Alternative non-degree credentials are slowly becoming higher education’s hottest learning modality. Enrollment is strong and employer buy-in is promising. However, two reports from UPCEA demonstrate that despite institutions’ increased infrastructure to provide these academic programs, challenges persist—and they’re leaving money on the table as a result. In a December 2023 report that studied nearly 100 UPCEA members representing institutions focused on online and continuing education, 94% said their institution offers alternative credentials, and 66% said senior leadership has become fundamental to their institutions’ strategic plans. These schools’ most common alternative credentials were non-credit certificates, professional certificates and digital badges.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Microcredentials on the Rise, but Not at Colleges -- Kathryn Palmer, Inside Higher Ed
A new survey found training partnerships between employers and four-year colleges fell between 2022 and 2023 while instruction provided by third-party providers rose. As the pool of traditional-age students shrinks, colleges are increasingly turning to nondegree credentials to expand the appeal of their academic offerings to working adults. At the same time, an increasing number of employers want their employees to be able to upskill and reskill through microcredential programs. But four-year institutions are lagging behind third-party providers, such as LinkedIn Learning and Coursera, in their efforts to create employer partnerships, according to a new report released Tuesday by Collegis Education, an online program support company, and UPCEA, the organization previously known as the University Professional and Continuing Education Association.
Monday, January 29, 2024
Udacity launches GenAI nanodegree program - Venture Beat
The online learning platform Udacity has launched a generative AI Nanodegree Program so professionals can keep up with the fast-growing field. Mountain View, California-based Udacity said it aims to equip professionals with essential skills to navigate the dynamic and rapidly growing field of generative AI, anticipating its significant impact on various industries.
https://venturebeat.com/ai/udacity-launches-genai-nanodegree-program/
Sunday, January 28, 2024
How Is the Learn-and-Work Ecosystem Like an Ecological Ecosystem—And Why Does This Matter? Holly Zanville, the Evolllution
The term ecosystem is increasingly used in discussions about learning and work. For instance, two national initiatives—Credential As You Go and the Learn & Work Ecosystem Library—are framing their work as an effort to improve the learn-and-work ecosystem. Also, Noah Geisel at the University of Colorado Boulder recently chose a relevant theme for his university’s badging conference in summer 2024: not “it takes a village,” rather “it takes an ecosystem.” Despite the growing understanding that our systems of education and employment do indeed comprise of an ecosystem, that term is still more commonly associated with natural, biological systems than with social ones. Are they the same thing? And does the answer to that question really matter? I have come to believe that they are very similar—and yes, it does matter.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Twelve Google and IBM Professional Certificates on Coursera Receive ECTS Credit Recommendations - Business Wire
Coursera is announcing today the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) has certified 12 Professional Certificates from Google and IBM, with European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credit recommendations available exclusively on Coursera. Now, ministries, higher education institutions, and students can accept and transfer university credit for eligible industry micro-credentials on Coursera at institutions across 49 member nations in the ECC/Bologna process. This cross-sector initiative represents a major step toward establishing a global ecosystem for credit recognition of online learning and industry micro-credentials.
Friday, January 26, 2024
University of Jamestown launches online MBA program - Jamestown Sun
The MBA, led by program director Michael Brizek, is one of the only all-online MBA programs in the country to include specialized micro-credentials. According to UJ Executive Vice President and Provost Paul Olson, these micro-credentials offer flexibility, focus and market alignment. “I like the curriculum that Dr. Brizek and the faculty have developed because it has all the essential elements of an excellent MBA program and has the added bonus of micro-credentials that allow students to specialize in the areas that best meet their professional goals and needs,” Olson said.
Thursday, January 25, 2024
What are micro-qualifications? - Blathnaid O’Dea, Silicon Republic (Ireland)
Semantics aside, the 24 new micro-qualifications are skills programmes to be delivered by Ireland’s network of local education and training boards (ETBs). There are 16 of those across the country, so courses will be available in a lot of different locales. The courses have been developed by industry and are aimed at employees with little or no cost to employers. Organisations involved in their development include Solas, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Irish Water, IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and the Regional Skills Fora. Like micro-credentials, which are provided by third-level institutions, micro-qualifications are intended to address current skills gaps in areas such as sustainability, digital, advanced manufacturing, robotics, aquaculture, business innovation and market development.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Alternative Credentials: 5 Things Universities & Colleges Need to Know Articles - Digital Marketing Institute
In a hyper-connected digital age, professionals across industries are looking for new ways to acquire relevant skills and showcase their value to employers. As a result, alternative credentials including badges, certificates, and micro-credentials have seen an enormous rise in popularity due to their accessibility, flexibility and demonstrable practical value. With digital transformation changing how people learn, work, and communicate, non-traditional credentials offer people a way to master skills in niche areas of expertise. In this article, we explore five key ways that alternative credentials can drive success in universities and colleges.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts to end degree programs - Laura Spitalniak, Higher Ed Dive
The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts will discontinue its bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at the end of the 2024-25 academic year, citing declining enrollment and increased operating costs. PAFA’s board of trustees unanimously voted to end the programs Tuesday after attempts to find an academic partner proved unsuccessful, it announced Wednesday. The 218-year-old Philadelphia institution, which bills itself as the first art school and museum in the U.S, will continue to offer its certificate and continuing education programs.
