Coursera Career Academy

Coursera is a leading online learning platform that partners with top universities and companies worldwide to offer courses, specializations, and professional certificates. The School of Professional Studies, The Career Center, and the College of Computing & Informatics has partnered together to provide our students, faculty, and staff with free access to industry-recognized Professional Certificates. This partnership enhances our educational offerings and helps prepare you for the evolving job market.

What’s cool about the micro-credential program is the digital badges you will receive that can easily be marketed in your LinkedIn profile, demonstrated on your resume, or your eportfolio. Micro-credentials are a great way to prove to an employer the knowledge and depth of experience with very specific skillsets and experiences that help showcase your expertise. These can help set you apart from the rest of the talent pool!

The main difference between a micro-credential and a certificate, minor, or major is simply the length of time it takes to complete the experience. Additionally, micro-credentials are not tied to specific curricular programs and therefore do not apply towards your normal 120 credit hours needed to graduate with an undergraduate degree.

When deciding on whether to do a micro-credential, certificate program, or a minor you should always consider your end goal. Take stock as to what skills and experiences employers are demanding from talent, what are some of the upcoming skillsets of the future, and what time you have available to complete these micro-credentials.

To participate in Coursera courses, you'll need:

• A computer or mobile device (smartphone or tablet)
• Reliable internet connection
• Up-to-date web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge recommended)
• Ability to view PDF files
• Audio output capability (speakers or headphones)
• For some courses, specific software may be required (usually free or provided)

Most courses are accessible on mobile devices, but a computer is recommended for the best experience, especially for completing assignments and projects. Always check the specific course requirements before starting, as some may have additional technical needs.

To choose the most relevant certificates:

• Review the full list of available certificates
• Consider your major and career aspirations
• Look for certificates that align with your field of study or desired career path
• Explore certificates that offer skills complementary to your major
• Consult with your academic advisor or the Career Center for guidance
• Read the course descriptions and learning outcomes for certificates of interest
• Consider trying a course that introduces you to a new field you're curious about

The time to complete a certificate program varies depending on the specific certificate and your personal pace. However:

• Most Coursera Career Certificates are designed to be completed in 3-6 months
• This estimate assumes about 10 hours of study per week
• Some students complete programs faster by dedicating more time
• You can take longer if needed, as there are no strict deadlines
• Each certificate page on Coursera provides an estimated completion time
• Your actual completion time may vary based on your prior knowledge and study habits

Your new micro-credential can be listed under education, "other professional skills", or "training and certifications".  Make sure to spell out the entire credential title.

On LinkedIn, these micro-credentials can be added as a badge and linked to provide verification of completion.  Potential employers viewing your profile will be able to learn more about this badge and the requirements and outcomes from the skill development more indepth.