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Competency-Based Online

Pursue your career ambitions quickly, affordably, and effectively with our innovative, Competency-Based online program.

NAU pioneered the self-paced Competency-Based model in Arizona and was the first public university to offer a Competency-Based online degree program, which attracted national attention. You can trust our online program to partner you with experts and connect you to a curriculum that will build the skills you need to succeed.

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What is Competency-Based learning?

Our self-paced Competency-Based format focuses on your needs—set your own deadlines and move through the coursework at your own pace.

Self-paced education

Through our Competency-Based online college degree programs, you complete online courses and earn credit by demonstrating mastery of a topic. Advance quickly or take your time to understand a difficult concept—the choice is up to you.

An affordable degree

Your six-month subscription is $3,000 ($3,750 for nursing programs) and covers as many online courses as you can successfully complete. The more courses you complete each subscription, the more affordable the program.

Online degree programs designed for your success

  • Fully accredited
  • 100% online
  • Weekly starts
  • All-inclusive tuition, no additional fees
  • Set your own schedule
  • Accelerated degree completion

Traditional Online vs. Competency-Based Online

NAU online comparison between traditional online courses vs. competency based courses.


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