2027 Self-Paced Online Real Estate Bachelor's Degree Programs
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Balancing a full-time job while pursuing a bachelor's degree in real estate can challenge many adult learners. Traditional programs often lack the flexibility necessary for those managing careers and family commitments. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 40% of online bachelor's degree students choose self-paced formats to accommodate varied schedules. This trend highlights the growing demand for adaptable learning models in real estate education. This article explores the key features and benefits of self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs, providing insights to help prospective students find a flexible, accredited path into the real estate industry.
Key Benefits of Self-Paced Online Real Estate Bachelor's Degree Programs
- Self-paced online real estate bachelor's programs offer flexibility for working professionals, allowing study schedules tailored around full-time jobs and personal commitments.
- Students can accelerate skill acquisition by progressing through competency-based modules at their own speed, facilitating faster entry into the real estate workforce.
- These programs provide cost-effective pathways to accredited degrees, often featuring transfer credit options and prior learning assessments that reduce overall tuition expenses.
What Are Self-Paced Online Real Estate Bachelor's Degree Programs, and How Do They Differ From Traditional Online Formats?
Self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs offer flexibility by allowing students to complete coursework at their own speed rather than adhering to fixed semester schedules. Unlike cohort-based programs, where learners start and finish together, or asynchronous-but-scheduled formats that require weekly deadlines without live sessions, self-paced programs provide open enrollment and progression based on mastery rather than calendar dates. This structure supports competency-based education models focused on skill acquisition.
These programs feature open enrollment, enabling students to start anytime and balance studies with other commitments. Progress is milestone-driven, often requiring passing assessments or completing projects to move forward, allowing learners to customize their pace based on strengths and challenges. Compared to traditional online real estate degrees, self-paced formats demand strong self-discipline and time management since faculty interaction is less frequent and mainly on-demand. Responsibility for goal-setting and meeting deadlines rests more heavily on the student without external weekly checkpoints.
Self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs for career changers and non-traditional students provide an adaptable learning path tailored to individual needs. This emerging preference aligns with lifelong learning trends and professional development demands across industries. Prospective students should also explore transfer credit policies, prior learning assessments, and financial aid eligibility to optimize cost and completion time.
- Flexible Timing: Students can study around work, family, or other commitments, benefiting from an open timeline that supports steady progress without sacrificing quality.
- Custom Learning Pace: Learners can accelerate through familiar topics and spend more time on difficult material, tailoring the educational journey to their needs.
- Accessibility: Enrollment is available outside traditional academic periods, avoiding delays and accommodating diverse start times.
- Emerging Preference: As education shifts toward competency-based models, self-paced real estate programs gain popularity for supporting career advancement and lifelong learning.
For those comparing options, programs similar to a speech pathology masters online often emphasize flexibility and competency-based progression, making self-paced real estate degrees a fitting choice for learners seeking maximum adaptability.
Which Accredited Institutions Offer Self-Paced Online Real Estate Bachelor's Degree Programs?
Several regionally accredited institutions in the United States offer self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs designed for flexibility and accelerated completion. These programs suit working professionals, non-traditional students, and first-time enrollees seeking competency-based education models that focus on mastery rather than traditional seat time.
- Western Governors University (WGU): Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), WGU offers a competency-based Bachelor of Science in Business - Real Estate Management. Tuition follows a subscription model with a flat fee around $3,750 per six-month term, giving unlimited course access. Many students finish in 18 to 24 months, leveraging transfer credits and prior learning assessments to reduce time to degree.
- Columbia Southern University: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), CSU provides a self-paced Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a specialization in real estate. Tuition runs about $320 per credit, flexible enrollment is available year-round, and many complete under three years. Their generous transfer policies support accelerated pathways.
- Capella University: Holding regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Capella's competency-based Bachelor of Business Administration with a Real Estate concentration uses the FlexPath format. Students pay approximately $2,500 per 12-week session, allowing completion often in 18 months or less through self-paced progression.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): SNHU, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration focused on real estate. Though primarily credit-based, its self-paced courses, transfer-friendly policies, and tuition around $320 per credit provide flexibility, with typical completion between two to three years.
