Do you need a competitive edge to get ahead in your career? For some, going back to school to complete a degree program just is not an option. If you are looking to upskill or learn something new without committing to a degree program, consider earning a micro-certificate.
What Are Micro-Certificates?
Taking just a short time to complete, micro-certificates can help you build your skills and add an eye-catching line to your resume. These short degree programs are affordable and designed to give you a focused study in one specific area or industry.
Benefits of Choosing a Micro-Certificate
Earning a micro-certificate is a great way to enhance your resume and set yourself apart from the crowd. Here are five benefits of earning a micro-certificate online at Johnson & Wales University.
1. It can help you fast-track a new credential.
These programs are designed to help professionals build new skills without the time and commitment required for a full degree or certificate program. At Johnson & Wales University, it typically takes six months or less to complete a micro-certificate program. Full certificates can take a year or longer, and a degree takes a minimum of two years. Micro-certificates are ideal for those who need some professional development hours or wish to add a skill or two, but don’t need a full credential.
2. You can use your program to fill skill gaps.
With technology constantly changing and regulations updating regularly, many professionals find themselves missing key skills that can propel them toward better positions and opportunities. Micro-certificates can help fill these gaps in a more affordable way. Whether it’s a new computer skill you need to learn or an aspect of the field that you lack an understanding of, micro-certificates provide an option to grab those skills in just a few months. As an added bonus, upskilling and adding these credentials to your resume can give you a competitive edge when seeking to advance within your field.
3. Micro-certificates can provide you with industry-relevant professional growth opportunities.
Micro-credentials provide real-world experience in a short, manageable amount of time. The primary focus of these programs is on delivering a particular skill or knowledge set, and that is done experientially whenever possible. And, since many fields require their professionals to earn professional development credits, a micro-certificate is a great way to learn something new while fulfilling that requirement.
4. You’ll earn a head-start on a degree program.
Micro-certificates stand on their own but, in many cases, they can also be applied toward a degree program. Students who are interested in eventually pursuing a degree or a full certificate can use micro-certificates as a starting point. At JWU, all micro-certificate programs are applicable to a full degree program, if you wish to continue your studies.
5. It can showcase your willingness to learn and grow.
When a job-seeker presents a resume to a potential employer, it usually shows a long list of past and current employers. Unfortunately, this doesn’t demonstrate a love of learning or a willingness to stay up-to-date with the industry. Micro-credentials can show that. They give a record of capabilities as well as proof that the applicant has a desire and ability to learn and grow. This can be particularly valuable if a resume does not have a lot of employer variety to showcase.
If you are looking for a competitive edge on your resume or if you need reskilling or professional development, consider earning a micro-certificate with JWU. For more information, view the undergraduate and graduate micro-certificates JWU offers, complete the Request Info form, call 855-JWU-1881, or email [email protected].