Thousands of students have enrolled in University of Southern Queensland microcredentials as the industry-relevant short courses continue to gain in popularity.
The University is currently offering 24 microcredentials across a wide variety of fields. That number will expand to 30 in early 2024, with new micro courses to focus on sustainability in business, special education, and dementia care.
Microcredentials are short, focused courses providing learners with specific skills and expertise currently in demand by employers.
Ross Muir has completed three cyber-focused microcredentials at the University of Southern Queensland to advance his career in criminal intelligence.
“With the reporting of cybercrime on the increase, these courses greatly assisted me in obtaining a broader understanding of both the cyber threat and security options to combat these threats,” Mr Muir said.
“I applied learnings from the courses directly to my role as a Senior Intelligence Analyst, which has assisted in the outcomes of numerous criminal investigations.
“The courses were well structured with a balance of theory and practical application. Many profound and interesting real-life case studies were used throughout the courses and the assignments allowed students to undertake university standard research.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said microcredentials played a vital role in upskilling and reskilling professionals to ready them for the changing nature of jobs.
“What is most important about University of Southern Queensland’s microcredentials is that they are co-designed with industry to meet industry needs,” Professor Mackenzie said.
“The collaborative approach to development and delivery with industry accelerates workforce development while improving access to higher education for people in the workforce.”
Provost Professor Karen Nelson said microcredentials were creating a new era in lifelong learning.
“Microcredentials have empowered workers to customise their learning and increase their employability,” Professor Nelson said.
“Microcredentials have become an essential component of universities.
“University of Southern Queensland offers microcredentials in the key areas of business, management, and leadership, but also in areas where there are industry shortages including education and health.”
Find out more about University of Southern Queensland’s microcredentials at UniSQ UpSkill.