- Liberty University: Also accredited by SACSCOC, Liberty's online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a real estate concentration combines self-paced elements with traditional term schedules. Tuition is approximately $390 per credit hour. Frequent start dates and credit-by-exam options enable faster degree completion.
Each college participates in federal financial aid programs and emphasizes flexible enrollment and credit transferability, features vital for students seeking the most flexible self-paced online real estate bachelor's programs. For those curious about comparable affordability in related fields, exploring the cheapest online master's in counseling offers additional insight into cost-effective distance education options.
2026 Update: Checking State Licensing Alignment Before Enrolling
This 2026 update adds guidance on how self-paced online real estate bachelor’s programs may connect with state licensing rules, exam preparation, and supervised experience expectations.
- Confirm whether the degree includes courses that may satisfy any state pre-licensing education requirements.
- Check if licensing rules differ for real estate salespersons, brokers, appraisers, or property managers.
- Ask whether coursework is accepted in the state where you plan to work after graduation.
- Review whether the program offers exam-prep support, practice assessments, or licensing advising.
- Find out if internships, capstones, or field projects can help meet employer or licensing expectations.
- Verify whether moving to another state could require extra coursework or a separate licensing process.
By checking licensing fit early, students can choose a flexible program that supports both degree completion and their intended real estate career path.
Completion times for self-paced online real estate bachelor's degrees can range widely-from as quickly as 18 months to five years or more. Factors like transfer credits, prior learning assessments, and the amount of weekly study time strongly influence how fast students finish their programs.
- Transfer Credits: Many programs accept college credits earned previously, helping students skip introductory courses and reduce both time and cost. Those with associate degrees or relevant classes can often accelerate their path to graduation.
- Prior Learning Assessments: Certain schools evaluate professional experience or credentials, awarding academic credit that replaces traditional coursework. This recognition of existing skills can notably speed up completion.
- Weekly Time Commitment: The number of hours dedicated to coursework each week plays a critical role. Students who devote 15 or more hours to study generally progress faster, while those balancing jobs or family may take longer.
- Competency-Based Progression: Programs that let learners advance by demonstrating mastery rather than following set schedules support quicker completion for motivated students familiar with industry concepts.
- National Benchmarks: The National Center for Education Statistics records an average bachelor's degree duration of about 4.5 years, with many self-paced online options matching or beating this timeline through flexibility and credit transfer.
- Realistic Scheduling: Evaluating personal responsibilities honestly helps students set achievable study goals, maintaining steady momentum without burnout.
- Support Resources: Advising, tutoring, and time-management tools offered by programs improve persistence and reduce delays, helping students stay on track to graduate on time.
A professional who enrolled in a self-paced online real estate bachelor's program shared that juggling full-time work and family commitments was initially overwhelming. He described feeling uncertain about how aggressively to pace himself but found that breaking down coursework into manageable weekly goals made progress feel attainable rather than daunting. He appreciated access to personalized advising, which helped him adjust study plans during busy periods. Reflecting on the experience, he mentioned, "It wasn't about rushing but staying consistent-there were weeks when I slowed down, but having the flexibility to pick up speed later kept me motivated." His journey illustrates how self-paced formats accommodate changing life demands while supporting steady advancement toward a degree.
Most self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs require applicants to have completed high school or hold a GED, establishing essential educational credentials. Many programs set minimum GPA expectations-typically around 2.0 to 2.5 on a 4.0 scale-to assess academic preparedness, although these standards can be flexible, especially in programs catering to working adults. Prerequisite coursework is usually minimal, but knowledge in subjects like math, business, or economics may strengthen applications and better prepare students for real estate studies involving more complex concepts.
- High School Diploma or GED: Proof of secondary education completion is a nearly universal requirement, confirming foundational academic achievement needed for college-level learning.
- Minimum GPA Expectations: Many online real estate programs expect a baseline GPA to evaluate readiness, but self-paced degrees often allow some flexibility to accommodate non-traditional students balancing other commitments.
