Blackboard Milestone: Badging and micro-credentials made easy

Students today are embracing a lifelong view of learning, focusing on the development of competencies throughout their higher education journey and beyond. Blackboard® Milestone is a user-friendly badging and microcredentialing solution that streamlines adoption, improves motivation, and helps learners market their skills in the workforce.

https://www.blackboard.com/material/blackboard-milestone

Micro-credentials a new pathway to decent jobs - Ernie Cecilia, Manila Times

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) reported in 2022: “Micro-credentials are by no means new, with many, such as short-term courses, having been offered by different providers for years.” Micro-credentials are short, flexible and targeted learning modules that allow learners to upskill without committing to a full degree. Colleges and universities can offer stackable, industry-aligned credentials to help individuals adapt to the rapidly changing skills requirements in the workplace and promote lifelong learning. It is the new learning pathway to supplement macro-credentials (the full degree or qualification programs). It can be a tool to “downsize and shorten longer learning programs for greater agility, flexibility, and diversity.”

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/03/19/campus-press/micro-credentials-a-new-pathway-to-decent-jobs/2302648

How Saudi Arabia is leading the AI classroom shift - Waad Hussain, Arab News

“Micro-credentials are really just an indicator of a lifelong learning shift,” Salcito told Arab News. “There was a time where you would build a four-year study and degree to fuel you through a world of work that was fairly stagnant or wasn’t changing as rapidly as the current world of work we're in now.” To remain relevant, Saudi institutions are increasingly embracing blended academic models. Faculty members are partnering with Coursera to embed content from industry leaders directly into curricula. "What I think we're starting to see is universities increasingly embrace micro-credentials and industry content within the context of a four-year degree or university curriculum,” Salcito said. “This is something Coursera is doing a lot of work with, both providing micro-credentials across our platform, but working with faculty members to embed content from leading industry providers like Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, Google within the context of a university course.”

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2636984/amp

Director of Microcredentials and Innovation Credential Strategy Cate Tolnai spotlights Career Pathways framework, open standards and EC-Council collaboration to strengthen credential portability and learner agency - PR Newswire

As employer demand grows across cybersecurity, healthcare, business and other fast-evolving fields, Tolnai's session explored how institutions can move beyond stand-alone micro-credentials to standards-based career pathways that are responsive, portable and verifiable. Tolnai also discussed how the University's Career Pathways framework leverages interoperability and open standards—including Open Badges 3.0, CTDL and the TrustEd Credential Framework—to align academic learning with employer-validated credentials and strengthen learner agency.  University of Phoenix's digital badging work supports working adult learners by helping them translate learning into clear, shareable evidence of assessed skills as they progress—course by course—toward longer-term goals. The University recently celebrated issuing one million digital badges for skills obtained in undergraduate, graduate and professional development courses.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/university-of-phoenix-leadership-shares-standards-based-approach-to-career-aligned-micro-credentials-at-1edtech-2026-digital-credentials-summit-302714764.html

Microcredentials get first-ever endorsement from accreditor - Alcino Donadel, University Business

The Higher Learning Commission has endorsed four organizations that offer short-term credentials to colleges and universities, marking the first time the accreditor has formally verified the quality of a third-party provider focused on certificates, digital badges and microcredentials, according to a press release. There are now over a million microcredential offerings on the market, offering to quickly teach students skills demanded by today’s workforce. Often dubbed “micropathways,” these credentials also serve to complement traditional degrees by signaling specific job-ready competencies to employers.

https://universitybusiness.com/microcredentials-get-first-ever-endorsement-from-accreditor/

Occupational Requirements Survey - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The Occupational Requirements Survey (ORS) publishes job-related information on physical demands; environmental conditions; education, training, and experience; as well as cognitive and mental requirements. The job requirements reflect those necessary for workers to perform critical tasks in support of the critical job functions, and not the capabilities of individual workers. Credentials include training time required as a condition of hiring, which often results in certifications, licenses, or educational certificates and are part of the education, training, and experience requirements. The published estimates reflect the percentage of workers with credential requirements and the time necessary to obtain them.

https://www.bls.gov/ors/factsheet/credentials.htm

Graduate Certificates Programs in Illinois - Rana Waxman, Grad schools.com

A graduate certificate, sometimes referred to as a diploma, or postgraduate certificate, is a short term 

Graduate Certificate Programs may provide a valuable academic credential in all fields of study. Many are available in subjects as diverse as ESL, business administration, IT and taxation. One of the potential benefits to a graduate certificate is that it may help you develop new skills and build expertise in a single professional area. These focused abilities might be used for several objectives. You could update your professional profile, expand your knowledge base, explore new fields or prepare for a graduate degree.

