New research from the National Skills Coalition defines high-quality non-degree credentials and outlines the criteria that states should adopt for their quality assurance systems.
The paper, Expanding Opportunities: Defining Quality Non-Degree Credentials for States, defines a high-quality non-degree credential as one that “provides individuals with the means to equitably achieve their informed employment and educational goals.”
Related content: Why are non-degree credentials necessary?
Non-degree credentials–such as certificates awarded by an education institution, apprenticeship certificates earned through work-based learning, industry certifications awarded by a certification body (not a school or government agency), and occupational licenses awarded by a government licensing agency–help workers get better jobs while also reconnecting them to further postsecondary education and training opportunities.
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