No group can claim professional standing without explicit statements about what constitutes competence in that field and the means by which competence can be attained and assessed. The definition of competencies is the beginning step in a total competency based program of administrative development. Such definition includes (1) specification of the task or defined role; and (2) indication of the knowledge, ability, or other identifiable characteristics needed to perform the task or role. Competency statements are written in molar form, including required technical, conceptual, and human knowledge skills. These statements are then ordered according to priority and the level of competence (familiarity, understanding, or application) specified. A new model for administrative development works from an agreed conceptual level about the components needed for an integrated, quality development program and attempts to indicate where differences of opinion lie about implementation within each component. The primary means by which competence is to be attained can be classified in a unified program that extends from formal university instruction into on-the-job education in the field. (Author/WM)