In an era defined by advancing technology and evolving job markets, the power of micro-credentials has become a force in higher education. These bite-sized, targeted qualifications give students the opportunity to prove their skillsets and legitimize themselves in their career fields, all while working toward their degrees.
While traditional degrees require a more extensive commitment, micro-credentials are smaller, more specialized, online qualifications people can earn to showcase their skills in specific areas. In Moraine Park Technical College’s Computer Literacy course, students develop basic computer skills and earn several micro-credential certifications, including the LinkedIn Learning Microsoft Word 365 Essentials, Microsoft Excel 365 Essentials and Microsoft PowerPoint 365 Essentials. These certifications provide evidence of students’ proficiency from which they can further develop interests and skills.
“At Moraine Park, we see that employers value lifelong learning and agility,” Stephanie Murre-Wolf, Business Technology and Software Applications instructor at Moraine Park, said. “In Computer Literacy and other application courses, students earn micro-credentials and learn to use various artificial intelligence (AI) tools to become more efficient and effective in their roles. Acquiring these credentials also builds up the students’ resumes and makes them more desirable job candidates.”
Adam Hoogervorst, a first-year student in MPTC’s Graphic Design program, completed LinkedIn micro-credentials as part of his course work in Computer Literacy. Having never used LinkedIn before starting at Moraine Park, Hoogervorst was eager to build up his professional resume and highlight his proficiency.
Soon after building up his profile, he began qualifying for “Easy Apply” applications for internships in his career field. One company was Elkay Interior Systems in Milwaukee, a global leader in commercial design and manufacturing services—a dream opportunity for a young graphic design student.
Within 30 minutes of applying, Elkay responded to Hoogervorst’s application. After a few rounds of interviews, he was offered the internship and eagerly accepted–a testament to the powerful impact of micro-credentials in opening doors to professional opportunities.
“At my internship, I assisted the marketing team with designing graphics, creating presentations and more,” Hoogervorst said. “In one of my projects, I designed a presentation for Elkay, overviewing their partnership with Starbucks. It has been surreal to be working for a company like Elkay, especially since last year I was going to homecoming.”
Hoogervorst’s internship with Elkay ended in late 2023, and he recently accepted a second internship with Secura Insurance in Neenah, where he will assist their marketing team with photography and videography needs. He hopes to use his associate degree from Moraine Park to open his own business.
“At Moraine Park, our goal is to prepare students to be upwardly mobile and ready to advance in their career as opportunities become available,” Murre-Wolf said. “So, whether their role is analyzing data, summarizing email content, creating engaging presentations or writing interesting content, in Computer Literacy, students learn to use the tools available to perform their future jobs well. Adam’s story serves as a great example of how these targeted qualifications can propel individuals toward their career aspirations, providing a bridge between education and real-world success.”
For more information, visit morainepark.edu/graphic-design.