To be eligible for a postgraduate certificate, you must already have a bachelors degree. Most certificate programs of this nature offer open admissions, which lets students bypass the work and wait time of a full application. Requirements for professional graduate certificates can run a bit differently. Applicants may need to have earned a masters degree in a field related to the certificate. They may also have to furnish transcripts, resume, essay, and letter(s) of recommendation. Programs vary.

https://www.gradschools.com/certificate

28 of the Most Popular Online Certificate Programs - Indeed

Certification programs have become a staple of continuing education for many professionals in the workforce, helping students gain in-demand skills that supplement their academic or professional careers. Certifications are cost-efficient, typically allowing individuals to gain skills and knowledge at a lower cost than tuition at a four-year university. Learning about various online certificate programs may help you find a program that fits your needs and budget. In this article, we list 28 online certification programs that can strengthen your professional experience and assist in your next job search.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/best-online-certificate-programs

IIT launches new online certificate programme in data science and machine learning for working professionals - Times of India

New Delhi: As the global economy transitions to data-driven decision-making, the demand for data science and machine learning professionals has surged. Keeping this in mind, IIT Delhi has introduced a new certificate programme in data science and machine learning to meet the rising demand for skilled tech professionals. The programme will begin on June 29 and will be conducted through live, interactive online sessions. The course is ideal for early to mid-level professionals who want to build a solid foundation or deepen their expertise in data science and machine learning to enhance their career opportunities. "As organisations worldwide increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making and AI-powered solutions, expertise in data science and machine learning has become a crucial advantage for career advancement," said an official.

https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/news/iit-launches-new-online-certificate-programme-in-data-science-and-machine-learning-for-working-professionals/ar-AA1GXP5v

EMPOWERING MICRO-CREDENTIALS THROUGH EUROPEAN UNIVERSITIES ALLIANCES: A SYSTEMATIC MAPPING AND CASE STUDY APPROACH - Alexandru CARŢIŞ, Romiță Iucu, Institutul de Științe ale Educației

In recent years, micro-credentials have emerged as one of the most significant innovations in European higher education, responding to increasing demands for flexible learning, lifelong upskilling, and stronger links between universities, the labour market, and societal needs. Understanding how these new learning formats are implemented is crucial for advancing both educational innovation and sustainable development. This study analyses how the 65 European Universities Alliances integrate micro-credentials to enhance curriculum flexibility, employability, and sustainability in higher education, while also exploring their alignment with SDG 4 and SDG 8 and addressing challenges in recognition, governance, and policy coherence. A comparative analysis is conducted using document analysis and systematic mapping of institutional frameworks, models, and strategic priorities. A structured evaluation matrix assesses micro-credential adoption based on modular learning pathways, cross-institutional recognition, and labour market integration across alliances. Micro-credentials are here to stay and are increasingly embedded in the strategic and educational approaches of alliances.

https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=1389809

Understanding USC's undergraduate interdisciplinary certificates - Catherine Pruitt, U of SC

The University of South Carolina’s comprehensive interdisciplinary certificates allow undergraduate students to elevate their level of academic and professional learning. Certificates are the perfect opportunity for students to learn new skills and strengthen their potential beyond their major and/or minor. Students can apply for the following certificates: AI Literacy, Data Analytics and Visualization, Digital Studies, Project Leadership and Management, and Strategic Thinking and Communications. USC works with students to make earning the additional certificate(s) as straightforward as possible. Enrollment into a certificate program is open any time online. To earn a certificate, you only need to pass four applicable courses. These courses have no prerequisites, and if you have previously taken a course on the approved list, it can count toward the certificate.

https://www.sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2026/02/02-undergraduate-certificate-programs.php

New line of learning design and technology certification programs position educators entering new era - Marcia Sweet, Purdue

Lecturers. Trainers. Teachers. Development specialists. Advisors. Instructional coordinators. While educators have many names, Purdue University’s College of Education is unveiling a series of new online graduate certificates designed to enhance the skills of anyone in the learning design and technology field.  The newest programs, the Graduate Certificate in Technology Integration for Learning and the Graduate Certificate in Workplace Learning, were created to empower educators and trainers in every professional arena.  

https://www.purdue.edu/online/new-line-of-learning-design-and-technology-certification-programs-position-educators-entering-new-era/

A Vexing Problem for College Students: Course Availability - Ann Carrns, NY Times

A report published Friday by Instructure, an education technology firm, concluded that limitations in course availability “are not isolated incidents but reflect a broader trend in how students navigate academic pathways.” The report included a survey of more than 1,000 college students and recent graduates, which found that 85 percent of those responding reported at least some difficulty registering for a required course. About three-quarters said limited course availability made it more likely that they would need extra semesters to complete their degree.

