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 nursing in school health services 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 all earned credits toward the online Master of Public Administration and Leadership or the Master of Public Administration.

Non-Credit Online Classes and Certificates

Ohio State offers a range of non-credit learning opportunities that provide valuable knowledge to advance careers, gain new skills, or fulfill continuing education unit (CEU) requirements. CEUs can be essential for licensing in certain fields, like social work or nursing.

Through Ohio State’s Professional and Continuing Education (PCE) platform, students can explore flexible online options, including tech certifications and courses tailored for professional development.

For example, the DevOps Foundation (DOFD®), ITIL® 4 Foundation, and Scrum Master Certified (SMC®) programs provide entry-level IT professionals, help desk staff, career-changers, and job-seekers with the foundational skills needed to advance in technology-driven careers. These certifications are industry-recognized and designed to help professionals break into IT or grow within their current roles.

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, previews content from the Healthcare Environmental and Hospitality Services Certificate – a for-credit, online academic certificate designed to prepare hospitality and healthcare professionals aspiring to leadership roles.

Short-term, non-credit bootcamps in fields like cybersecurity and UX/UI design, offered through the College of Engineering, are also available for professionals seeking targeted training without pursuing 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 $1,000 or more. In general, courses that offer CEUs 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.

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.