Rockin' the Skills Chain: Stackable Credentials and Their Bounty
A Breakdown of Layered Certification: Stackable Credentials Explained.
onde hard-hitting, jargon-free guide to stackable credentials is here! We'll dig into why these course bundles are turning heads in the education world, back by the big leagues like Harvard University.
Today's schools are embracing programs that issue micro-credentials, tiny but mighty qualifications that can give you an edge when furthering your education or boosting your field expertise. But, what is all this fuss about stackable credentials? Let's untangle the mystery!
Globally, the popularity of stacking credentials is growing fast. According to the Rand Corporation, the stacking rate in colleges across the U.S., particularly in Colorado and Ohio community colleges, varies between 20 to 63 percent! That's a huge potential for students to mix and match educational opportunities.
So, What's the Tea on Stackable Credentials?
In a nutshell, stackable credentials are bite-sized learning chunks or certifications designed to help learners master specific skills or areas. These ain't just single-use tickets; they can be combined (or stacked) to form a more comprehensive qualification, like a degree.
These bad boys have taken off like wildfire because they cater to learners who want to figure out their career path without taking unnecessary risks. Since they're short, students can test the waters for their dream field without committing to a full-blown degree, which can save them from those painful "what ifs" in the future.
Stackable Programs: A New Way of Rolling
Now you're probably wondering, "How do stackable programs stack up against traditional education?" Well, unlike the classic approach where one moves from high school to college, and then onto a degree, these short-term programs are all about helping learners uncover their calling.
Leaving a program suddenly isn't a biggie in the world of stackable programs. There's no FOMO because these programs carry enough clout to help students enroll in higher education down the line. And, since flexibility is the name of the game, they find it more convenient to dabble in new fields before settling on their dream gig.
Score Big with Stackable Micro-Credentials
These short-term programs offer a bunch of perks, including...
Get Ahead in the Race: Earn Credits!
One eye-catching benefit of stackable credentials is the credits you can rake in! Certificates earned can often be added to a degree, right? Of course, degrees still hold the highest value, but many universities are open to students with solid stacks of credentials. And, as you clock up those credits, you'll reach the finish line faster! Many students juggle two to three programs at a time, complete their certificates, and swiftly secure a place in a degree program while chugging along at their day jobs.
New research conducted in California on stackable credential programs suggests that individuals who finished certificates in stackable programs were about 16 percent more likely to garner a second credential[1]. Not only does this help coliessessions boost their enrollment and improve their academic offerings, but it also enhances the program's overall value to students.
Save Your Wallet and Your Life: Save Time & Money
Stackable credentials offer flexibility when it comes to finances, time, and overall commitment. Hung up on that full-time gig and can't afford a lengthy degree program? Stackable courses to the rescue! You can get ahead in your career and hold onto those promotions, all while earning your shiny new certifications.
How does it save you time? Simple! Many certifications count towards degree programs. If you need 12 semesters to bag a degree, you can complete two to four semesters with nifty stackable credential programs. It varies from institution to institution, but it's a game-changer for learners short on time and cash.
Gain More Momentum: Grab More Attention
In today's competitive job market, standing out is crucial, and stackable credentials help you build a stronger resume. Many employers are accepting industry-required certifications, giving these programs even more importance[2]. And the "stacking" concept is gaining traction in industries such as technology, business, engineering, and healthcare[3]. This interest in online badges, especially those touting soft skills like leadership and team-building, is only growing.
Examples of stackable programs
There's a slew of great programs out there, but let's talk about a couple of our faves...
Harvard University's micro-credentials
This Ivy League gem dishes out micro-credentials across various fields, stackable toward professional certifications or degrees. Go ahead, impress the competition with your elite Harvard cred!
CrossFit Trainer Credentials
Looking for an athletic challenge with the opportunity to flex your certification portfolio? Check out CrossFit's four-level stackable program. As you accumulate badges, from level 1 to level 4, you'll become a certified CrossFit coach.
Microsoft Certifications
Leveling up in Excel, Azure, or other technologies? Microsoft offers several stackable programs for deeper specialization. Famed for providing valuable knowledge and certifications, these programs could put you on the fast track to climbing the career ladder.
How Do Credentials Stack Up?
Stackable credentials can be combined in three different ways...
- Vertically: Focusing on incremental knowledge in a single area (like learning Excel, Level 1 to 3).
- Horizontally: Developing skills across multiple areas (such as mastering marketing, data analysis, and project management).
- Hybrid: Merging vertical and horizontal stacking (like achieving high levels in Excel and marketing at the same time).
The versatility of stackable credentials allows learners to personalize their academic journey to match their goals, be it personal or professional.
To Conclude
Stackable credentials are the perfect solution for lifelong learners looking to enhance their skills while juggling work and life. And for young learners unsure of their career path, these programs offer a cost-effective, flexible way to test the waters and stay competitive in a rapidly changing job market[4].
So, now that you've gotten the lowdown on stackable credentials, you can embark on your educational journey with confidence, knowing you're making smart choices along the way[5][6].
In the realm of education-and-self-development, stackable credentials have gained considerable attention, particularly in the context of online-education and learning. These bite-sized learning chunks, such as digital badges, are designed to help learners master specific skills or areas, and can be combined to form a more comprehensive qualification, like a degree.
These flexible learning options offer several advantages, including the opportunity to earn credits that can be added to a degree, saving time and money. Additionally, employers are increasingly recognizing and valuing these industry-required certifications, providing learners with a competitive edge in the job market.
