Micro-Credentials

The University of Maine System invites all students to participate in Education Design Lab‘s BadgedToHire initiative. The global economy is changing—badges earned from these free and self-paced courses prove to employers that you have the skills they are looking for.

 

What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential is a verified credential earned when learners demonstrate what they know and are able to do related to a specific area of study. They show their understanding through evidence and application. Micro-credentials are made up of stacked digital badges along a pathway that highlight the skills needed to be successful.

What are UMS micro-credentials?

Each UMS micro-credential is designed to take a learner from foundational knowledge and rigorous training, to application in a real-world work-setting. You can earn three levels of badges taking you from foundational learning to application of that learning. When you earn the final stacked macro-badge in your pathway you have earned the UMS micro-credential.

Why should I earn an UMS micro-credential?

86% of hiring managers indicate that it is “very important” that recent graduates demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world settings and only 39% think recent graduates are well-prepared to apply skills in real-world settings. Hart Research Associates. Fulfilling the American Dream: Liberal Education and the Future of Work (Washington, D.C.: AAC&U, 2018)

  • Obtain a valued UMS credential
  • Makes your competencies visible, beyond what is seen on a transcript or resume
  • Demonstrate skills in real-world settings
  • Upskill for greater marketability
  • Gain work experience and received valuable performance feedback
  • Differentiate yourself and stand out to employers
  • Better articulate the skills you developed to potential employers
  • Enhances your digital identity
  • Share your badges and be recognized!

All badges can be shared on social media and professional sites, such as LinkedIn as well as on your website, e-portfolio or resume!

UMS Career Prepared Learning Pathway

Pathway Badges Career Prepared

Explore the possibilities.

This micro-credential pathway is designed to help you develop your career goals and build career-related skills. Your pathway is completely personalized based on what you articulate in your career action plan.

There are three levels to earning the full micro-credential (click on each icon for more information):

Pathway Badges Career PreparedPathway Badges Career PreparedPathway Badges Career Prepared

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

  • Current UMaine Machias Student
  • Has completed ENG 101 (or is currently enrolled)

THE BENEFITS

  • Identify your values, interests and transferable skills
  • Create a personalized career action plan
  • Participate in career exploration activities outlined in your personalized plan
  • Earn a 21st Century Skill Badge along the way (see below)
  • Gain experience and contacts in your field of interest!

COST & DELIVERY MODE

  • This micro-credential is completely FREE and self-paced!

HOW DO I START?

To begin Level 1 of the UMS Career Pathway, please contact:

Click here to learn more and to sign up!