Are Microcredentials Worth It?

Nowadays, there are many affordable online colleges to choose from, but microcredentials offer an even cheaper, quicker option. These programs promise to help career climbers and lifelong learners build skills without breaking the bank.

People who complete microcredentials tend to agree that they learned something new and reached a career goal. However, many learners who pay out of pocket say these programs are too expensive.

In this report, we’ll break down the potential costs and benefits of microcredentials to help you better understand your education and career options.

In 2023, research organization EdResearcher surveyed over 25,000 learners pursuing an EdX MicroMaster or Coursera specialization. They found the average cost of a MicroMaster was around $1,500 — up 60% from three years ago.^{Note Reference [2]} MicroMasters ranged in cost from about $200-$4,700.

Most EdX MicroMaster programs had the added benefit of being stackable toward a full master’s degree. About 60% of MicroMasters in the researchers’ study could count toward 9-12 credits of a master’s degree, which is typically 30-36 credits in total.^{Note Reference [2]}

Coursera charges students $49-$79 per month for specializations, so your cost depends on how long it takes you to complete the program. These specializations, however, don’t necessarily stack toward a degree.

Some learners received some financial help to pay for their MicroMasters.^{Note Reference [2]}

Of course, there’s a time cost too. Researchers in the study found that on average, MicroMasters completers spent over 400 hours in their programs, on average. They calculated an average opportunity cost of $11,700 in potential earnings.^{Note Reference [2]}

For what it’s worth, most employers claim they offer employees cost incentives to pursue skills or certifications. In a 2023 survey by the online and professional education organization UPCEA:^{Note Reference [3]}

In a 2023 IBM and Morning Consult report, most learners who earned a digital credential said these credentials were somewhat or very helpful in achieving career goals.

However, 60% of those polled also said these programs were too expensive.^{Note Reference [1]}

The EdResearcher study asked program completers more specifically about their expectations and if those expectations were met.

However, while only 28% of learners entered their program expecting to learn something new, nearly all reported this outcome. Additionally, 15% of completers said their program helped improve their application for their first job.

The bottom line: If you’re considering enrolling in a microcredential or digital badge program, think realistically about the goals you hope to achieve. Also, try to get financial aid from your employer or the microcredential provider.

According to UPCEA, hiring professionals see additional benefits for employees and candidates who complete microcredentials.^{Note Reference [3]}

Additionally, in a 2022 SHRM report, more than 8 in 10 executives, supervisors, and HR professionals said alternative credentials offer employees greater credibility. The majority of executives (70%) and supervisors (53%) also agreed that employees with alternative credentials are better performers.^{Note Reference [4]}

Still, executives, supervisors, and HR pros agreed that when comparing alternative credentials to experience and degrees, experience trumps everything.

You can find microcredentials on many massive open online course (MOOC) platforms, including Coursera, EdX, LinkedIn, and Udacity. In addition, many large employers and universities partner with these MOOC providers to offer microcredentials.

If you’re interested in earning microcredentials or digital badges and you’re currently employed, start by asking your employer for information. Your company might already partner with a school or credentialing organization. They might even subsidize the cost of your microcredential if it relates to your role.

You can also find microcredentials at community colleges, state universities, or private colleges. For example, Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business recently launched a financial technology microcredential program. Meanwhile, the University of Texas System has partnered with Coursera to offer over 35 microcredentials for in-demand fields.

These days, many companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) — software that reads and sorts job candidates’ resumes in the hiring process. However, most companies’ systems don’t recognize microcredentials like they do traditional degrees and work experience.

In fact, just under one-third of HR professionals (32%) whose companies use an ATS say their system can screen for alternative credentials, according to the 2022 SHRM report.^{Note Reference [4]}

If you’re thinking of earning microcredentials to increase your hireability, be prepared to explain your credentials and digital badges — and their value — in your cover letter and interviews.