Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Microcredentials and Digital Badging

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Microcredentials

Microcredentials play a pivotal role in facilitating lifelong learning by offering individuals a flexible and targeted approach to acquiring new skills and knowledge. As the professional landscape continues to evolve, microcredentials provide a means for individuals to continually upskill or reskill in response to changing industry demands without the time commitment of a full degree program. This enables professionals to stay abreast of the latest developments in their field, pursue new career opportunities, and adapt to emerging trends, ultimately supporting their ongoing professional growth and contributing to a culture of lifelong learning.
The integration of microcredentials at TTUHSC is aimed at elevating the visibility and marketability of TTUHSC learners, highlighting their knowledge and skill sets. Concurrently, this initiative seeks to foster increased engagement in campus initiatives and career advancement among learners, faculty, staff, alumni, clinicians, preceptors, and university community partners.

Who teaches microcredentials?

Microcredentials are taught by specific programs within TTUHSC. The microcredentials are tailored to be taught online and in the classroom. For a full list of currently available microcredentials or digital badges, visit our microcredential website provider accredible. 

What is a digital badge?

A digital badge is a type of credential issued to candidates for meeting certain criteria. This includes traditional students completing educational courses, employees passing training, individuals signing up for membership or becoming an affiliate of a non-profit or association. Digital badges follow the Open Badge Format and are portable, verifiable, and include detailed context about the represented achievement or affiliation.

How does a microcredential work?

Digital badges are easily shareable, can be added to LinkedIn profiles, embedded on websites, and in email signatures. Encouraging recipients to celebrate their achievements by sharing their digital badge is a great way to increase visibility for the brand and the credential. It also allows recipients to showcase their abilities and professional development for improved employability.

In the pursuit of earning a microcredential/badge, learners may:
• Undergo rigorous training to acquire specialized knowledge and skills
• Engage in hands-on practice of competencies highly valued by employers
• Apply their newly acquired expertise in a real-world work environment
• Receive constructive feedback to enhance their performance and proficiency
• Attain verifiable digital credentials as recognition of their achievement

Offering a Microcredential

Faculty, Staff, and Organizations within TTUHSC can offer badges to help learners engage with their programs to help learners earn distinctions, professional development, and highlight specific skills and competencies.  The first step is to read the Microcredential and Digital Badging Style Guide.  

Once you have reviewed the Microcredential and Digital Badging Style Guide, staff can log into and apply to offer a new microcredential by filling out the application HERE

Key features of the TTUHSC Microcredential:

1. Niche Expertise: Each microcredential is centered around a particular subject or competency within the broader healthcare spectrum. This ensures that participants receive in-depth knowledge and practical skills in a specialized area, allowing them to stand out and excel in their roles.
2. Flexibility: The program is structured to accommodate busy professionals and individuals seeking to upskill without committing to a full degree. It offers a flexible learning experience that can be tailored to fit into participants schedules, often involving online courses and self-paced modules.
3. Practical Focus: The microcredential is designed to provide participants with immediately applicable skills and knowledge. This practical orientation allows individuals to directly apply what they learn to their current roles or projects, making an impact in their workplace.
4. Rigorous Curriculum: Despite the condensed format, the microcredential maintains a high standard of quality in its curriculum. Participants can expect to engage with relevant and up-to-date content, presented by experienced educators and professionals.
5. Credential Recognition: Upon successful completion of the microcredential program, participants are awarded a digital credential that can be showcased on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and other professional platforms. This recognition demonstrates their commitment to continuous learning and specialization in a particular healthcare field.
6. Networking Opportunities: The program often provides opportunities for participants to connect with peers, instructors, and industry experts. These networking interactions can lead to valuable connections and collaborations within the healthcare community.
7. Career Advancement: Whether participants are seeking to enhance their current roles, transition to a new area within healthcare, or take on more responsibilities, the microcredential can serve as a stepping stone toward career advancement and increased earning potential.