The realm of microcredentials is often likened to a “wild west” in the context of higher education. As the demand for alternative learning pathways grows, the landscape is becoming increasingly complex and diverse.
The Expanding Microcredential Market
With a multitude of program providers emerging, the microcredential market is bustling with activity. These offerings range from certificates and badges to intensive boot camps, catering to various learning needs and timelines. While some programs promise significant returns on investment, others may fall short, lacking proper tracking of their outcomes. This inconsistency has led to a call for greater oversight and quality assurance in the sector.
Accreditors Enter the Scene
In response to the chaotic nature of this market, two accrediting bodies are stepping in to establish order and explore new opportunities. The New England Commission of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission have been investigating short-term programs for several years and are now preparing to evaluate whether these providers meet established standards.
New Recognition Initiatives
This past spring, the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) made a significant decision to endorse noncredit program providers, including both traditional educational institutions and external organizations. This recognition aims to enhance the quality assurance of these programs, providing students with a clearer understanding of which offerings are credible and beneficial.
Meeting Market Demand
NECHE anticipates a strong interest in its recognition process, aiming to start with at least 30 applicants. As noncredit providers compete for students and partnerships with employers, the demand for quality assurance is expected to rise. Laura Gambino, vice president of NECHE, emphasizes that this initiative is crucial for guiding students toward valuable learning experiences.
Higher Learning Commission’s Approach
Simultaneously, the Higher Learning Commission is launching its own endorsement for microcredential providers, particularly those outside traditional higher education. Since 2017, the HLC has been exploring its role in this evolving landscape, culminating in the establishment of a Credential Lab to assist institutions and students in navigating the rapid growth of short-term credentials.
Survey Insights and Institutional Challenges
A recent survey conducted by the HLC revealed that a significant majority of member institutions expect alternative credential offerings to expand. As traditional higher education faces challenges such as declining enrollment and funding issues, institutions are increasingly looking to collaborate with external providers to enhance their offerings and remain competitive.
Importance of Quality Assurance
Experts in accreditation argue that it is essential for accrediting bodies to evaluate alternative credentials to protect students from subpar programs. Nasser H. Paydar, president of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, stresses the importance of validating the quality of these offerings to ensure students receive valuable education.
Adapting Evaluation Standards
Officials from NECHE and HLC are leveraging their extensive experience to redefine quality standards for shorter, more agile credentials. For instance, NECHE’s quality framework emphasizes the need for providers to be responsive to employer demands, a critical factor in the fast-paced job market.
Future Models for Accreditation
As NECHE and HLC pave the way for evaluating microcredential providers, they may serve as models for other accrediting organizations. By embracing the growing trend of nondegree programs, these bodies can reinforce their relevance in a changing educational landscape.
Conclusion: A Growing Market
With the increasing number of alternative credential providers, the market is vast and ripe for exploration. Both NECHE and HLC are optimistic about their roles in this space, recognizing that the demand for quality assurance in microcredentials is only set to grow.