When it comes to preparing for the Professional Engineer (PE) exam, the search for School of PE vs Capstone Learning is common. After all, choosing the right prep course is a crucial part of the process of becoming an engineering pro.
With an overall first-time pass rate of approximately 59.6%, this isn’t something on which you’ll want to skimp.
Two popular options, School of PE and Capstone Learning, offer programs designed to help candidates excel. But which is a better choice?
Let’s dive into what each program offers and explore which might be the best fit for you.
Key Takeaways
- Course Options and Formats: With both on-demand and live online classes, School of PE offers flexible subscription plans, whereas Capstone Learning provides live online courses, on-demand options, and self-study packages.
- Lectures and Video Content: While School of PE features a vast library of video lectures complemented by live, interactive sessions, Capstone Learning emphasizes interactive, hands-on content with real-time quizzes and problem-solving sessions.
- Adaptive Learning and Technology: To enhance the learning experience, both School of PE and Capstone Learning incorporate advanced technology.
- User Support and Experience: Comprehensive support with personal counselors and a pass guarantee is provided by School of PE, whereas Capstone Learning focuses on personalized instruction and expert access.
- Value and Pricing: School of PE stands out with flexible pricing options and extensive study materials, offering superior value. In contrast, Capstone Learning justifies its higher price point with a focus on interactive and practical learning, catering to those seeking an immersive experience.
School of PE Review Courses
School of PE offers a comprehensive suite of PE exam review courses tailored for various engineering disciplines. Their various PE review course offerings include:
- FE Exam Prep Courses: FE Civil, FE Environmental, FE Electrical, FE Chemical, FE Mechanical, FE Industrial, and FE Other (General).
- PE Exam Prep Courses: PE Civil, PE Electrical and Computer, CA Civil, PE Structural (SE Exam), PE Mechanical, Chemical PE Exam, Civil PE Exam, and other PE disciplines.
These courses are available in two primary formats: on-demand and live online classes, catering to different learning preferences and schedules.
Course Formats
- Monthly Subscription: Provides immediate access to the on-demand course, including a digital review guide, question bank, and flashcards.
- 4-Month Access: Includes both digital and paperback review guides, practice exams, a question bank, and flashcards.
- 6-Month Access: Extends the 4-month access features for an additional two months.
- 12-Month Access: Offers a full year of access with all the resources provided in shorter-term subscriptions.
School of PE
Save Up to $300 on School of PE PE Courses
Save Up to $300 on School of PE FE Courses
Get $100 Off School of PE PE Review Course
Exciting New In-Person PE Civil Courses!
School of PE has also introduced accelerated in-person learning courses for PE Civil, designed to get you exam-ready in just 4 weekends. This comprehensive program offers a total of 56 hours of focused, expert-led instruction tailored to meet the latest exam specifications.
What’s Included:
- 4 weekends of immersive learning with top-notch instructors
- $500 early registration discount—lock in your savings today!
- A complete course notes binder and brand-new workbook, updated to reflect current exam standards
- Ebook and hard copy for both V1 and V2 of the course materials
Why go in person?
- Interactive Learning: Benefit from face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers
- Premium Materials: Access exclusive, exam-specific content
- Accelerated Pace: Complete your prep in a fraction of the time
Whether you’re focused on Transportation, Construction, Geotechnical, or Structural Engineering, these courses are designed to support your specialized goals.
Capstone Learning Review Courses
Capstone Learning, known for its PE prep courses and its structured and hands-on approach, offers a specialized PE exam prep course across several engineering disciplines. This course includes:
- FE Exam Prep Courses: FE Civil, FE Mechanical, FE Electrical, FE Chemical, FE Environmental, and other specific disciplines.
- PE Exam Prep Courses: PE Civil, PE Mechanical, PE Electrical & Computer, PE Environmental, PE Structural, and more. Capstone Learning also offers the ultimate civil PE review, a comprehensive course designed for self-driven learners aiming to pass the civil PE exam.
Course Formats
- Live Online Courses: Features interactive classes with real-time quizzes, practice exams, and a comprehensive support system.
- On-Demand Courses: Provides flexible study options with access to recorded lectures and extensive resources.
- Self-Study Packages: Includes access to a curated set of study materials, test banks, and practice questions for self-paced learning.
Capstone Learning Associates
Study Materials and Content
Both School of PE and Capstone Learning offer comprehensive study materials but differ in approach:
School of PE
Known for a wide array of meticulously designed materials by professional engineers, including detailed video lectures, comprehensive course notes, flashcards, and practice problems. Their content breakdown is user-friendly, allowing students to learn at their own pace with live online sessions for immediate feedback.