Monday, January 22, 2024
A New App Just Launched To Help HBCU Students Prepare For The Workforce - Jasmine Browley, Essence
“PROPEL Learn is a pioneering app that empowers HBCU students with the latest technological innovations, shaping the future of our workforce. Our unique approach of co-developing micro- credentials with industry partners and HBCU faculty ensures an unparalleled learning experience for the entire ecosystem of learners,” said Dr. Camesha Whittaker, Senior Vice President of Innovation and Design at PROPEL in a statement. “With the ability to reach nearly 300,000 students, PROPEL Learn leaves no institution behind. It is the ultimate solution for advanced engagement, up-skilling, and an indispensable companion to all HBCU institutional offerings.”
https://www.essence.com/news/money-career/propel-app-hbcu-students/
Sunday, January 21, 2024
How the Online Certificate Status Protocol and OCSP Stapling work & more - Sectigo Team, Security Boulevard
The Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) allows clients (e.g., web browsers) to verify the validity of digital certificates in real time. Certificate Revocations Lists (CRLs), are lists of digital certificates that have been revoked by the issuing Certificate Authority (CA) before their scheduled expiration date, can also be used to check untrustworthy or revoked certificates. However, due to CRLs being updated at intervals and providing stale information and also OCSP responses being smaller than CRL files and suitable for devices with limited memory they are often preferred. Let’s look at how OCSP works, its pros and cons, the potential privacy concerns OCSP stapling helps solve, and how OCSP differs from certificate revocation lists (CRLs).
Saturday, January 20, 2024
More than half of Americans no longer believe college is worth the cost. Paid internships could help - Stephen Moret and Jeff Selingo, Fast Company
Estimates from the New York Federal Reserve indicate that recent college grads have faced higher unemployment rates than other workers, a shift from typical historical patterns. What’s more, roughly 40% of recent college grads are considered “underemployed,” meaning they are not working in a college-level job. With those sobering statistics in mind, it’s not surprising that more than half of Americans no longer believe college is worth the cost. We believe internships are a crucial component of translating the college experience into a career. One year after graduation, students who completed a paid internship, for instance, earn $3,000 more than those who didn’t have one.
Friday, January 19, 2024
3 Questions for Illinois Tech About Its Innovative New Online Programs - Joshua Kim, Inside Higher Ed
Addressing the growing some college, no credential population is crucial. Our bachelor’s completion degree through Coursera caters to this segment, delivering quality education aligned with career success. We are committed to ensuring that our online students experience the same impressive outcomes, such as starting salaries, that our on-campus students do.
Thursday, January 18, 2024
Strategic Integration Challenges And Opportunities For Alternative Credentials In Higher Education - JOY LIWANAG, UNIVERSITYHERALD
A recent study by the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) sheds light on the adoption of alternative credentials in higher education. While many colleges prioritize online, professional, and continuing education, a significant number have yet to integrate alternative credentials strategically. The study delves into the challenges, opportunities, and varying business models associated with these credentials.
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
College Launches New Micro-Credential Program - Mike Robertson, the College Today
The College of Charleston is partnering with global online learning platform Coursera to launch a new program providing industry-branded micro-credentials to students, faculty and staff at no cost. Students will be able to earn professional certificates for in-demand workplace skills that will complement any academic major or minor. Faculty and staff will also be able to earn professional certificates through flexible, online training. “This partnership will provide members of the College of Charleston community the opportunity to build skills using resources from some of the world’s leading companies,” says College of Charleston President Andrew T. Hsu. “As one of the oldest colleges in the nation, the College of Charleston is setting the blueprint for other liberal arts institutions to follow.”
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
https://www.msstate.edu/newsroom/article/2023/12/new-msu-programs-grow-opportunities-student-research-internships - Mississippi State University
New programs at Mississippi State University are enhancing opportunities for undergraduate research and internship experiences. In 2023, the second cohort of students participated in the BRIDGES (Building Relationships that Intentionally Develop Generations of Excellent Scholars) Undergrad Research Program and the first cohort participated in the Workforce Scholars Initiative. Administered jointly by MSU’s Office of Research and Economic Development and the Division of Access, Opportunity and Success, BRIDGES aims to increase the participation of undergraduate minority and underserved students in MSU research activities. The program engages students in meaningful paid work that helps prepare them for career and graduate school opportunities.
