About Micro-Credentials

A micro-credential is a small program that allows you to gain relevant skills that are needed in today’s workforce. Digital badges are achievements that you can show to the world.

Why enroll in a micro-credential program?

  • Micro-credentials take less time to earn than a degree. At never more than 11 credits, micro-credentials are smaller than a degree or advanced certificate, and can be earned in as little as one semester.
  • You choose what you learn. Micro-credentials give you the freedom to learn what you want, without the financial and time commitments of a degree. You can earn a micro-credential in your own field of study, like a "mini concentration" or you may earn a micro-credential in a field of study outside your major, like a "mini-minor".
  • You choose what you earn. Micro-credentials can be credit-bearing or not-for-credit. Students who complete a credit-bearing micro-credential program will receive a notation on their academic transcript as well as a digital badge. Students who complete a non-credit program will receive a digital badge.
  • No additional costs. There are no costs to enroll in micro-credentials, beyond regular tuition rates.

Digital Badges Defined

Sample generic badge.

A digital badge is a new type of credential that allows you to show specific skills that you have gained through learning experiences. A digital badge is an icon but it is not a static image. It is clickable and houses information such as the issuing institution, the date earned, the criteria required to earn the badge and the evidence that shows that you have met the required criteria. Digital badges are dynamic credentials that you own, so you can decide how you want to use them. Once you earn a badge you own it, so you may use it however you wish. Digital badges can be put on social media sites, such as LinkedIn, added as a link on your digital resume, embedded in your e-portfolio and more.

Benefits

Earn stackable skills that differentiate you, academically and professionally.

While hundreds of individuals might earn the same badge, each badge is unique due to its verifiable metadata. Metadata includes information regarding issuing institution, date of issuance, criteria for earning and evidence that the learner has met the criteria. Evidence is supporting information such as: the learner's work, rubrics, course information, peer or expert endorsement, narratives, documents, videos, etc. Evidence can be uploaded or shared via a link. Each program will require a distinct piece of evidence that will be embedded in your badge.

Personalize your learning through credit and non-credit bearing opportunities.

Micro-credentials allow you to gain knowledge and skills in areas that are important to you. Because micro-credentials are small programs, they are easier to add to your schedule than a full major, minor or certificate. This allows you to diversify your skill-set and earn credentials that help you to meet your unique goals.

Gain skills to keep you at the leading edge of your discipline, whether you're a current UB student, prospective student or industry professional.

Micro-credentials and digital badges at UB are aligned with the competencies of 21st century workforce, including critical thinking, professionalism, intercultural fluency, digital technology and more. These programs are specifically designed to better equip you with the skills that employees demand and to help you to communicate those skills in the right setting. 

Display badges that contain your achievements and competencies to employers, colleagues and peers.

Digital badges are valuable in that they offer more ways to showcase and share skills, knowledge and achievements, than a typical transcript. Digital badges can be shared:

  • On your social media accounts, such as LinkedIn.
  • On your digital resumes.
  • In your ePortfolio.
  • In your email signature.