Capstone Learning
Focuses on practical, hands-on learning with interactive elements like live problem-solving sessions and real-time quizzes. They provide thorough course notes and practice exams with detailed explanations.
Verdict: School of PE
While both School of PE and Capstone Learning provide comprehensive study materials, School of PE excels with its meticulously designed content and user-friendly format. The detailed video lectures, comprehensive course notes, and interactive live online sessions offer a structured and effective learning experience, making it the preferred choice for PE exam preparation.
Technology and Practice Exams
Effective use of technology and access to practice exams are essential for preparing for the PE exam. School of PE and Capstone Learning both leverage technology to enhance their offerings, but they employ different engineering study methods to cater to the diverse needs of students.
School of PE
School of PE utilizes its Practice Portal to offer a robust and customizable learning experience. Key features include:
- Focused Quizzes: The Practice Portal allows students to create customized quizzes focusing on specific topics or areas where they need improvement.
- Simulated Test Conditions: Quizzes can mimic real exam conditions with customizable question counts and timed sessions.
- Performance Tracking: Detailed analytics track student performance, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
- Immediate Feedback: After completing a quiz, students receive instant feedback with detailed explanations for each PE and FE practice question.
Capstone Learning
Capstone Learning also incorporates advanced technology to provide a personalized and interactive study experience. Key aspects include:
- Interactive Learning: The platform offers live problem-solving sessions and real-time quizzes, which are integral to its practical, hands-on learning approach.
- Targeted Practice: The technology directs students to specific practice problems and study materials that address their weakest areas, ensuring focused and efficient study time.
- Real-Time Adjustments: As students progress, the system provides real-time feedback and adjustments to their study plans, helping them stay on track with their PE or FE preparation.
- Comprehensive Analytics: Detailed analytics offer insights into student performance, tracking improvement over time and adjusting strategies as needed.
Verdict: Tie
Both School of PE and Capstone Learning excel in leveraging technology and practice exams to enhance the learning experience. School of PE is ideal for students who prefer a structured, quiz-based approach with detailed analytics, while Capstone Learning is best suited for those who value interactive, real-time feedback and hands-on practice.
Value and Pricing Comparison
Choosing the right exam prep course often comes down to the value you receive for the price. Both School of PE and Capstone Learning offer various pricing options, each with different features and resources. Here’s a detailed comparison of what you get for your money with each provider.
School of PE
School of PE offers a range of pricing options tailored to different budgets and preparation needs. Their pricing structure is flexible, allowing students to select the duration and format that best aligns with their study schedule.
Pricing Options:
- Monthly Subscription: $440 for FE courses, $540 for PE courses.
- 4-Month Access: $1,190 for FE courses, $1,790 for PE courses.
- 6-Month Access: $1,390 for FE courses, $1,990 for PE courses.
- 12-Month Access: $1,790 for FE courses.
Capstone Learning
Capstone Learning also offers multiple pricing tiers, focusing on interactive and practical learning experiences. Their pricing structure reflects the depth and hands-on nature of their courses.
Pricing Options:
- Live Online Courses: $1,895 for FE courses, $2,795 for PE courses.
- On-Demand Courses: Starting at $250 for FE courses, $600 for PE courses.
- Self-Study Packages: $199 for FE courses, $299 for PE courses.
Verdict: School of PE
While both School of PE and Capstone Learning offer valuable resources and support, School of PE edges out slightly due to its flexible pricing options and extensive range of study materials. The ability to choose from different subscription durations and the comprehensive nature of the provided resources make it a superior value proposition to Capstone Learning Associates for students looking for a balanced and effective preparation experience.
Final Verdict: School of PE
After evaluating both School of PE and Capstone Learning for PE exam preparation, School of PE emerges as the superior choice. Its flexible course offerings, comprehensive study materials, and robust support system make it an excellent option for a wide range of students.
Capstone Learning excels with its personalized instruction and practical, hands-on learning experiences. However, School of PE’s versatility and extensive resources make it the better option for those seeking a well-rounded and effective study experience.
FAQs
School of PE offers more flexibility and a wider range of course materials, while Capstone Learning provides a more personalized and interactive experience.
School of PE offers both live online and on-demand courses. Capstone Learning primarily offers live online classes.
Yes, School of PE offers a pass guarantee, allowing students to retake courses for free if they do not pass the exam.
School of PE offers customizable quizzes through its Practice Portal, while Capstone Learning provides real-time feedback and personalized support.
School of PE generally offers more flexible pricing options for PE FE review courses, while Capstone Learning may have higher costs due to its focus on interactive learning.
