Core Competencies in Civic Engagement

Civic learning happens at all stages of a young person’s life. Central to that citizen development is the learning that happens for those enrolled in higher education. This working paper considers what core competencies for civic engagement could be in academic major, minor, and certificate programs.

The findings of this working paper suggest categorizing the core competencies as civic knowledge, civic skills, civic practice, and civic inclinations. In addition to providing an outline of these core competencies, the paper also presents mini case studies on how other campuses and programs are implementing civic engagement competencies and measures.