How Micro-Credentials Can Make a Big Difference

More people are starting to discover the benefits of micro-credentials – often a cost-effective, efficient, and flexible way to gain a new skill. 
 
Although you may have heard of micro-credentials, do you know what they are? Or how they might help you in your career?

What are they?

Micro-credentials range from single-day learning experiences to multi-week courses, but all are designed to teach you a specific skill within a short timeframe. After you finish, you are provided with proof of completion, which can come in different formats such as digital badges or certificates.

Micro-credentials can be used as the first step in ongoing learning opportunities. For example, some institutions offer credit bearing micro-credentials that can be applied toward a larger credential or qualification, including some undergraduate programs. While micro-credentials often focus on specific competencies or topics, many institutions provide the opportunity to bundle similar micro-credentials together and receive a certificate after completing all courses in the series.   

What are the benefits?

With flexible delivery options and shorter durations, micro-credential programs offer the ability to develop new skills while maintaining your day job. These courses can help you grow in your current field of work, break into a niche job market or boost your resume. Micro-credentials are also a great way to complement your current education and experience without the hefty price tag of a full certificate or degree program. 

Micro-credentials provide competency-based learning opportunities that align with labour market or community needs. And as the labour market continues to evolve, employers will be looking for specific skills to fill current and new opportunities. However, it doesn’t need to be a guessing game. Check out Skills for the Future Workforce to learn more about the type of skills that are useful in the emerging and future job market. 

Where can I get them?

While LinkedIn Learning or Google Career Certificate can provide easy and affordable ways to dive into a new topic, many B.C. educational institutions are expanding their micro-credentials thanks to the implementation of the 2021 Micro-credential Framework for B.C. This framework supports the ongoing expansion and shared understanding of key aspects of micro-credentials across the province, making public post-secondary institutions a great first option. 

To get started, check out the list of micro-credentials offered in B.C. It’s worth noting that many public post-secondary institutions now offer micro-credentials online or in a hybrid learning format, which makes it easier than ever to access courses and programs available at institutions across the province.

What else do I need to know?

As short-term training programs continue to help individuals obtain specialized skills in their preferred field, the B.C. Government has created the StrongerBC future skills grant to support British Columbians in their ongoing educational pursuits. The grant offers up to $3,500 in funding from a list of approved short-term programs, and it includes a variety of eligible micro-credentials to choose from. You can find out more about the grant here.

Micro-credentials are a great way to quickly learn a new skill. With the addition of a guiding framework in the province, the future skills grant and more online or hybrid learning options, it’s easier than ever to learn the skills you need to expand your career opportunities.