- Prerequisite Coursework: Some institutions recommend or require courses related to math or business, which help students engage successfully with real estate subjects and can improve admission chances.
- Open-Enrollment Policies: To reduce barriers for working professionals and those returning to school, many programs offer rolling admission and open access, promoting accessibility over selectivity.
- Selective vs. Open-Access Programs: More selective programs might ask for standardized test scores or additional documentation and typically provide robust academic support, whereas open-access options emphasize accessibility and may offer fewer resources.
- Application Strengthening Tips: Applicants who fall short of requirements can enhance their candidacy by completing relevant coursework, gaining practical real estate experience, or submitting a personal statement that highlights motivation and career goals.
When researching advanced degrees, consider exploring related options like psyd programs USA to understand how different fields structure admissions and support for non-traditional learners.
Costs for self-paced online real estate bachelor's degrees vary significantly by institution and payment type. Programs typically charge per credit hour, via flat-rate subscriptions, or use bundled fees covering multiple courses. Based on NCES data and typical pricing, credit costs range from about $300 to $600 each, with degrees requiring roughly 120 to 130 credits. Subscription options offer unlimited course access for a monthly or quarterly fee, favoring those who progress quickly, but potentially increasing expenses for slower-paced learners.
Additional fees often add hundreds of dollars to total expenses. These can include technology charges for remote learning platforms or specialized real estate software, exam proctoring fees, and costs for curriculum materials or licensing. Accounting for these hidden costs is crucial to accurate budgeting.
- Tuition Models: Options include paying per credit, monthly flat fees, or bundled course packages-each influencing how cost-effective the program is based on completion speed.
- Per-Credit Costs: Between $300 and $600 per credit; longer timeframes mean paying for more credits and possibly extra semesters.
- Subscription Fees: Fixed payments allow faster completion without per-course charges but may be pricier if progress slows.
- Extra Expenses: Technology, exam proctoring, and materials can add $200-$600 in total program costs.
- Transfer Credits: Using transfer credits reduces required credits and tuition, though administrative fees may apply.
- Financial Aid: Many accredited programs offer financial aid to lessen tuition and fees for eligible students.
One professional who completed a self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree shared that, despite challenges balancing work and study, the flexible structure allowed her to focus on mastering key concepts at her own pace. "It wasn't just about paying tuition; managing the hidden costs and understanding how quickly I could move through courses were critical," she recalled. Her experience underscored the importance of planning finances carefully while taking advantage of transfer credits and aid options to make the journey manageable and ultimately rewarding.
Financial aid for self-paced online real estate bachelor's degrees often parallels traditional funding but includes specific challenges tied to competency-based education (CBE) models. Some federal aid requires clear credit-hour equivalents to qualify, making FAFSA eligibility verification crucial. Federal Student Aid provides options such as Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and work-study, although disbursement may vary depending on the program's pacing and structure.
State-level aid programs may also be available, but eligibility criteria and deadlines differ widely by state. Many institutions tailor scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans to support students in self-paced formats. Engaging directly with financial aid counselors is essential to navigating these variations and understanding how program design impacts funding timelines.
Students can also access discipline-specific scholarships offered by professional organizations, such as the National Association of Realtors, which target those pursuing careers in real estate through online or competency-based programs. According to the College Board's 2023 Trends in Student Aid report, approximately 86% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, underscoring broad availability despite diverse program formats.
- Federal Aid Eligibility: Pell Grants and federal loans are accessible but depend on meeting FAFSA criteria related to credit-hour progression within self-paced programs.
- State Aid Variability: Grants and scholarships vary by state; students should confirm residency and application requirements early.
- Institutional Support: Colleges often offer customized aid packages and payment options designed for the flexibility of competency-based education.
- Field-Specific Scholarships: Professional associations provide scholarships specifically for students committed to careers in real estate.
- Confirm Aid Details: It is important to consult aid offices before enrollment, as self-paced program features may affect when and how funds are distributed.
