FAQs - Micro-credentials

Learners receive a secure digital badge. If required, a traditional certificate can also be issued. 

Each micro-credential clearly outlines: 

• Learning outcomes 

• Skills and knowledge acquired 

• Target learners 

• Mode of delivery 

• Duration 

• Progression opportunities 

Open Awards micro-credentials are designed to ensure: 

• Currency – aligned to current professional standards 

• Validity – assessment matches learning outcomes 

• Authenticity – verified learner achievement 

• Reliability – consistent assessment decisions 

• Transparency – clear information about outcomes and progression 

They are formally accredited certifications recognising achievement in clearly defined skills or knowledge areas. They are: 

• Focused on specific competencies 

• Defined through structured learning outcomes 

• Quality assured up-front 

• Supported by clear assessment and verification processes 

• Designed to meet current industry needs 

Yes. Practical, hands-on courses are often an excellent fit for micro-credentials, as long as the provider can clearly define: 

• what competence looks like 

• how it will be assessed 

• how achievement will be verified 

No fixed timeframe applies universally, but providers must clearly state the expected duration of delivery. Micro-credentials are typically short and agile programmes, often delivered over a period of weeks or a few months. 

Yes. Providers delivering internationally must demonstrate appropriate controls for international delivery, including staffing, assessment integrity, student support, and quality assurance arrangements. 

Potentially, yes. If a course is intended to be delivered in multiple ways (for example, both classroom-based and distance learning), the provider must show that: 

• learning outcomes remain consistent 

• delivery and assessment remains valid and reliable across formats 

• quality assurance processes apply equally to all modes of delivery 

Yes. The mode(s) of delivery must be clearly stated in the micro-credential accreditation application (e.g., face-to-face, blended, online/distance).  

Yes. Open Awards micro-credentials can be delivered via distance/online learning, as long as the provider can demonstrate robust arrangements for: 

• learner engagement and support 

• authentication of learner work 

• internal quality assurance