifications are included in the tuition. Hopefully, NAU is not like WGU in that you can't add any tests to your plan once it's been finalized. Several months ago, someone on here posted about the University of Wisconsin system starting a competency-based system. Texas A&M, Commerce is also working on competency-based degrees. There might be a couple of others, but I can't remember who they are. WGU is a pioneer for these kinds of degrees, but I would definitely prefer to earn a degree at a college that scream online only right on its home page.