As the saying goes, learning is a never-ending process, and this couldn’t be more evident in today’s world of work. By 2030, 30 million UK workers will need to be reskilled because of rapid advancements in technology and changing job market requirements, according to a report by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).
Forward-thinking organisations are responding to the skills revolution by adapting their operating models. By shifting the emphasis from traditional job titles to skills, these businesses are prioritising the development and future-proofing of employee skills and continuous learning as key drivers of success. For professionals, this means constantly evolving skill sets to adapt to new roles, as technologies and environments change.
Micro-credentials are emerging as an effective tool to satisfy the reskilling and upskilling needs of our workforce, offering individuals and businesses flexible and affordable opportunities to build in-demand, career-relevant skills.
So, what exactly are micro-credentials? Micro-credentials are bite-sized units of learning that focus on updating skills, knowledge, and/or experience in a particular discipline or capability. The term "micro" might suggest something small, however, the impact of micro-credentials is anything but. Also referred to as “nanodegrees” or “short courses”, these flexible, university accredited qualifications can often be achieved in just a few days or months.
Micro-credentials are designed to align with industry and learner needs, and often offer a narrower focus compared to traditional undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications. However, some micro-credentials encompass a broader subject focus rather than specific. For example, a business may need employees with the skills and expertise to interpret data effectively to inform decision-making therefore, a micro-credential focusing specifically on Strategic Digital Transformation would address this skills gap. Alternatively, wider micro-credentials in areas such as Project Management could be used to provide employees with practical skills and knowledge to drive better business outcomes.
A standout feature of micro-credentials is their ability to be stacked. Learners can start with a single micro-credential and, depending on time and financial commitments, may choose to build upon it. Over time, individuals can accumulate additional micro-credentials to deepen and broaden their expertise, eventually combining academic credits to achieve higher qualifications such as a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip), or even a Masters degree. The modular nature of these courses makes them more accessible for individuals balancing work, or other commitments.
Micro-credentials deliver many benefits for employees and employers of all sizes. For businesses, they provide a time and cost-effective way to upskill employees quickly and efficiently, maintaining a workforce that is both highly skilled and adaptable. Learning and development teams are integrating micro-credentials into their CPD frameworks to support continuous learning and employee engagement.
For learners, the flexibility of micro-credentials makes them especially attractive. The option to choose specific courses tailored to unique needs and interests facilitates personalised learning pathways. This approach allows professionals to target areas that align with their career aspirations and adapt to changing job demands and technologies.
It’s important to note that the rise of micro-credentials doesn't replace the depth and breadth of traditional higher education. Rather, micro-credentials serve as a valuable complement to degree programmes through added flexibility and relevance, particularly relevant to those who may already have a degree but want to update their skills. This is especially helpful for working professionals with limited time commitments who want to enhance their skills and boost their competitiveness.
Ulster University offers a range of professionally relevant, short courses and micro-credentials to help businesses and professionals re-skill, upskill and stay relevant in their field of choice. Focusing on specific skills required by a variety of in-demand jobs, the university’s portfolio includes credentials in Digital Marketing, Innovation Management, Operational Excellence, Global Business, Contemporary Issues in Tourism and Hospitality, Project Management, Responsible and Ethical Business Practice, Strategy, The Future of Work and more.
There are also funded options available through Ulster University which support people to future proof their skills and make an impact in the workplace. View more information on short courses or email engage@ulster.ac.uk