What are Digital Credentials?
A digital credential (non-credit) (in the form of either a micro-credential or completion-based learning) recognizes learning achievements over a short period of time and is represented by an electronic visual representation (called a Digital Open Badge). Specifically,
- micro-credentials recognize evaluation of competencies, and
- completion-based learning recognizes completion of and participation in activities and experiences.
The Digital Open Badge includes a title and description of the learning and experiences to detail what the learner has demonstrated or completed (i.e., the acquired skills, education, and accomplishments) and is able to do as a result.
What are the benefits of KPU Digital Credentials?
- Recognize your learning achievements in a short period of time (usually within a semester or academic year)
- Helps build your skills profile for career growth, and as often aligned with specific industry need
- Portable and shareable across digital platforms, including LinkedIn, X, and Facebook
- Accessible and shareable anytime, verified, and secure
Variety of Digital Credentials at KPU
KPU offers micro-credentials and completion-based learning digital credentials. Digital credentials can be categorized in two ways: by the credential type and by the provider and audience.
Digital Credentials by Type
There are two types of digital credentials available at KPU. Micro-Credentials and Completion-based Learning digital credentials.
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
Micro-credentials are competency-based digital credentials that require assessments to be evaluated. Learners must demonstrate achievement of specific knowledge, skills, or attitudes (KSAs) required of the competencies for the micro-credential. They provide verified (as evaluated) evidence of competency attainment and are particularly valuable to employers seeking proof of specific capabilities over simple completion.
Completion-Based Learning
Completion-based learning digital credentials recognize participation in and completion of a learning experience. Unlike micro-credentials, they do not evaluate or verify achievement of specific competencies. Learners earn this digital credential after completing required learning activities and providing evidence of completion.
Digital Credentials by Provider and Audience
Digital Credentials Offered through Academic Programs and Student Development Initiatives
These digital credentials are offered through KPU's credit-bearing academic courses and programs or KPU service departments that directly support KPU students. They are developed and awarded by KPU faculties and departments and are available exclusively to students enrolled in KPU academic programs. Learners earn these additional digital credentials concurrently as part of their academic studies while meeting course or program requirements.
Digital Credentials Offered by Continuing & Professional Studies (CPS)
These digital credentials are offered through KPU's Continuing & Professional Studies (CPS) department. They are available to a broader audience, including current KPU students seeking learning opportunities outside their academic programs, as well as external learners from industry, community organizations, and the public. These digital credentials are the CPS course themselves, rather than a component of an existing course.
Digital Credentials Offered to KPU Employees
These digital credentials are internal offerings, designed specifically for KPU employees, and are offered by KPU service departments to recognize workplace learning, professional development, and institutional training.
Available Digital Credentials at KPU
Academic and Career Preparation
Centre for Educational Transformation
Arts
Introduction to Concepts in Applied Behaviour Analysis in K-12 Schools
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Micro-credential in Psychology and Organizational Behavior
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Micro-credential in Psychology, Marketing and Design
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Micro-credential in Quantitative and Qualitative Psychology Research
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Building Essential Skills for Therapy (B.E.S.T.) