Updated Content 01/28/2026
According to a LinkedIn article, skills-based hiring is on the rise in the United States. LinkedIn found that 93% of employers who are hiring acknowledge that a potential employee’s skill level is directly related to the quality of the hire, not simply their level of education or past experiences. This increased focus on hiring candidates with the right skill set has led to the emerging trend of skills-based learning.
So, East Ohio College (EOC) is here to explain the emerging trend of skills-based learning and how it can benefit you. Keep reading to learn all about it!
What Is Skills-Based Learning?
Skills-based learning enables students to acquire knowledge, learn new concepts in the classroom, and apply these skills in practice. This includes an increased focus on hands-on training that equips students with real skills for their careers. Some options for skills-based learning include interactive labs, hands-on practice, and an externship experience.
Why All the Focus on Skills?
There are many reasons for the emerging trend of skills-based learning. First, employers want job candidates who already possess the skills required for their specific job. It takes time and resources to train employees, so hiring candidates who are ready to perform their specialized skills from the first day on the job helps employers save on their valuable resources.
Second, an increased focus on skills helps students stay up to date with the latest best practices, trends, and technology for their chosen career field. For example, a nurse must have the most up-to-date training available to effectively care for patients in a healthcare setting.
Third, learning and practicing skills while in school helps individuals stay ahead of rapidly changing job markets and helps bridge the gap between what employers need and the skills people currently have.
What Are the Benefits of Skills-Based Learning?
For students who choose a college degree focused on skills-based learning, there are many benefits. One of the main benefits is that they only take the classes needed for their new career, rather than taking years of general education classes. This allows students to finish college faster because they don’t have to spend four to six years in school.
Another great benefit is learning skills that employers actually need. For example, at EOC, our college degree programs are designed to meet the needs of local employers. Students in our career-focused programs prepare for professional, skills-based certifications specific to their chosen career field. Additionally, students complete an externship as part of their program, which allows them to apply their skills in the real world. Gaining valuable experience and preparing for professional certifications* helps graduates stand out in the job market when they start their new careers.
Many people learn better by doing rather than just by listening to a lecture. Because of this, when people have the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment, they pick up skills faster and improve at them. This type of hands-on training also gives students the chance to enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they must make decisions in the moment while practicing.
How To Choose the Right Program?
With so many different college and training options available, it can be challenging to choose the right program that offers this type of skills-based learning. The first step is to look for a program that teaches the exact skills needed for the career you want to pursue. For example, if you are interested in becoming a medical assistant, you will need a program that provides training for the valuable skills medical assistants use every day, such as taking vital signs, performing lab tests, and drawing blood.
You will also want to choose a program that includes practical ways to practice your skills and gain experience, such as hands-on training, interactive labs, externship opportunities, and certification preparation, as offered in our degree programs here at East Ohio College.
If you’re ready to enroll in a career-focused college degree program that gives you the skills-based learning and hands-on experience you need to succeed in today’s job market, we are here to help!
Discover our online and online/hybrid programs in Nursing, Clinical Medical Assistant, Dental Assisting, Medical Coding, Medical Office Administration, Cybersecurity, and Business Administration.
Contact us today to get started on your path to an exciting new career!
*Certification is contingent upon passing the corresponding industry certification exam.
Certifying entities are independent and not affiliated with or connected to East Ohio College in any manner.