CPCS distribution requirements are designed to provide each student with a varied and integrated educational experience that helps to achieve the outcomes designated in the competencies associated with each area. While demonstrating their competencies, students also develop a portfolio of their accomplishments in these skills to submit for evaluation. The portfolio also includes a self-assessment of the learning process. Each student participates in an in-depth project or study focusing on community change, critical inquiry, policy development and advocacy, or social research. Each student completes a major comprising eight competencies, in addition to the distribution requirements listed above.
Some majors draw competencies from more than one program area.
The learning plan serves as the student's road map through the curriculum's requirements and options. The learning plan follows a developmental framework, in which skills build on each other as a student progresses to higher levels. Students have several options for demonstrating each competency in the learning plan.