If you’re looking to increase your job prospects or are really wanting a promotion at work (but aren’t yet qualified) you may have thought about going back to college to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in that field. That’s probably a great idea.
But while getting a bachelor’s degree, or even an advanced degree would very likely give you more options in the job market, do you really have to spend four, maybe six years in college?
Well, depending on what you (and your employer) are looking for in your current career, or what field you’re considering getting into, you might not have to.
You see, there are now a wide array of professional certificate programs, micro degrees, and micro credentials you can earn, online, from accredited colleges that could help further your career relatively quickly. That’s even if you already have a bachelor’s or masters… or you’ve never spent a moment in college at all!
Unlike traditional four year programs, online professional certifications and micro degree programs offered by accredited colleges allow for a great education that’s singularly focused on a particular skill…
They don’t take years to complete…
And are generally more economical than going to college full time.
Now, School Match Pro has partnered with accredited institutions nationwide that offer online certification and micro degree programs. In a moment, we’ll show you how to find a school (and program) that best fits what you’re looking for.
But first, is earning a professional certification or micro degree even worth it?
Well, according to an interview in Success, Jamie Saxe, the founder of Mend Consulting said she believes earning online certificates can be an integral component of today’s business environment.
She said, “…the demand for evolving skill sets within the workplace, online certifications can assist employee education needed to operate within today’s fast-changing business community.
“They can give employees and contractors the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, remotely or on-the-fly, while also shaping the future of a dynamic workplace.”[1]
And what about micro degrees/micro credentials?
According to Human Resources Director (an online publication for HR professionals), “Industry micro-credentials are emerging as the latest hiring preference for many employers across the world as they begin leaning into skills-based hiring…”[2]
Or, more simply put, people who earn professional online certifications and micro degrees may be more valuable to their current or future employers than people who don’t.
So, is earning a professional certification or micro degree worth it?
If you want:
Flexibility: These programs can often be completed online and part-time, making them ideal for individuals balancing work, family, and education.
Affordability: Micro degrees and micro credentials are typically more affordable than traditional degree programs, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals.
Quick Skill Acquisition: These programs offer a focused and efficient way to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to advance in a particular career.
And…
Professional Development: Pursuing micro degrees and micro credentials can enable individuals to keep pace with current industry developments and gain knowledge of best practices, enhancing their competitiveness in the job market.
Then yes.
Earning your professional certification or micro credentials could very well be worth it!
But where do you go? How do you start, and which certifications or credentials are best for you?
Well, we’ve got you covered. SchoolMatchPro.com can help you answer these and other important questions. Questions that could have a serious impact not only on your career, but on your lifestyle and earnings potential.
Here’s what to do: Simply visit our homepage and click on “Begin Your Search Now” and School Match Pro can help get you what you’re truly looking for.
[1] Are Online Professional Certificate Programs Useful? | SUCCESS
School Match Pro is an educational consumer information source connecting students with programs, we do not provide direct educational services. School Match Pro is not responsible for education program content or for third party referral sources directed to School Match Pro or related pages. Educational program options vary. Programs may not be accelerated, available in all locations, or available both online and at on-campus locations. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify including grants, scholarships, and other programs. Financial aid and grants are provided directly to educational programs, not to students, unless otherwise noted. To receive financial aid and grants students must submit applications and be accepted to educational programs for which aid will be used. Employment is not implied nor guaranteed, and each program length and curriculum will vary based on the institution you select. School Match Pro offers information, ratings, and recommendations of colleges and universities at no cost to the consumer. School Match Pro receives referral, promotional, and/or advertising revenue from some of the schools that we review.
