Microqualifications and microdegrees: what they are and where they are used

Contents:

• How microdegrees appeared and why they became popular
• What key features of microdegrees are highlighted by UNESCO
• What are the advantages of microdegrees
• Why microdegrees are criticized
• How microdegrees are developing in Russia

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• What are commonly called microdegrees and how they appeared;
• What are their main features;
• What are the pros and cons of microdegrees;
• What traditional programs are courses with microdegrees similar to;
• What is the situation with microdegrees in Russia.

A microdegree, also known as a microqualification, is a qualification obtained upon completion of an educational program that is shorter than traditional forms of study, such as a bachelor's or master's degree. These programs are aimed at mastering specific skills and competencies in a narrow field. Microcredentials are becoming increasingly popular as they allow students to quickly acquire relevant knowledge and improve their competitiveness in the labor market.

The term "microcredentials" is actively used in discussions, articles, and research in the field of education. Regulatory frameworks for microcredentials continue to evolve, but the pace of development varies across countries. This is partly due to the lack of a universally accepted definition, which leads to a variety of interpretations and the inclusion of various educational programs within this category.

Microcredentials should not be confused with microlearning. Microlearning refers to short formats of educational content, where a single lesson might include reading a short article, completing a checklist, participating in a short exercise, or watching a ten-minute video lesson. This approach is widely used in various educational programs. At the same time, courses that students complete as microdegrees can include lessons of any length, including both short and long sessions.

How Microdegrees Came About and Why They Became Popular

Microdegrees have become a significant trend in professional education over the past few years. In particular, last year, the UK's Open University highlighted them as one of the key educational innovations. These learning formats allow students to acquire specific skills and knowledge in a compact and accessible form, making them particularly attractive to those seeking rapid career growth and professional development. Microdegrees meet the modern demands of the labor market, offering flexible and targeted educational solutions.

Microdegrees have become relevant in the context of the growing popularity of massive open online courses (MOOCs). Leading global platforms such as Coursera, edX, and Udacity began their operations in 2012. By 2015, they began looking for ways to monetize their courses and came up with the idea of ​​certifying their course graduates using a new format for educational credentials. Microdegrees provide the opportunity to earn recognized certificates, which contributes to career development and increased competitiveness in the job market.

Udacity, a pioneer in online education, introduced the concept of nanodegrees in collaboration with universities. This approach was quickly adopted by Coursera, which began combining short courses on related topics into specializations. To earn a microdegree in a specialization, a user must complete all courses within the program and complete a project. Thus, online education is evolving, offering users new opportunities to gain qualifications and enhance competencies in various fields.

Leading tech companies such as IBM and Google have become partners of the educational platforms. In addition to specializations, Coursera also offers other educational programs, the completion of which can lead to microdegrees in the form of professional certificates from partner companies. These programs are designed to be studied over several months and require sequential completion of courses, which distinguishes them from independent courses within specializations.

In addition to The labor market is also experiencing significant changes in response to the processes taking place on online platforms. Higher education requirements have begun to disappear from job postings at leading IT companies. Professional certificates, such as those offered by Google, are sometimes more valuable for employment than a traditional bachelor's degree from a traditional university. This new reality, including the possibility of remote learning and the growing importance of certificates, is significantly transforming the educational landscape.

What key features of microdegrees does UNESCO highlight?

In 2022, UNESCO, after consulting with numerous experts from around the world, released a report proposing a common definition of microdegrees. This report highlights the key characteristics of micro-qualifications.

• the qualification demonstrates that its holder has mastered a clearly defined set of competencies in a specific field;
• it is awarded following an assessment based on clear standards and conducted by a credible organization;
• it has independent value but can also complement other qualifications;
• the programme from which it is obtained meets applicable quality standards.

The UNESCO experts did not include a specific time frame for completion of the educational programme in the definition of micro-credentials. Instead, the accompanying text notes that these time frames are shorter than those of traditional programmes awarding qualifications and academic degrees. The accompanying text also identifies other characteristics of micro-credentials that highlight their uniqueness and advantages in the modern educational process. Microdegrees offer flexibility and accessibility, making them attractive to students seeking to quickly acquire new skills and knowledge.

They typically focus on vocational and other key competencies that are important for career advancement, allowing students to acquire the necessary skills for success throughout their career.

Microdegree programs are typically offered online or through blended learning. Upon completion of the course, participants receive a certificate, which is often digital rather than a traditional paper certificate.

There are also microdegrees that are awarded not only based on course completion but also on achievements and experience in the relevant field, such as volunteer projects. These microdegrees emphasize practical experience and active community involvement, which can be an important complement to a traditional education.

