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
- Leading Self: This track is open to all employees who desire to grow both personally and professionally. Course Requirements and more information
- Learning to Lead: This track is designed for the relatively new supervisor/manager with 2 years or less experience in their role here at Upstate. Course Requirements and more information
- Learning to Lead for Nurse Manager Succession: This program is designed for RNs who are interested in becoming a Nurse Manager someday, as it will teach the keys to success as a supervisor/manager as well as the many fundamentals of managing a team. Course Requirements and more information
- Leading Others: This track is designed for more experienced supervisors/managers having between 2 - 5 years of experience in their current role here at Upstate. Course Requirements and more information
Attend an upcoming information session or listen to a pre-recorded session or email: micropdl@upstate.edu
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