Iowa State University is currently piloting micro-credentials and digital badges to offer enhanced and innovative learning opportunities. The program will be a resource for badge strategy, design, delivery. If you have interest in unlocking new opportunities with micro-credentials, contact Tanya Austin, tjaustin@iastate.edu.

What is a Micro-credential?

A micro-credential is a short, focused program that allows you to gain and showcase specific skills or knowledge through various learning experiences. Unlike traditional courses, micro-credentials are shorter and more narrowly focused. Upon completion, you earn a digital badge that validates your achievement—perfect for sharing with employers who are seeking candidates with in-demand skills.

Why Earn a Micro-Credential?

Whether you’re a student or a professional, micro-credentials offer many benefits:

What is a Digital Badge?

At the successful completion of a micro-credential program, you receive a digital badge signifying the skills you’ve acquired. Embedded with metadata, each includes detailed information about the program, its requirements, and your accomplishments.

Digital badges are portable and verifiable, meaning you can easily share them on social media platforms, add them to your resume, or include them in job applications.

Having the chance for Micro-Credentials from ISU has been a high value career development option for our employees and is something we look for in differentiation in the hiring of new graduates.

Ashtyn Zinn, Director of Technical Services and Material Sciences