In an increasingly skills-driven job market, Iowa State University is leading the way with an innovative approach to helping students showcase what they know and can do, micro-credentials.
Micro-credentials are short, focused learning experiences that allow students to build and demonstrate specific skills valued by employers. Unlike traditional academic courses, which can take a semester or more to complete, micro-credentials are more flexible and targeted, often completed in days or weeks.
According to Tanya Austin, Professional Learning and Micro Credentials program specialists, the initiative is part of a broader effort to align learning experiences with real-world demands.
“Our initiative is an innovative, student-centered effort to recognize and verify what students know and can do, helping them stay competitive as the world of work continues to evolve,” Austin said.
Austin also describes her role as guiding the strategy, vision and quality of Iowa State’s micro-credentials initiative and working with faculty, staff and employers to create coordinated and consistent offerings across campus
Since launching in October, Iowa State’s micro-credential program has expanded, now offering more than 80 credentials across multiple colleges, according to Iowa State.
Some of the leading programs include the CALS Pathways to Innovation and Leadership in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the Gerdin Leaders Academy in the Ivy College of Business and several offerings through the Graduate College.
Micro-credentials are also available to working professionals through Iowa State’s Transitional AI Center, Extension and Outreach and CIRAS, providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling.
Each completed micro-credential earns students a verified ISU-branded digital badge, displayed through the university’s Accredible platform. The badges include detailed information about the skills and competencies earned and can be added to LinkedIn profiles, résumés or digital portfolios.
“Because the learner has ownership of their wallet, badges are completely portable, allowing them to access and share their skills even beyond their time at ISU,” Austin said.
The micro-credential movement has been met with enthusiasm from both students and faculty. Since its launch, nearly 600 badges have been awarded, with more issued each semester.
“Students love being recognized for the skills and experiences they’re building beyond the classroom,” Austin said. “Faculty are becoming strong supporters as they see how micro-credentials help students connect their learning to real-world opportunities and career goals.”
One of Iowa State’s programs is the CALS Pathway to Innovation and Leadership, which helps students build leadership, innovation and career-readiness skills through workshops, mentoring and hands-on experiences.
Amy Mendee, assistant director for Pathways and Innovation Programs, said the program combines personalized planning tools, workshops and reflective learning to help students translate experiences into professional strengths.
“The program helps students practice, communicate and reflect on their innovation and leadership skill development,” Mendee said. “As they complete activities, they earn stackable digital badges that showcase their skills and experiences.”
Pathways currently offers 26 micro-credential opportunities, focusing on skills such as leadership, innovation, problem-solving, professionalism and collaboration. Students earn credentials through high-impact experiences like research, entrepreneurship, study abroad and internships.
Mendee said a recent survey found that 85% of employers look for candidates who have both a degree and micro-credentials.
“Micro-credentials give students a competitive edge by highlighting their skills in ways that stand out to employers and graduate schools,” Mendee said.
For Katrina Hageman, a junior in agricultural communication, the Pathways program has been transformative.
“LinkedIn is a tool I highly value as a college student,” Hageman said. “Gaining digital badges to display on my LinkedIn profile and résumé motivated me to pursue the Pathways workshops.”
Hageman said the experience has helped her identify her strengths and improve her leadership and creativity.
“Digital badges are a great opportunity for Iowa State students to explore different avenues to build career-readiness skills,” Hageman said. “It’s not just a badge, it’s the work you put into earning it that stands out.”
Austin said micro-credentials will continue to expand across the university as employers increasingly shift toward skills-based hiring.
“Micro-credentials don’t replace coursework; they complement it,” Austin said. “They give students another way to demonstrate the depth and value of their learning at Iowa State.”
To learn more about micro credentials at Iowa State, click here.
