College of Nursing

Competency-Based Education

 

New innovative online learning for RN-B.S.N.

The College of Nursing recognizes working nurses’ need for flexible education. That’s why we’ve developed a Competency-Based Education (CBE) track for our online RN–B.S.N. students. Our 100% online CBE program is the first bachelor’s degree program of its kind among Ohio institutions and offers students self-paced online learning that’s personalized, accessible and convenient.

Advance at Your Own Pace

CBE students advance through courses based on individual ability. Once a student masters a subject, they advance to the next topic.  Many CBE students save time and resources by being able to fully take charge of their online environment.

Choose Your Course-load

Flexibility and ownership are key. Students are often more invested in CBE curriculum because of its self-directed nature. Learn how you want, when you want, where you want. Setting your own schedule and course-load helps students balance the demands of busy personal and professional lives. Throughout the program you can slow down or increase your course-load. You lead your online experience and make it work best for you.

 

FAQs

What is the Competency Based Education (CBE) program?

The UToledo RN-to-B.S.N. CBE program provides an alternative RN-to-B.S.N. education. While the program follows the standard curriculum in the nursing program, it is a self-paced, online program that allows the learner to advance at their own rate as they master each of the areas for each of the courses.

What is the length of the Competency Based Education (CBE) program?

CBE is a self-paced education model, so completion time will vary from student-to-student. The courses are connected to competencies that meet the course objectives. After the student successfully masters all competencies for the course, they officially pass the course, and will advance to the next course. It is important to note that the course competencies must be successfully completed within the semester.

Students in the CBE program can complete courses in as few as two semesters, but it will vary by student.

What learning management system is used for the CBE program?

Blackboard is the learning platform used for the CBE program.  Online support is available, including a Live Chat feature.

What support will be available to guide me through the CBE process?

Faculty with experience in online learning and years of nursing expertise will facilitate your learning. All CBE students are supported by an academic advisor and the course faculty. The academic advisor will review your academic transcripts to determine congruence with program requirements and assist you in designing your plan of study. Your academic advisor will discuss how CBE may be a fit for you, assist with the registration process and work with you to ensure the degree requirements are met. The course faculty is available to guide you through each course and to answer questions about the competencies connected to each course.

Can I begin at any time in the semester?

There is a flexible start for students. Students can enroll in specified terms during the first 9 weeks of each semester. A hard stop is in place, which means that students must complete each course by the end of the semester in which they enroll.

What is the grading scale for an RN - BSN CBE course?

What happens if a student is unable to successfully complete all the course competencies during the semester?

Unfortunately, if the course competencies are not successfully mastered during the semester, a failing grade (F) will be assigned and the student must repeat the course.

What is the out -of-state surcharge for students in a totally online program?

The out-of-state surcharge is $5 per credit hour for students enrolled exclusively in an online program.  If at any point you change your major to one of our on-campus or hybrid programs, or take an on-campus course, you will no longer qualify for this reduction. 

 

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