College for America at Southern New Hampshire University

Background

Established in 2013, College for America (CfA) at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) pioneered competency-based education (CBE) to provide flexible, affordable degree pathways for working adults. Supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Lumina Foundation, CfA enables learners to complete projects and demonstrate skills, rather than attending scheduled online classes. This innovative approach made CfA the first university program in the nation approved for federal financial aid under the U.S. Department of Education’s direct assessment provisions, independent of traditional credit hours.

Key Strategic Focus

CfA's strategic focus centers on expanding access to higher education through competency-based programs tailored for working adults, particularly those in frontline roles. By partnering with employers nationwide, CfA offers degree programs that emphasize real-world skills and applicable learning, aligning educational outcomes with workforce needs.

Financials and Funding

As a nonprofit institution, CfA operates under the financial umbrella of SNHU. While specific funding details for CfA are not publicly disclosed, SNHU has received significant grants to support innovative educational initiatives. Notably, in 2014, SNHU was awarded a $3.9 million federal innovation grant to further develop its competency-based education programs.

Pipeline Development

CfA offers competency-based associate and bachelor's degree programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. These programs are continually assessed and updated to ensure relevance and effectiveness, with a focus on expanding offerings that align with industry demands and student success.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CfA's competency-based education model is built on a proprietary learning platform that allows students to progress by demonstrating mastery of specific skills and knowledge areas. This platform supports a project-based curriculum, enabling learners to apply their learning directly to real-world scenarios. The innovative use of technology in delivering education has positioned CfA as a leader in the CBE space.

Leadership Team

While specific leadership roles within CfA are not detailed in the available sources, the program operates under the broader leadership of SNHU. As of 2024, SNHU's president is Lisa Marsh Ryerson, who succeeded Paul LeBlanc. Under LeBlanc's tenure, SNHU and CfA gained national recognition for their innovative approaches to higher education.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, Lisa Marsh Ryerson became the president of SNHU, succeeding Paul LeBlanc. This leadership transition marks a new chapter for the university and its initiatives, including CfA.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The higher education landscape is experiencing a shift towards flexible, competency-based learning models to accommodate the needs of working adults. Institutions offering online and CBE programs are gaining prominence, especially in response to declining traditional college enrollments.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the competency-based education sector include:

Western Governors University (WGU): An online university offering competency-based degree programs across various disciplines.

Purdue University Global: Provides online education tailored for working adults, emphasizing flexibility and practical skills.

Capella University: Offers competency-based education through its FlexPath programs, allowing students to learn at their own pace.

These institutions, like CfA, focus on providing accessible, flexible education options for non-traditional students.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CfA has established partnerships with various employers to offer educational opportunities to their employees. For instance, in 2014, The Wolak Group, a Dunkin' Donuts franchise network, partnered with CfA to provide fully-funded online college education to select employees, aiming to enhance workforce skills and retention.

Operational Insights

CfA's competency-based model differentiates it from traditional education providers by focusing on skill mastery and real-world application. This approach aligns with employer needs and offers a flexible learning environment for working adults, positioning CfA competitively in the evolving higher education market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, CfA aims to expand its program offerings and partnerships to reach a broader audience of working adults seeking affordable, flexible education. By leveraging its innovative CBE model and technological platform, CfA is well-positioned to address the growing demand for workforce-relevant education and to adapt to the changing dynamics of higher education.