The Value of Non-Degree Credentials
A recent study from the Strada Center for Education Consumer Insights shows a growing number of people see the value of earning non-degree credentials through programs like bootcamps and online certificate courses.
Nearly half of all working-age adults who have earned a bachelor’s degree have also earned some sort of non-degree credential. Not only are non-degree credentials usually quicker to earn than traditional degree programs, but they can cost less and demonstrate knowledge and skills in real time.
According to research published by Strada in July 2021, 62% of Americans said they would be more likely to choose skills-based training that doesn’t result in a degree if they were to enroll in a program within the next six months.
Through recent years and with the impact of COVID-19, choosing non-degree credential courses, such as those available in an online certificate program, has become an attractive and flexible option as a form of higher education.
What is a non-degree credential?
Non-degree credentials are credentials designed to fulfill a specific purpose in professional or personal development – but do not result in an academic degree like a bachelor’s or master’s degree. These programs can confer academic or industry credentials, and can include for-credit options, like online certificates, as well as non-credit options, like bootcamps.
For-Credit Online Certificates
Here at Ohio State, we offer 20+ academic online certificates from a variety of colleges and departments. For example, the College of Medicine offers an online certificate in health informatics, as well as an assistive technology certificate online. Additionally, the College of Nursing is home to the online nurse educator certificate, online nurse coaching certificate and six other online nursing certificates.
The benefit of earning a for-credit, academic online certificate is that you may be able to apply some of your certificate credits toward a full degree program. Students who earn the online Public Management Certificate from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, for example, may apply up to 50 percent of earned credits toward the online Master of Public Administration and Leadership.
Non-Credit Online Classes and Certificates
Through Ohio State’s ScarletCanvas platform for non-credit learning opportunities, students can gain valuable knowledge that benefits their careers or allows them to earn continuing education units (CEU’s). CEU’s can contribute to licensing requirements for certain fields, like social work or nursing.
Ohio State offers several free, massive open online courses (MOOC) that may inspire you to continue with your formal education through a for-credit online certificate program. MOOCs can be a smart way to “try before you buy.”
For example, the course content in the “Infection Prevention 101 for Public Spaces” MOOC, offered by the College of Education and Human Ecology, is a preview of the content taught in the online Healthcare Environmental and Hospitality Services Certificate – a for-credit, online academic certificate designed to prepare hospitality and healthcare professionals for leadership positions.
Ohio State also offers a non-credit coding certificate that teaches the basics of the Swift programming language. The online certificate courses can be a powerful addition to your current skillset as you will learn how to create apps and interact with app code and developers in the future. Even better: The Swift Coding and App Development Certificate Program is offered free of charge for students, including current online students or alumni.
Similarly, the College of Engineering offers bootcamps in topics such as cybersecurity and UX/UI design that provide specialized training in a shorter time period, but do not grant an academic credential.
How much will a non-degree credential cost?
Because many of these learning opportunities are shorter and require fewer classes than a traditional degree, the cost of tuition for an academic online certificate will be notably lower in price. The specific cost of each individual online certificate program varies, but simple steps can be taken to calculate the cost of your desired program.
The cost for non-credit opportunities like some certificates and bootcamps can range from $0 to $500 or more. In general, courses that offer CEU’s upon completion carry a higher cost.
How can a non-degree credential benefit my career?
Adult learners who combine a college degree with a non-degree credential experience greater quality and value than those with a college degree alone, according to the Strada study.
For someone who is looking for extra training or additional skills without having to seek a full degree, these types of programs can be the fastest and most flexible option for their industry or career. Additionally, non-degree credentials can help students “test the waters” of a program or field before committing to a full degree program.
Are Online Certificates Really Worth It?
No matter where you are in your higher education journey, an online certificate program or other non-degree credential can be beneficial in your career – whether you want to advance to a new position or gain more experience in a specific subject.
Ready to take the next step and enroll in an online certificate program?
Contact us today to begin your journey.