Microdegrees can be awarded by both commercial providers, such as online educational platforms offering courses, and traditional educational institutions. These programs offer flexible and accessible ways to gain new knowledge and skills, making them popular among students and professionals. Microdegrees allow you to quickly deepen your knowledge in a specific area or master new competencies, which is especially important in a rapidly changing labor market.

The UNESCO report notes that experts have not reached a consensus on certain characteristics of micro-degrees. In particular, there is disagreement regarding the need to confirm the achievement of a previous level of education to obtain a micro-degree. This uncertainty may affect the standardization of educational programs and their recognition at the international level.

Educational platforms with courses provide training opportunities for everyone, regardless of their previous education. This distinguishes micro-qualification programs from traditional Russian programs for advanced training and retraining, which require basic vocational education. However, not all international experts agree that this approach should be universal. Some believe that prior education can be important for the successful acquisition of new knowledge and skills.

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Micro-degrees represent the results of various educational programs offered in a variety of organizations. For example, they can be obtained through intensive courses, such as bootcamps covering an entire profession, or through short courses focused on specific skills. Microcredentials can also be linked to a series of webinars dedicated to specific tools and technologies, including even a single webinar. They can be offered as online courses on EdTech platforms, as training sessions within corporate training programs, or as university courses leading to certificates, including bachelor's programs. Microcredentials are becoming increasingly popular as they allow for quick and effective updating of knowledge and skills in a rapidly changing labor market. The question of what exactly the microcredential concept offers remains open. Short-term programs and practices aimed at developing professional skills have long been in place in various countries. For example, in Russia, there are courses for professional development and retraining, and in the United States, professional certificates are common. These documents confirm that their holders have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform specific professional tasks. Furthermore, in Germany, Switzerland, and other countries, the practice of enrolling non-resident students in university courses is popular. Thus, microqualifications can be seen as an extension of existing forms of education aimed at meeting labor market needs and developing professional competencies.

What are the benefits of microdegrees?

A new format of educational programs known as microdegrees is rapidly gaining popularity. They represent a solution to current problems in education and the labor market. Microdegrees offer a flexible approach to learning, allowing students to acquire specific skills and knowledge needed in a rapidly changing world. These programs help bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring the relevance and demand of the acquired competencies. Microdegrees are becoming an ideal choice for those who want to quickly adapt to changes in their profession and increase their competitiveness in the labor market.

• They are democratic because they are suitable for people with any level of education, which means they solve the problem of educational inequality.
• They are focused on individual learning, since if it is an online course, each program can be mastered at your own pace and breaks can be taken between courses.
• They are, by definition, practice-oriented, meaning that they allow employers to hire people with the necessary modern skills, and job seekers to acquire competencies in demand in the labor market.
• They require less development time than traditional university programs, which allows them to keep up with technological developments and current labor market needs.
• They are convenient for training busy people, as well as for those who live in regions remote from traditional educational institutions (or simply want to learn from specific experts). This is due to the fact that such programs are typically delivered online.

The main advantage of microdegrees is the ability to accumulate and integrate them into higher degrees. Although this opportunity has not yet been widely implemented, it is actively discussed in the educational community. A striking example is the educational credit system in South Korea, where learning outcomes from informal programs can be combined into a degree equivalent to a bachelor's degree. It is interesting that this system arose before the advent of mass online education, which allows us to assert that digitalization was not the only reason for its formation.

Modern Education systems can significantly impact traditional higher education. Currently, in many countries, school graduates are increasingly choosing short-term courses over academic education, allowing them to quickly acquire a sought-after profession and begin working. This trend is driven not only by the younger generation's desire for rapid financial independence, but also by a changing approach to education overall. New learning formats are becoming an alternative to traditional university programs, forcing a reconsideration of the value of diplomas and traditional educational models. Education experts and many graduates agree that learning is becoming a continuous process. In today's environment, it is necessary to constantly master new technologies, develop additional skills, and adapt to changing labor market demands. This leads to young people preferring not to spend a long time obtaining their first professional education after school, as was previously proposed. It is important to consider these trends in order to prepare specialists capable of successfully competing in a rapidly changing world. Education trends vary from country to country. In Russia, a college degree remains highly valued, especially if earned at a prestigious university. This factor often plays a key role early in a career. Meanwhile, in the US, the cost of higher education is significant, prompting applicants to consider shorter, more affordable programs that offer a faster return on investment. For example, many choose online colleges, which offer flexible learning options that allow students to study at their own pace. The level of employer trust in microcredentials as proof of employee qualifications varies across countries. This is confirmed by the World Economic Forum's "Future of Jobs" report, published every two years. The 2023 report found that, on average, only 20% of employers globally trust short-term courses and online certificates. However, the situation varies across countries. For example, in Korea and Switzerland, only 5% of employers view courses as reliable proof of skills, while in Finland and Pakistan, this percentage reaches 40-41%. These findings highlight the importance of context and local factors influencing the perception of educational qualifications.

