An integrated assessment framework for competency-based engineering education aligning learning outcomes, project-based learning, and industry internships

The increasing disconnect between expected competencies and student learning outcomes in engineering education highlights the need for integrated assessment frameworks that better align academic training with professional requirements. This study explores how accreditation-oriented frameworks can be leveraged to align measurable learning outcomes with the development of professional competencies, while strengthening quality assurance in educational programs. To this end, an integrated assessment framework is proposed, combining direct evaluations, project-based learning approaches, and internship-driven assessments to comprehensively capture both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The proposed approach is illustrated through a case study conducted within the Energetics and Renewable Energy Engineering (EREE) program at the School of Energy Engineering of the International University of Rabat. The results demonstrate that this method significantly enhances competency acquisition across multiple dimensions, effectively bridging the gap between academic outcomes and industry expectations. While these findings are promising, further research is required to validate the proposed framework across different engineering disciplines and institutional contexts. Overall, the proposed framework provides a valuable tool for aligning academic programs with industry needs, accreditation requirements, and quality assurance objectives, ensuring that graduates are equipped with both academic knowledge and professional competencies suited to a global workforce.