Monday, January 15, 2024
Minnesota DNR looking to fill 200 paid summer internships - Grand Forks Herald
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is looking for passionate and dedicated students interested in learning more about natural resource careers through paid summer internships, the agency said in a news release. DNR summer interns gain valuable training, build meaningful experience and help create a healthy, sustainable and inclusive Minnesota, the DNR said. The DNR has a wide variety of internship opportunities throughout the state – about 200, in all – including in fisheries, forestry, park operations, watercraft inspections, communications and more. Interns work 20 to 40 hours per week and receive a competitive wage of $19 per hour. To be considered for an internship, fulfilling an academic requirement or receiving academic credit is required.
Sunday, January 14, 2024
Internship scholarship supports teacher education students - University of Alaska, Local First Media
The Alaska College of Education Consortium (ACEC), encompassing the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), and University of Alaska Southeast (UAS), has announced the second year of its Teacher Internship Scholarship Program. This initiative, supported by the collaborative efforts of the Alaska State Legislature, Governor, and UA President Pat Pitney, and coordinated with the assistance of ACEC Liaison Bridget Weiss, highlights the strength of unity in advancing educational opportunities across the state. UAA School of Education Dean Tonia Dousay remarked on the impact of this program: “This opportunity ensures our teacher candidates can focus on their professional growth rather than their personal finances. It’s a game-changer for aspiring educators in Alaska.”
Saturday, January 13, 2024
New Research: UPCEA Reveals Key Findings on Alternative Credentials - UPCEA
UPCEA, the online and professional education association, is proud to share findings and takeaways from a new research study, Alternative Credentials: Business and Program Models. The research, supported by a grant from Walmart, is part of UPCEA’s “Building Capacity, Expanding Pathways: Accelerating the Growth of Credential Innovation in Higher Education” project. The project aims to accelerate the development and delivery by colleges and universities of noncredit, short-term credentials for and with local, regional, or statewide businesses. The study reveals a widespread embrace of alternative credentials among institutions, ranging from non-credit certificates to massive open online courses (MOOCs), particularly within UPCEA's membership, which is predominantly focused on online and professional continuing education. Despite the acceptance of alternative credentials, a notable finding is that a significant number of institutions do not yet view them as a strategic priority.
Friday, January 12, 2024
10 Disruptive Trends for Higher Education 2024 - Sanjay Sharma, Times of India
Explore the transformative landscape of higher education in 2024 with these 10 disruptive trends. from the surge in micro-credentials to the rising prominence of apprenticeships, witness the evolution reshaping learning approaches, employment paradigms, and student well-being. In response to the changing job landscape, more learners are opting for shorter, targeted education options known as micro-credentials. These focused and specialized programs provide practical skills, making them attractive to both students and employers.
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Time for Micro-Credentials - Bo Harald, FinExtra
The first step for education and qualification providers in all sectors is to deploy their own identity applications so that citizens can get their skill-credentials to their wallets in the same way from all sources. Providing the economy of repetition, economy of reuse and economy of trust. This will create a market for service providers specialising in helping citizens to deploy wallets, find existing credentials and with the help of AI locate opportunities for new skill credentials. With technology and markets leaping ahead with increasing speed it is obvious that a new approach is needed in education, research and on-the-job learning - the short courses leading to real-time issue of micro-credentials to the job applicants wallet for on-warding to the potential employer - without disclosing names, ages, sexes etc if not needed.
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Digital badge and micro credentials cover many industries including biotechnology: Moore About Business - Karen Moore, WGCU
"At the ultimate end of the course, you have this actual digital badge that you can put on your LinkedIn page, your CV, your resume to showcase that you are competent in the competencies that we put forward to be achieved in this course. And then what's unique to Arthrex, is that we guarantee an interview at Arthrex. It doesn't guarantee you a job, but it guarantees you a foot in the door and what an incredible experience to have and to learn from! That is an opportunity in and of itself!"
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Geoff Johnson: Changes in society and the workplace call for shift in education - Times-Colonist
The same survey revealed that the most common reasons people gave for changing career paths were discovering a new field they were passionate about (35 per cent), becoming bored/disillusioned with their original work (24 per cent), and setbacks such as lack of advancement and/or cutbacks, layoffs in a career path (19 per cent). Whatever the reason, a common concern among people in their late 20s, 30s, and 40s who are looking for a change is whether they should go back to school. For people in the 35 to 40 age bracket, family, mortgage and a variety of responsibilities stand in the way of that. Enter the relatively new range of micro-credential opportunities offered by universities like Camosun College, the University of Victoria and Royal Roads along with many other universities and colleges across Canada.