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Figures: forecast of changes in jobs and employee training until 2027

According to research, many professions will undergo significant changes by 2027. Automation and the introduction of new technologies are expected to impact the employment structure. Some jobs may disappear, while others will emerge. A key aspect will be the need to retrain and upskill employees to meet new labor market demands.

According to forecasts, by 2027, more than 40% of workers may face the need to learn new skills. This will be due to the implementation of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other innovative technologies. To ensure competitiveness, companies will need to invest in training and development programs.

Employee training will become an integral part of corporate strategy. It is important for organizations to adapt to changes and offer their employees opportunities for professional growth. This will not only enhance their skills but also improve the company's overall performance.

Thus, by 2027, we can expect fundamental changes in the world of work that will require workers to be flexible and willing to learn throughout their careers.

Why microdegrees are criticized

Higher education is responding to the growing interest in short, practice-oriented programs by adapting its courses to the new demands of students and the labor market. Universities around the world are developing programs that enable students to acquire skills and knowledge in a compressed time frame. This can range from integrating new courses into traditional curricula to creating alternative learning formats that can completely replace traditional higher education. This approach gives students the opportunity to quickly adapt to changes in the professional environment and increases their competitiveness in the labor market. As a result, universities not only attract more students but also improve the quality of education, meeting modern requirements.

Experts at Educause, the association for the implementation of information technology in higher education, predict the development of microdegrees in the educational sector. They believe that universities can offer sets of short courses to both their students and graduates, which will enable reskilling, or retraining, of working professionals. By developing courses in accordance with employer demands, universities will be able to create practice-oriented educational pathways. It is believed that the future model of vocational education will be one in which each student will be able to independently create a unique educational program, combining various short-term courses with microdegrees. This approach will increase the flexibility and adaptability of the educational process, which is especially important in a rapidly changing labor market.

In recent years, the idea of ​​introducing microdegrees into educational institutions such as colleges and universities has become widespread abroad. Since 2015, this concept has been actively discussed in the United States, sometimes called a "frenzy." Criticism of microdegrees stems from various aspects of their application and perception in the educational system.

Some people express concerns about the product-based approach to university education, believing it could lead to even greater specialization. This could deprive students who choose microdegrees of the benefits of a traditional academic education. These benefits include fundamental knowledge, the development of a holistic worldview, independent learning skills, and the ability to analyze complex topics. In addition, traditional education promotes familiarity with disciplines that go beyond narrow professional interests, which is important for the comprehensive development of personality.

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The question of the need for a higher education diploma for a successful career remains relevant in the modern world. On the one hand, having a degree can open doors to many opportunities, especially in fields such as medicine, law, and engineering, where formal education is mandatory. On the other hand, in recent years, there has been a trend toward declining the importance of degrees in some sectors, such as IT, creative industries, and entrepreneurship, where practical skills and experience are often valued more than formal education. Employers are increasingly looking at applicants' competencies and skills, not just their degrees. This means that real-world experience, internships, and a portfolio may be a more important factor in hiring. However, for some professions, a degree remains critical and even mandatory. Therefore, it's worth considering your individual goals and career paths. It's important not only to obtain a degree but also to actively develop skills that are in demand in the labor market. Education, like a career, must be adaptable and responsive to rapidly changing conditions. The choice between a degree and practical experience depends on the chosen profession and personal preferences.

The concept of microcredentials is often criticized due to its vagueness. Firstly, there is no generally accepted and clear definition of which educational programs can be considered microcredentials. Secondly, there are no universal quality criteria for such programs, resulting in no guarantee of recognition of certificates awarded upon completion by employers and educational institutions. This creates uncertainty for students seeking additional qualifications and increased competitiveness in the labor market.

According to a global HolonIQ survey, university representatives suggest that microcredentials could become a viable alternative to traditional higher education in the coming years. However, more than 40% of respondents noted that they encounter difficulties in assessing the quality of such educational programs.

Qualification recognition systems that actively develop and integrate microdegrees are being developed in the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as at the level of individual US states. In CIS countries, such as Kazakhstan, there is also a trend toward implementing similar systems. These initiatives are aimed at improving the quality of education and enhancing the competitiveness of graduates in the global labor market. Importantly, microdegrees provide the opportunity to acquire specialized knowledge and skills, making education more flexible and adaptable to the demands of modern society.

