Competency-Based Education
What is Competency-Based Education (CBE)?
Competency-based education is a learning model that is growing in use across the country. Here at Lakeshore Technical College, it benefits our students by allowing you to:
Learn When You Want To
We understand students and schedules differ. Lakeshore offers a personalized, flexible schedule so you can complete your coursework when it fits your life.
Progress at Your Own Pace
The CBE model allows you to demonstrate knowledge when you are ready, allowing you to move through coursework at your own pace. CBE focuses on knowledge and competence versus time spent in class.
Receive Personalized Coaching & Support
Every CBE program student has a success team who is with you every step of the way through your educational journey. Whether you’re signing up for classes, navigating college life, needing help with homework, or asking questions, our Lakeshore team is happy and ready to support you.
CBE Frequently Asked Questions & Schedules

CBE Delivery Formats
CBE courses are delivered in different formats. It’s good to familiarize yourself with each one:
CBE On-Campus
CBE on-campus courses offer you the opportunity to set your own flexible schedule to come to campus to complete coursework. Course activities will require you to participate on campus, in person, with your instructor and/or classmates. CBE on-campus courses also use the internet or other technology to facilitate instruction. Consult the course schedule to identify the times your class meets.
CBE Hybrid
CBE hybrid courses also offer you the opportunity to set your own flexible schedule to complete coursework. CBE hybrid courses also use the internet or other technology to facilitate instruction. Additional course activities require you to participate in scheduled on-campus or virtual in-person sessions with your instructor and/or classmates. Consult the course schedule to identify the times your class meets.
CBE Online
CBE online courses can be completed 100% online at times and locations convenient to you. Interactions between you and your instructor can be scheduled virtually during mutually agreed upon times.
CBE Start Dates
The scheduling flexibility offered by CBE makes attending college possible when you have work, family, and other commitments. You can even choose to start a course during any of these months:
2023
March 6
April 10
June 5 – for some courses
July 10 – for some courses
August 14
August 28
September 11
October 9
November 13

Programs Offered
The following programs are currently offered as CBE programs. We will continue adding programs over time, so check back if you’re not seeing a program you’re interested in taking in the CBE format.
Advanced Manufacturing
CNC Technician
Intro to Machine Tool
Machine Tool Operation
Intro to Industrial Welding
Welding-Industrial
Starting in Fall 2023:
Welding Fabrication
Automotive
Auto Collision Repair & Refinish Technician
Automotive Refinisher Certificate
Business Management & Administration (beginning Fall 2023)
Administrative Professional
Office Assistant
Construction (beginning Fall 2023)
HVAC & Building Trades Fundamentals
Healthcare
Medical Coder
Ophthalmic Medical Assistant
Starting in Summer 2023:
Nursing Assistant
Starting in Fall 2023:
Pharmacy Services Management
Pharmacy Technician
Want to learn more about competency-based education programs?
Contact our Admissions Advisors at 920.693.1162 or send your questions to admissions@gotoltc.edu.