How to Become a CBE Student

The Competency-Based Education (CBE) pathway is designed to be flexible and supportive. The steps below will guide you through the process, and our team is available at any point if you have questions or want help along the way.

Step 1: New or Returning Students (If you are a current Shasta College student, you may skip this step.)

If you are new to Shasta College or have not been enrolled for two or more semesters, please complete the standard application steps:

  • Apply to Shasta College for the current academic year (approximately 15 minutes)
  • Request official transcripts from any previously attended colleges to be sent to Shasta College Admissions & Registration
    (PO Box 496006, Redding, CA 96049-6006 or admissions@shastacollege.edu)
  • Complete the online campus orientation (approximately 45 minutes)

Step 2: Complete the CBE Orientation (Required)

Complete the online, self-paced CBE Orientation (approximately 1 hour) in Canvas (our online learning platform). Because CBE is different from traditional courses, this orientation ensures you understand the structure, expectations, and pacing before moving forward.

If you are a brand-new student and have any difficulty accessing Canvas, please notify us at CBE@shastacollege.edu with your name, ID, and a request to be set up in Canvas in the CBE Orientation.  

Step 3: Submit the CBE Intake Form

At the end of the CBE Orientation, you will be directed to complete the CBE Intake Form (approximately 15 minutes; the link to this form is at the end of the CBE Orientation).

After you submit the form, the CBE Office will contact you to schedule an appointment with the CBE Counselor. Appointments may be held:

  • In person (Redding or Red Bluff)
  • Via Zoom
  • By phone

Step 4: Meet with the CBE Counselor

During your counseling appointment, you will:

  • Review any prior coursework from Shasta College or other institutions
  • Discuss potential Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
  • Create an individualized educational plan tailored to your goals and timeline

Step 5: Employment Requirement reminder (ECE Program)

The CBE Early Childhood Education Certificate is designed for students who are currently working in an early childhood education setting, including TK–3rd grade classrooms.

If you are unsure whether your current role qualifies, we encourage you to reach out—our team is happy to talk through your situation and options.

Step 6: Apply for Financial Aid

We strongly recommend submitting a financial aid application to maximize available grants and fee waivers (approximately 45–60 minutes):

Optional: Stay Connected

You are also welcome to submit a CBE Interest Form (about 2 minutes) so we can share updates and next steps with you directly.