The European approach to education provides a unified standard for describing microdegrees and recommendations for their use in adult education and higher education. Each country in the European Union develops and certifies such programs, taking into account its national qualifications system. This allows educational initiatives to be tailored to the needs of the labor market and improve the skills of workers.

The Australian education system has introduced a standard for describing microdegrees and defined minimum requirements for courses offered on the national marketplace. This ensures consistency and high standards of educational quality, allowing students to easily navigate available educational offerings. This creates a transparent structure that promotes more effective learning and the development of professional skills.

How Microdegrees Are Developing in Russia

Until recently, only HSE University offered microdegrees in Russia. Anna Korovko, HSE University's Senior Director for Core Educational Programs, noted that microdegrees at the university are not stand-alone courses, but rather modules integrated into undergraduate and graduate programs. These modules allow students to deepen their knowledge and skills in specific areas, making their education more flexible and adaptable to the demands of the labour market.

A microdegree can be earned by completing specific modules that focus on developing specific competencies important for students' career advancement. For example, this could include training in graphic design software or mastering a foreign language at a specific level. Such skills are valued by employers and help increase the competitiveness of graduates in the labor market.

The HSE offers a variety of Microdegrees are available to both university students and external participants. Course duration varies from two months to one year. Upon completion of the course, graduates receive a microqualification certificate, which validates their new knowledge and skills. These programs allow them to expand their professional competencies and improve their competitiveness in the labor market.

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Demand for microdegrees is growing in the labor market, notes Anna Korovko. She emphasizes that most job postings focus on specific skills rather than educational level. For example, job postings rarely include the phrase "seeking a bachelor's degree in economics." This indicates that employers value the practical skills and competencies that applicants can bring and are willing to consider candidates with microdegrees if they meet the job requirements.

Anna notes that when analyzing educational programs in the Russian market, one can find many examples of microdegrees. The key factor isn't the form of training—whether it's a continuing vocational education program or a module within a broader program—but rather how well the product contributes to the development of professional skills. It's also important to consider whether this skill can be acquired in less than two years. The expert emphasizes that the content of the training and its effectiveness are paramount for professional growth.

According to this perspective, vocational courses on EdTech platforms truly provide microqualifications. The "Digital Departments" project, launched last year at a number of universities, also envisions students acquiring additional digital microqualifications while pursuing their major. This allows them to develop in-demand skills in a rapidly changing labor market and increases their competitiveness. Thus, integrating digital qualifications into the educational process is becoming an important step toward preparing specialists prepared for the challenges of the modern economy.

In today's labor market, there is a trend toward recruiting employees based on their skills, rather than just academic degrees such as bachelor's, specialist, or master's degrees. At the same time, there is growing interest among working people in short-term programs. This creates the preconditions for Russian universities, which, according to Anna Korovko, will begin to more actively offer microdegrees. It's worth noting that there are no regulatory barriers to this process: Russian legislation allows students to earn additional qualifications while studying their main specialty. Thus, higher education institutions have the opportunity to adapt to market needs and offer their students relevant educational programs that meet the modern requirements of employers. New initiatives are being observed in higher education in Russia. In an interview with Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Tomsk State University Rector Eduard Galazhinsky announced the introduction of an experimental system under which certain educational programs will offer the opportunity to earn micro-qualifications. For example, in the Software Engineering program, the length of study will remain the same, but after two years of study, students will be able to earn micro-degrees confirming their skills at the level of an entry-level junior programmer. These microdegrees will help students demonstrate their professional competencies and begin working in their specialty while still studying, which will increase their competitiveness in the labor market.

In Russia, there is a movement toward introducing microqualifications within continuing professional education (CPE). The Russian Ministry of Labor and Social Protection proposes to identify industry-specific professional characteristics and microqualifications within the national system of professional qualifications. The main idea is to develop specifications that detail the requirements for specific skills across various professional sectors. Unlike existing professional standards, which cover entire types of activities and are described more generally, microqualifications will focus on highly specialized skills. This will allow people without a higher education, such as students, to gain the opportunity to master in-demand skills and improve their competitiveness in the labor market.

The issue of formal recognition of microcredentials obtained through online courses is becoming increasingly relevant in Russia. To this end, course certification with specialized universities is proposed. As a result, online school certificates could receive official status similar to microcredentials. This will create new opportunities for students and professionals, increasing the value of online education and facilitating its integration into the traditional educational system.

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