Microcredentials offer accessible education for evolving workforce
The world is changing more rapidly than ever these days, and with it, the job market. New technologies such as AI and evolving industry demands require workers to be more adaptable than ever to remain competitive and advance their careers.
Enter microcredentials: short courses or programs that focus on a specific set of skills or knowledge. Microcredentials help fulfill the specialized learning needs of our changing workforce, empowering individuals to take control of their education and career paths. They are offered by colleges, universities, companies, professional organizations and online education platforms like Coursera and edX.
Demand for this type of education is growing. According to research by Modern Campus, nearly 70 percent of learners want to fill education gaps with alternative or nondegree credentials. And a 2023 survey by Coursera indicated that employers are 72 percent more likely to hire a candidate who has earned a microcredential.
Micro learning, major impact
Microcredentials — often represented as digital badges shared online to verify particular skills — offer a flexible and affordable alternative or supplement to traditional degrees and training. The time it takes to acquire a microcredential is often relatively short, ranging from a few hours to weeks. Microcourses are also typically offered online, making them more accessible than in-person learning.
To demonstrate a broader range of knowledge and skills in a particular area, learners may combine or “stack” microcredentials. Stackable microcredentials are available for a wide and growing range of professions and disciplines, from IT and health care to skilled trades, communications and leadership. Depending on where you complete your program, you may be awarded academic or continuing education credit upon completion of your microcourse or stacked microcourses.
Microcredentialing advantages abound for employers as well, offering a cost-effective way to upskill or train employees in specific areas. Many microcredentials are developed in response to industry demand, helping organizations stay competitive in evolving markets.
A valuable student resource
While often associated with established professionals, microcredentials are also a helpful tool for high school and college students.
High school students can take advantage of microcredentials to explore various educational areas and professions to help determine their next steps. Community colleges may offer programs like dual enrollment to help students earn high school and college credits or even earn a certificate or industry credential.
Undergraduate and graduate students can use microcredentials to supplement their degree programs by developing concentrated knowledge in various subjects. This type of niche learning can help students stand out when it’s time to apply for a job.
Wherever you are in your educational or professional career, microcredentials offer a flexible, low-cost way to gain specific knowledge in a wide array of disciplines and industries. Make sure your program is provided by an accredited institution or trusted organization, get advice if you need it from an academic or career advisor and then dive in! You might be surprised how much you can learn — and gain — in a short period.
The Lifelong Learner is a monthly feature written by UW–Madison’s Continuing Studies staff. Stacy Iruk, academic advising manager, can be reached at [email protected].
This column was originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
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