Welcome to the Genuine Learning Blog! Today, we’re diving into the significant proposed revisions to the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) standards—an update that touches everyone involved in CPE, from CPAs taking courses to providers who design them. These changes are part of an exposure draft released by NASBA and signal the future direction of CPE over the coming years.

Why These Changes Matter

Every two years, a work group reviews the CPE standards, asking whether they still fit modern practice. This cycle is especially noteworthy as it recognizes the rapid evolution of technology in professional education, with AI and new adaptive formats changing how learning happens.

How the Standards Are Being Organized

One of the most sweeping changes is the move from a dense checklist of rules to a principles-based structure. Instead of sifting through a scattered set of requirements, the standards are now anchored to seven key principles that define the purpose, quality expectations, and criteria for measuring CPE credits.

Other organizational cleanups include:

– Removal of Article 2: Previously non-authoritative and confusing, now gone.
– Elimination of References: Independent study and university credit references have been removed due to different state treatments.

Updated Program Definitions & Flexibility

The exposure draft introduces a clearer breakdown of program types:

– Three Major Groups: Group, self-study, and blended programs are formally defined, with both in-person and virtual formats included under group and blended.
– Expanded Self-Study: Now encompasses adaptive learning and nano learning, bringing shortened “nano” programs under one unified self-study umbrella.

This reorganization not only reflects how CPAs are already learning but also unlocks new flexibility in course design and delivery.

Engagement Requirements: Raising the Bar for Interaction

A standout proposal is the extension of engagement requirements to all program types—not just traditional group live formats. Under the new standards, self-study must offer meaningful learner interactions. Engagement can include:

– Review questions with feedback
– Simulations
– Role play
– Hands-on activities
– Interactive demonstrations

Feedback is evolving too. Rather than strict rules requiring detailed explanations for every answer, providers can now use “principle-based feedback,” focusing on reinforcing understanding and highlighting knowledge gaps. This common-sense approach gives educators the tools to create more interactive and engaging self-study programs—which CPAs and providers alike should welcome.

Credit Increments: Greater Modularity

Another practical update is the adjustment of credit increments:

– Group Programs: Now can start at half-credit, not just a full one.
– Self-Study: Programs can begin at 1/5 or 1/2 credit, with additional credits earned in those increments.

This modular system not only offers flexibility but also makes nano learning a subset of self-study, simplifying the structure and reducing administrative overhead. However, final authority still rests with state boards, so the rollout of these features will vary by state.

What’s Next? Preparing for the Changes

If you’re worried about past courses being devalued—good news! Any program that meets the current 2024 standards will still count under the new proposal. There’s no set effective date yet; the draft will go through feedback, committee review, and board approval before state boards implement the changes.

How Can You Prepare?

– Read the Exposure Draft: Submit any feedback by December 17th.
– Review Your Programs: Assess upcoming CPE offerings and consider how new flexibility might enhance delivery and engagement.
– Connect with Your LMS or CPE Vendors: Make sure they’re prepared for updates.

At GLS, we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes and ensure your training investment delivers real value. If you have questions, or specific CPE needs—for yourself or your firm—reach out! We’re here to support your success every step of the way.