What is a Microcredential?
At the most basic level, Microcredentials verify, validate, and attest that specific skills and/or competencies have been achieved. They differ from traditional degrees and certificates in that they are generally offered in shorter or more flexible timespans and tend to be more narrowly focused. They can be online, in the classroom, or via a hybrid of both.
Upstate has accepted and adapted SUNY’s defined Microcredentials and Guiding principles:
- Competency-based, reflecting skills and competencies mastered;
- Meaningful and of high quality, with learning standards, assessments, and clear documentation of skills mastered that have meaning beyond one classroom, one program or the institution.
- Endorsed by the Chief Academic Officer and issuing institution as a whole;
- Developed through local faculty governance processes; ensuring academic quality
- Aligned with campus mission and strategic goals, as well as industry/sector standards, as applicable
- Designed to support entry and completion of students through the university’s traditional educational programs and to be portable and stackable
Source: SUNY and Upstate Medical University Department of Academic Affairs:
What Do I Get?
A digital badge to show off your new skills to use on your LinkedIn profile, resume, internal applications, signature lines, and more!
Find Your Microcredential Track
Timeframe to Complete Your Microcredential Track
All requirements to obtain a microcredential must be completed within 18 months from submission of Intent to Complete form.
A complete listing of available academic and professional development microcredentials can be found here: Microcredentials | Academic Affairs | SUNY Upstate Medical University