What Are Microcredentials?
Microcredentials are short, focused learning experiences that help students develop specific, in-demand skills in a way that’s more flexible and accessible than traditional degrees.
With the rise of this innovative approach, West Virginia is stepping up to equip its students with the tools they need to thrive in today’s evolving workforce. Through Credential WV, the state is rolling out stackable credentials that empower students to gain industry-recognized skills tailored to the needs of the local job market.
What Has Been Done So Far?
In October 2024, leaders from West Virginia’s colleges and universities gathered to lay the groundwork for a new era of education. The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and Community and Technical College System brought together faculty, administrators, and industry experts to plan how to seamlessly integrate microcredentials into existing academic programs.
The goal: to offer students opportunities to develop specialized skills that give them a competitive edge in their careers.
Leaders from the West Virginia Manufacturers Association, Blenko Glass Co. and West Virginia Workforce Development provided insights from industry, while higher education officials from Colorado and Ohio shared best practices and lessons learned when developing their own microcredential programs. National experts from the Lumina Foundation, the Higher Learning Commission, Gallop, Astrum U and Anthology also participated. The summit was funded in part by the Lumina Foundation.
The summit marks the beginning of a three-year phased rollout of microcredentialing throughout West Virginia.
Here’s what’s next:
Year One
- Assess current campus resources and identify key industry partners.
- Design a flexible microcredential framework that will serve as the foundation for all future programs.
Year Two
- Expand the variety of microcredentials offered.
- Assess software needs and begin aligning industry certifications with academic credits, making learning both relevant and rewarding.
Year Three
- Implement aligned industry credentials into academic programs.
- Finalize the infrastructure for microcredential delivery and continue expanding offerings to meet the demands of both students and employers.
Through this strategic, ongoing effort, West Virginia is poised to lead the way in creating a more agile, skill-based education system that benefits students, businesses, and the state’s economy.
News
Oct. 15, 2024 West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission
Oct. 20, 2024 MetroNews
Oct. 21, 2024 WV Public Broadcasting
Resources
“Implementing microcredentials statewide can directly impact the lives of our students by meeting them where they are and preparing them for where they want to go. Imagine the working adult who can only take a few courses at a time, the recent high school graduate who wants to build a portfolio of skills quickly, or the mid-career worker who needs to reskill for a new job opportunity. With microcredentials, we can give these individuals practical, career-relevant tools they can apply immediately.”