Micro-Credential, Degrees, and Single Academic Courses: Which is Right for You?

In today’s educational landscape, there are many options available to support your career advancement, which can be overwhelming to understand.  Each option offers advantages, but your path depends on your individual goals, resources, and circumstances. Let’s break down the options.   

What Are Micro-Credentials? 

Micro-credentials are short, focused programs designed to provide specific skills or knowledge in a particular area. These programs are often offered online and are quick to complete. They cater to working professionals looking to upskill or reskill quickly without committing to a multi-year program. 

Key Features of Micro-Credentials: 

• Time-Efficient: Can be completed in a matter of hours, weeks or months. 

• Cost-Effective: More affordable than traditional degrees. 

• Skill-Focused: Emphasis on practical, job-relevant skills. 

• Stackable: Often, multiple micro-credentials can be combined to create a more comprehensive qualification. 

What Are Single Credit-Bearing Academic Courses? 

Single credit-bearing academic courses are standalone classes offered by universities that count for academic credit. These courses often focus on a specific topic or skill and can be applied toward a degree program or taken independently for personal or professional development. 

Key Features of Single Credit-Bearing Courses: 

• Flexibility: Can be taken individually without committing to a full degree program. 

• Academic Rigor: Maintains the quality and depth of traditional university courses. 

• Transferable Credits: Can often be applied to a degree program later. 

• Cost: Typically more expensive than micro-credentials but less costly than a full degree. 

What Are Traditional Degrees? 

Traditional degrees involve comprehensive academic programs, typically spanning two to four years for undergraduates and additional years for postgraduate and advanced studies. They are offered by colleges and universities and provide broad knowledge and expertise in a specific field. 

Key Features of Traditional Degrees: 

• Comprehensive Education: Cover a wide range of subjects, offering depth and breadth. 

• Networking Opportunities: Access to alumni networks and campus resources. 

• Recognition: Widely recognized and valued across industries. 

• Time and Financial Investment: Require significant amounts of time and money. 

Create your Custom Mix. 

Everyone’s lives and goals are different and will change over time.  

The decision between micro-credentials, single credit-bearing courses, and traditional degrees ultimately depends on your career goals, financial situation, and time availability at any given time.  

Think about your goals and life circumstances as you make decisions for this stage of your educational journey.  

Consider Micro-Credentials If: 

• You need to acquire a specific skill quickly. 

• You are working and require flexibility in completion time, format, and cost.  

• Your industry values certifications and specialized skills. 

• You are exploring a new field before committing to a degree. 

Consider Single Credit-Bearing Courses If: 

• You want to deepen your knowledge in a specific subject without enrolling in a full degree program. 

• You’re exploring academic fields before committing to a major or advanced degree. 

• You need academic credit that might be applied to a future degree or meet a pre-requisite for a degree.  

• You prefer a structured traditional learning experience. 

Consider a Traditional Degree If: 

• You seek a deep, well-rounded education. 

• Your desired career or role requires a formal degree (e.g., medicine, law, engineering, business executive). 

• You value the networking and campus experience. 

• You have the time and financial resources to invest in a longer length of education. 

It is encouraged that you blend these offerings into a custom mix to help you meet your career goals and stay competitive over the course of your career. For example, someone may pursue a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, and after graduation, might pursue a single university course in advanced soil mechanics and later a micro-credential in project management to enhance their expertise.  

Keep in mind, education is a lifelong endeavor, you can build your customized journey over time!