competency-based degrees

Republican and Democratic lawmakers Wednesday questioned the merits of alternative learning models, as the Senate Education Committee held a hearing on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, the law that governs federal financial student aid.

Traditionally, college students earn credit for how many hours they spend in a classroom. But a different approach gives credit based on how much you know -- and know how to do. As the cost of college soars, proponents say competency-based education could save students and employers thousands.

More and more we are seeing articles in the media asking: “Is college worth it?” The question at one time might have seemed silly; most economists and higher education experts argue that higher education is still worth it. But the affordability crisis facing American colleges and universities may soon change that assessment.