Competency-based education (CBE) in self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs centers on students demonstrating mastery of specific skills through assessments rather than accumulating traditional seat time. Learners progress by passing projects, exams, and portfolio reviews that measure their understanding of core topics like property management, finance, and law. For financial aid, many CBE programs convert demonstrated competencies into credit hours according to federal guidelines, ensuring students remain eligible despite flexible pacing.
CBE programs come in two primary types: direct assessment and credit-hour equivalent. Direct assessment programs award credit strictly based on mastery without converting to traditional credit hours, while credit-hour equivalent programs map competencies to the familiar credit-hour system. This distinction affects how students engage with coursework and access financial aid.
Institutions such as Southern New Hampshire University and Capella University offer self-paced real estate programs using the CBE model. These schools employ regular formative and summative assessments, with faculty serving as coaches or mentors who provide guidance rather than traditional lectures. Employers recognize these programs for emphasizing demonstrated practical skills over classroom time.
Success in CBE requires strong self-discipline and time management. Prospective students should evaluate their motivation and learning preferences before enrolling. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, enrollment in CBE programs has grown by 20% over the last five years, reflecting increasing demand for personalized education pathways.
- Flexible Progression: Students advance by demonstrating skills through assessments instead of logging classroom hours, allowing for personalized pacing that respects individual knowledge levels.
- Financial Aid Compatibility: Federal guidelines enable many CBE programs to convert competency achievements into credit hours, preserving access to scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Assessment-Based Mastery: Programs use diverse assessments-including exams, projects, and portfolio reviews-to validate real estate knowledge and applied skills.
- Support Structures: Faculty act as coaches offering guidance and feedback, fostering student independence while maintaining academic integrity and motivation.
- Self-Discipline Required: Learner success hinges on motivation and effective time management in a setting without fixed class schedules or deadlines.
Accreditation is a critical factor when considering accredited online Real Estate bachelor's degrees. Regional accreditation holds the highest regard in the industry and academia, offering better credit transferability and recognition by employers and graduate schools in the real estate field. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes six regional accrediting bodies: the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the New England Commission of Higher Education, the Higher Learning Commission, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. Programs accredited by any of these organizations boost a student's ability to transfer credits and pursue advanced education or licensing.
Some self-paced real estate programs also maintain programmatic accreditation, focusing specifically on business or real estate education, which supplements regional accreditation by confirming specialized academic quality. However, this form of accreditation is less common and is generally viewed as additional assurance rather than a substitute for regional recognition.
Choosing nationally accredited or non-accredited programs carries risks: national accreditation generally applies to vocational schools with less rigorous standards, which can restrict credit transfer and acceptance by employers. Non-accredited programs often disqualify students from federal financial aid and may hinder career growth, as employers and graduate programs might question the credibility of such credentials. To ensure a program's legitimacy, prospective students should consult the U.S. Department of Education's accreditation database or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) directory before enrolling.
Those interested in flexible learning options may also find value in exploring other fields that offer self-paced study models, such as a social media marketing degree.
- Regional Accreditation: Recognized as the gold standard, it ensures institutions meet rigorous academic and administrative standards preferred by employers and graduate schools in the real estate field.
- National Accreditation: Usually applies to vocational or specialized schools; it may limit credit transfers and has variable acceptance among employers.
- Programmatic Accreditation: Some self-paced real estate programs carry specialized accreditation that highlights focused academic quality but should supplement rather than replace regional accreditation.
- Credit Transfer Risks: Lack of regional accreditation often results in restricted transfer options, complicating further education or professional licensure pathways.
- Financial Aid Access: Federal aid eligibility typically requires enrollment in regionally accredited programs, impacting affordability for many students.
- Verification Resources: Prospective students should verify accreditation status through the U.S. Department of Education's accreditation database and CHEA directory to ensure recognized credentials and support career goals.
Transfer credits significantly affect the duration and cost of self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs. Generally, schools accept transfer credits from accredited institutions, military training evaluated according to the American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations, and through formal articulation agreements with community colleges. However, credit transfer policies vary widely, influencing how many previously earned credits count toward degree requirements. Prospective students should carefully review these policies to optimize their path to degree completion.
