Unicorn University introduces microcertificates, a new era of education begins
Unicorn University will be one of the first private colleges to offer so-called microcertificates starting September 23. They will offer learners the opportunity to complete a qualified degree without having to study a specific degree programme at the university. It's a faster and more convenient way to upskill and become more attractive to employers.
A micro-certificate is primarily an electronic record that contains information about its holder, the awarding entity, e.g. a university, and information about an independent educational activity. This means information about the learning outcome, volume of work, level, type of assessment or form of participation. Thus, by obtaining a microcertificate, the learner proves the acquired competence, what was studied and how challenging the study was.
The main advantage of micro-certificates for learners is that they are short-term programmes, where they will be able to obtain a certificate of completion and employers can then recognise them as evidence of the acquisition of specific skills. Courses have extensive online learning support, and for some, the college offers full online study. The microcertificates allow for flexible learning and the learner can plan everything around their time, so that they can fit their studies around work or family life, for example.
"Our university supports modern forms of education, and we are therefore aware that microcertificates represent another step forward for learners. Thanks to them, students can develop skills in specific areas, which will ultimately make them even more valuable on the job market," explains the main advantages of this study, the Rector of Unicorn University, Prof. Ing. Jan Čadil, Ph.D.
Flexibility of study mode
Each microcertificate has one guarantor. This is either an academic member of the faculty or a practitioner with a relevant qualification. This is a natural solution for people who need to make themselves more attractive to employers in a dynamic labour market, for example, but who cannot simultaneously enrol in a standard study programme.
"Unicorn University will offer microcertificates in Data Science, Business Management, IT and Artificial Intelligence. Specifically, I can mention, for example, Fundamentals of Python Programming, Python and Machine Learning, Data Analysis and Visualization, Energy, Data and Transmission IT Environment, Fundamentals of Business and Effective Management," adds Unicorn University Rector Prof. Ing. Jan Čadil, Ph.D.
The whole process is not only about the learner completing the course, but also about verifying their new knowledge. At the same time, the holder of the microcertificate can apply his/her studies if he/she eventually enters a standard study programme. The credits or courses he/she has taken are recognised and the study is thus simply shortened proportionally.
ECTS credit system
The recommended study load for one microcertificate is 2-15 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), with a maximum of 60 ECTS. The credit marking is determined according to the formula whereby 25 hours of study load corresponds to 1 ECTS. This abbreviation stands for the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. It is a tool used in the European Higher Education Area to make studies and courses more transparent.
This system also helps, for example, students to learn in different countries, as they can have their academic qualifications and study time completed abroad recognised. Thanks to the ECTS credit system, credits earned at one university can be counted towards a programme studied at another university.
- Transparency: it is measurable, comparable, verifiable and understandable.
- Portability: It can be digitally stored, preserved and shared.
- Cumulative: Individual micro-certificates can be stacked into larger units.
- Recognisability: The learning evidenced by a microcertificate can be recognised in the context of studying an accredited programme of study.