Monday, January 8, 2024
Credential Confusion A call for uniformity in practice and terminology. - Mike Simmons and Quintina Barnett Gallion, Inside Higher Ed
“As colleges and universities continue to confront digital transformation, they must ask themselves, ‘What does our core product—the educational credential—evolve to look like in a more data-rich, technology-centric world?’” —Sean Gallagher, Aug. 10, 2023 When the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers joined the “Beyond Transfer” conversation this year, we noted the need to broaden the conversation about transfer and credit mobility to better encompass learning mobility on a global scale. Over the year, our members have reflected on transfer business models, evaluated the transfer student experience, revealed transformation through automation, examined partnership agreements with alternative credential providers, questioned the trust between institutions and affirmed the need for institutions to focus on adult learners.
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Microcredentials Confuse Employers, Colleges and Learners - Susan D. A'gustino, Inside Higher Ed
Three recent studies highlight confusion about alternative credentials. But all parties seek quality, verifiable, bite-size, low-priced online offerings targeting specific industries. Reskilling. Upskilling. Certificates. Certifications. Badges. Licenses. Microcredentials. Alternative credentials. Digital credentials. So many terms. So little agreement on what they mean, least of all in higher ed. “Employers say, ‘It’s great that this individual has these skills, but we’ll ask our own questions to verify the learner’s knowledge,’” Kyle Albert, assistant research professor at the George Washington University Institute of Public Policy, said. “It’s a trust-but-verify situation.”
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Apprenticeships Offer ‘Learn and Earn’ Pathways to Opportunity Education - Bruno V. Manno, Walton Family Foundation
Apprenticeship programs, where individuals earn a living while learning with a mentor, are turning the workplace into the new learning campus. This learn-and-earn model is spawning new apprenticeship programs based on traditional registered apprenticeships, including pre-apprenticeships, mini-apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and apprenticeship degrees. And a new third-party organization — the apprenticeship intermediary — is being created to expand and run these programs.
Friday, January 5, 2024
$1,500 Missouri Tax Credits for Internships and Apprenticeships: What Is It? - Aman Jain, 247Wallet
Missouri Gov. Parson signed legislation, called the Intern and Apprentice Recruitment Act, which is included in House Bill 417. This legislation, which easily passed the legislature earlier this year, encourages businesses to boost the number of interns or apprentices. The new legislation “will help increase apprenticeship opportunities, strengthen our workforce, and give Missourians the skills and on-the-job training they need to be successful in their chosen careers,” Gov. Parson said. Under this new legislation, companies will get a $1,500 tax credit for each paid intern or apprentice up to $9,000 for six such positions. A point to note is that the Missouri tax credits for internships and apprenticeships apply only to newly created positions.
Thursday, January 4, 2024
Apprenticeships and Pre-Apprenticeships - Ohio Department of Education
Apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and related technical instruction. A student must be at least 16 years of age except where a higher minimum age standard is required by law. An apprenticeship program must be registered with The Ohio Apprenticeship Council to teach a skilled occupation pursuant to a registered apprenticeship agreement. Apprenticeship is limited to skilled occupations and trades that meet basic criteria through On-the-Job (OJT) Training and Related Technical Instruction (RTI).
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
The French fintechs offering internships and apprenticeships - Alex McMurray, eFinancial Careers
Established firms aren't the only place to start your financial services career in France. A number of growing French fintechs offer early career jobs. Internships are popular but some French fintechs also offer 'formations en alternance', a sort of degree apprenticeship. French payroll technology startup PayFit is one of France's biggest student hirers. It has 13 internships across its Paris and Barcelona offices, covering everything from sales, to law and data science. It's also hiring four apprentices in Paris, in areas including cybersecurity and talent acquisition.
https://www.efinancialcareers.com/news/2023/09/french-fintech-internships
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Internship Vs. Apprenticeship: Let’s Compare - Kayla Missman, Forbes
There’s no better way to learn a job than with hands-on experience. Internships and apprenticeships both offer valuable learning opportunities for new employees, but they serve different purposes. Most people complete one or the other, depending on their career goals. Internships are a common requirement in college degree programs, allowing students to test what they’ve learned in a natural environment. Due to their short-term nature, interns can experience different jobs and companies before committing. In comparison, apprenticeships prepare workers for one specific job. Apprentices work in skilled trades like construction or roles like cybersecurity specialists, electricians, and healthcare assistants.
Monday, January 1, 2024
EPISODE 129: RYAN TORMA Creating a Student Experience that Captivates Learners - Modern Campus
In the modern learning landscape, learners require concise and timely education outside the traditional academic calendar. Creating standout programs and fostering collaboration to leverage microcredentials campus-wide are essential for learner success. On this episode, Ryan Torma, Executive Director of Professional Development and Lifelong Learning at the University of Minnesota, discusses how to make microcredential programming stand out to learners and what’s required to make a positive and engaging student experience.
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