Explore degree alternatives

Adult learners must leave programs able to articulate and demonstrate the skills gained, especially if students completed non-degree credentials since most employers don’t understand what alternative credentials convey. Memorial University found that employers were more likely to interview students who discuss coursework in terms of competencies than subject matter or academic field.

Non-degree credentials receive different names, but most ultimately provide the same value: fast and focused education and training. Adult learners must leave programs able to articulate and demonstrate the skills gained by non-degree programs, as most employers don’t understand what alternative credentials convey. Skill development matters to these adult learners and their employers, not the item recognizing it.

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This resource is part of the Design Credentials to Meet Adult Student Needs Roadmap. Access the Roadmap for stepwise guidance with additional tools and research.

ProgramDefinitionDurationBadgeAn entirely digital credential signaling mastery of a single skill. Badges more easily communicate their value when tied to concrete skills (e.g., website design).There is no set length for a badge, given the wide variety of badges and organizations offering them. Bootcamp An intensive set of sessions designed to confer in-depth knowledge quickly. Most bootcamps are technology focused (e.g., coding), though they can also teach subjects like leadership and business. Usually 1 to 2 weeks, can be up to 12 weeks for bootcamps that include a large amount of content.Certificate A set of courses on a particular topic (usually between 3 and 10 courses). Certificates can “stack” into related degrees, meaning completed coursework transfers into degree requirements. This is most common for graduate course certificates, which then stack into a master’s degree. There is no set length for a certificate, though most can be completed in under a year.MicroMasters A series of…