Why it matters
Short courses, micro-credentials and verifiable digital certificates are expanding as employers and learners look for flexible ways to build skills.
Learners want flexible ways to gain skills throughout their careers, and employers want evidence of specific skills. Short, recognised courses and verifiable credentials help meet both needs.
By the numbers
94%of employers surveyed in seven countries would offer higher starting salaries to graduates with micro-credentials 1
92%of US employers said the same 1
What's changing
- The EU has adopted a common approach to micro-credentials.
- Employers can verify digital credentials instantly.
- Employers and universities are designing courses together.
How leaders are responding
- Designing stackable short courses with industry partners.
- Issuing verifiable digital credentials.
- Recognising prior learning.
What good looks like
- Credentials issued in open, verifiable digital formats
- Short courses designed with employers
- Learning records that people own and can share
What to watch
- National frameworks for micro-credentials.
- Digital credential standards and wallets.
- Employer recognition of short courses.
Where to start
Develop a small portfolio of short courses with employers in high-demand areas, and issue verifiable digital credentials.
Questions for your leadership team
- Which skills do employers in our region need?
- How will employers verify our credentials?
- How do short courses connect to degrees?
