Employers regard non-degree, alternative credentials positively: Study

A recent US study led by the University Professional and Continuing Education Association found that many employers regard non-degree, alternative credentials–such as micro-credentials–in a positive light, but that there is work to be done to standardize them and ensure their validity. The researchers surveyed executives, supervisors, and HR professionals and found that many of these employers felt that participation in micro-credentials reflected positively on an employee and helped to communicate their competencies and skills. Some expressed reservations about the relevance and/or quality of these credentials, and the researchers noted issues with the standardization, validity testing, and applicability of curriculum. Employers were highly interested in being involved in the future development of alternative and non-degree credentials and the design of curriculum.