Many self-paced online real estate programs allow transfer of 60 to 90 semester credits. Programs featuring competency-based education models often provide the most flexibility, accepting up to 90 transfer credits and thereby reducing the coursework to only what remains. Military students can particularly benefit from ACE-recommended credits that acknowledge relevant training and experience, making these pathways more accessible. Students using community college credits should seek out schools with established articulation agreements that specify transferable courses, simplifying the evaluation process and clarifying how credits will apply.
Because credit acceptance policies vary by institution, requesting an official transfer credit evaluation before enrollment is vital. This process helps students understand the exact number of remaining courses and any related financial obligations. Those considering transfer credits in self-paced online real estate degrees should prioritize schools with transparent credit transfer policies to ensure an efficient, cost-effective educational experience. For students interested in accelerating their education, it may be helpful to explore options like the shortest masters degree programs for further advancement.
- Transfer Credit Limits: Most programs accept between 60 and 90 transfer credits, substantially reducing the time and cost required for degree completion.
- Military Training Recognition: ACE credit recommendations enable veterans to convert applicable military training into academic credit, streamlining their path to graduation.
- Articulation Agreements: Formal partnerships with community colleges guarantee transferability of specific real estate and general education credits, simplifying transfer evaluation.
- Institutional Variability: Credit acceptance differs widely among programs, so it is essential to examine each school's policies regarding transfer credits for self-paced online real estate degrees.
- Transfer Evaluation Importance: Securing an official credit evaluation before enrollment clarifies how many credits transfer and the remaining course load, impacting tuition and time to degree.
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) enables students in self-paced online real estate bachelor's programs to earn academic credit for knowledge acquired outside traditional classrooms. This includes professional work experience, military training, industry certifications, and independent study. Common methods for earning PLA credit embrace portfolio evaluations, challenge exams, and nationally recognized standardized tests such as CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) and DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests).
Institutions like Western Governors University and Thomas Edison State University offer some of the most accommodating PLA policies, often allowing up to 50% of degree credits to be earned through prior learning. These programs usually require students to submit comprehensive portfolios documenting their prior experience, including job descriptions, certificates, and reflective essays explaining their competency.
The American Council on Education (ACE) plays a crucial role by providing credit recommendations for military and workforce training, helping ensure consistent and fair transfer credits. This benefits military members and working professionals seeking to accelerate program completion while maintaining academic integrity.
In 2023, approximately 38% of online bachelor's students took advantage of PLA, reflecting its growing importance in modern, flexible education models. To maximize credit awards, students should carefully prepare detailed evidence of learning aligned with program requirements.
- Flexible Credit Limits: Many programs allow 30% to 50% of degree credits from prior learning, balancing flexibility with academic standards.
- Assessment Methods: Portfolios, standardized tests like CLEP and DSST, and challenge exams offer multiple routes to prove competency.
- ACE Credit Recommendations: ACE evaluations standardize credit awards for military and professional training nationwide.
- Documentation Requirements: Detailed portfolios including verified work history and credentials strengthen PLA proposals.
- Rising PLA Adoption: Over one-third of online bachelor's students reported using PLA in 2023, showing increased reliance on experiential learning.
Self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs frequently offer specialized tracks designed to enhance career readiness and align with labor market demands. These concentrations influence both the skills acquired and the time needed to complete the degree, varying by course load and any required certifications or internships.
- Real Estate Finance: Focused on financial analysis and investment strategies, this track suits careers like real estate analysts and financial advisors, with median salaries near $80,000-$90,000. Additional credentials such as the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) can boost employability.
- Property Management: Emphasizing the administration of residential or commercial properties, this concentration prepares students for roles like property managers or leasing agents, who typically earn around $60,000 annually. State-level certifications or practical experience may be necessary.
- Real Estate Development: Covering topics like project planning and construction oversight, this path leads to urban planners or development consultants, with salaries ranging from $70,000 to $100,000. Coursework intensity can extend degree completion times.