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/06/your-money/college-students-course-availability.html?unlocked_article_code=1.SVA.uhOq.ODXN7Q9NpQcZ&smid=url-share

Your work experience could count toward a university degree at CapU - Capulano University

You’ve finished high school, worked for a few years and perhaps attended some post-secondary education here and there but nothing really resonated with you or you didn’t find your ideal fit. Adult learners are in every class at Capilano University (CapU), whether they’re working towards a bachelor’s degree, boosting their resume with a diploma or certificate program or improving their grades in preparation for their Adult Dogwood exam. For those new to post-secondary education, CapU provides a welcoming environment; for those returning after a break, it offers a supportive space to continue their studies. CapU serves as the starting point for this next phase of learning and career development.

https://www.nsnews.com/sponsored/your-work-experience-could-count-toward-a-university-degree-at-capu-11816744

College-led group explores solutions for outdoor rec sector - E-Know.CA

College of the Rockies welcomed a group of subject matter experts on February 13 to explore innovative solutions that strengthen workforce training, sustainable practices, and local industry capacity in British Columbia’s growing outdoor recreation sector. The session was conducted in collaboration with Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE). The Rehub Outdoor Gear Workforce Development working group examined opportunities for micro-credentials, applied research, hands-on training, and the development of a permanent outdoor gear repair facility. This facility has the potential to evolve into a space for small-batch manufacturing, dual use (civilian and military) prototyping, and collaborative applied research agreements with local and regional companies. It would also provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience in repair design, and product development.

https://www.e-know.ca/regions/east-kootenay/college-led-group-explores-solutions-for-outdoor-rec-sector/

College of Education receives $900K GAINS grant to expand paid teacher apprenticeships - Rowan University

Led by principal investigator Cori Brown, Ph.D., with co-principal investigators Drs. Joanne Connor, Gaëtane Jean-Marie and Stacey Leftwich, the initiative will partner with local school districts to create 76 earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship pathways. These pathways will allow aspiring educators to build hands-on classroom experience while completing state certification requirements. The fully funded model provides approximately $12,000 in support for each apprentice, helping to eliminate financial barriers, expand accessible routes into teaching, and bolster district–university partnerships aimed at tackling teacher shortages. Apprentices will receive structured mentoring, clinical preparation and academic support, while partner districts benefit from a reliable pipeline of well-prepared educators committed to serving their communities.

https://today.rowan.edu/news/2026/02/college-of-education-receives-900k-gains-grant-to-expand-paid-teacher-apprenticeships.html

Lakeland University is expanding access to college credit by awarding academic credits for work experience completed through Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship program. Eligible students can earn three cooperative education credits for prior learning, or up to nine credits if they enroll at Lakeland as degree-seeking students. The initial three credits may also transfer to other colleges and universities that accept them. To qualify, students must complete a state-approved youth apprenticeship, which includes at least 450 hours of paid, work-based learning over 12 months.

https://www.sheboyganpress.com/story/news/education/2026/03/02/lakeland-adds-college-credit-option-for-wisconsin-youth-apprentices/88904890007/

Can Traditional Accreditors Oversee Microcredentials Programs? - George Leef, National Review

America’s educational accrediting organizations purport to ensure quality in college and university degree programs, but that’s laughable — many programs remain accredited who graduate students who have learned little or nothing. Now that there is a burgeoning market for “microcredentials,” people are asking if the accreditors should oversee them.

https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/can-traditional-accreditors-oversee-microcredentials-programs/

Purdue’s AI microcredentials now being offered at a discount for faculty, staff and students - Irm Barton, Purdue

 Purdue University’s innovative AI microcredential courses are now being offered at a discount for faculty, staff and students for a limited time. These 100% online courses, which can be completed in as little as 15 hours, provide in-demand AI skills for professionals in a wide range of industries and roles.  With the discount applied, each microcredential course costs only $75 for faculty and $25 for students and staff. There are 13 microcredential courses available covering topics like AI policy and governance, data and AI storytelling, machine learning fundamentals, and natural language processing solutions. The typical cost for each course is $500. 

https://www.purdue.edu/online/purdues-ai-microcredentials-now-being-offered-at-a-discount-for-faculty-staff-and-students/

BGSU only public university in Ohio to provide state-supported microcredential training - Lindsay-Jo Douglas, Bowling Green State University

BGSU is the only public university in Ohio providing training at no cost through the state’s Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP), which is funded by the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation. Applications for spring sessions are currently open, with the first four-week module starting on March 9. Available to all Ohioans, IMAP microcredentials are short-term, industry-recognized, and technology-focused, providing in-demand skills to help individuals advance their careers or transition into new roles.

https://bgindependentmedia.org/bgsu-only-public-university-in-ohio-to-provide-state-supported-microcredential-training/

New microcredentials at Brandeis offer added value, career-oriented skills - Brandeis

Starting in the spring 2026 semester, Brandeis undergraduate students will have the opportunity to earn course-based, hard-skill microcredentials as part of the university’s plan to reinvent the liberal arts by blending a rigorous liberal arts education with an intense focus on career readiness.The five pilot microcredentials available for spring 2026 will certify students in specialized, career-focused skills that will be reflected on official Brandeis transcripts. Digital badges can be shared on platforms like LinkedIn, offering new ways to “show what you know” to employers. To earn microcredentials, students are required to take a sequence of courses followed by an assessment separate from the normal course grading process. These microcredential opportunities are available to Brandeis undergraduates at no additional cost; the assessments are being developed concurrently with the rollout of the spring 2026 microcredentials.

https://www.brandeis.edu/stories/2025/december/of-note/microcredentials-brandeis.html