- Commercial Brokerage: Designed for those aiming to sell or lease commercial properties, this specialization demands negotiation and market analysis skills. Graduates become brokers or agents earning above $75,000, usually requiring state licensing.
- Real Estate Law and Ethics: Concentrating on legal and ethical aspects, this track prepares students for compliance or advisory positions. Licensing exams or certifications may be optional but beneficial, with generally lighter course loads that might speed up degree completion.
Choosing a concentration should balance individual interests with career opportunities and credential requirements, helping learners maximize the flexibility and outcomes of self-paced programs.
What Graduates Say About Self-Paced Online Real Estate Bachelor's Degree Programs
- Cade: "I chose the self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree program because it allowed me to balance my part-time job while studying at my own speed. The affordability was a huge plus-compared to traditional programs, it saved me thousands of dollars. Since graduating, I've successfully transitioned into a property management role, and the flexibility of my education really gave me the confidence to start my career strong."
- Mohamed: "Reflecting on my experience, the self-paced real estate program was ideal for me because it fit perfectly around my family responsibilities. The cost was reasonable, especially considering the comprehensive coursework and support I received. Professionally, earning this degree has opened doors to exciting investment opportunities that I wouldn't have been able to pursue otherwise."
- Axel: "As someone who values efficiency and practical outcomes, I was drawn to the self-paced online real estate bachelor's for its ability to let me apply what I learned directly to my job. Though the tuition was modest, the investment paid off quickly when I started closing higher-value deals. This degree fundamentally upgraded my market knowledge and boosted my credibility in the industry."
Other Things You Should Know About Real Estate Degrees
It should hold institutional accreditation from a U.S. Department of Education–recognized accreditor, such as a regional accreditor, before students enroll. Programs tied to licensure should also align with state real estate commission rules, because unaccredited degrees may not meet employer, transfer, or graduate school requirements.
These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to progress through coursework at their own pace without fixed class times. Support services often include virtual academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling accessible outside traditional hours. Programs may also offer generous transfer credits and prior learning assessments to help students reduce time and cost by recognizing previous work or education experience.
Graduates of self-paced online real estate bachelor's programs typically qualify for roles such as real estate agents, property managers, real estate analysts, and brokers. According to industry data, median annual salaries in these fields range widely, with agents earning around $50,000 to $60,000 and brokers potentially earning $70,000 or more with experience. Holding a bachelor's degree often improves job prospects and advancement potential in the competitive real estate market.
Admission requirements for 2027 self-paced online real estate bachelor's degree programs typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with transcripts. Some programs may ask for a personal statement or proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. Check specific program websites for further details.
- Comprehensive Guide to Financial Aid for Real Estate Education: Scholarships, Grants, and Loans https://goldcoastschools.com/news/financial-aid-real-estate-education/
- Why You Need a Competency-Based Education Model—And How to Create One https://www.openlms.net/blog/education/why-competency-based-education-how-to-implement/
- Become an Agent at Your Own Pace - Self-Paced Online Real Estate Courses https://www.rockwellinstitute.com/blog/advantages-self-paced-classes-real-estate-license/
- Online vs. In-Person Real Estate Classes: Which is Right for You? https://keyrealtyschool.com/blog/online-vs-in-person-classes/
- Real Estate Education: The Online Option https://urbanland.uli.org/development-business/real-estate-education-the-online-option
- Financial Aid For Online Colleges https://www.affordablecollegesonline.org/financial-aid/financial-aid-for-online-colleges/
- Online Bachelor with Smart Cities & Real Estate https://www.global-business-school.org/programs/bachelor-europe-bachelor-of-business-administration-online/online-bachelor-with-smart-cities-real-estate/
- Self-Paced Online/ Distance Ed Policies | Arkansas Real Estate School https://arkrealestateschool.com/self-paced-online-distance-ed-policies/
- Learning Real Estate: Online vs In-Person Courses https://www.recareercenter.com/learning-real-estate-online-vs-in-person/
- Self-Paced Learning: What to Expect From a CBE Program https://www.umassglobal.edu/blog-news/self-paced-learning-expect-a-cbe-program
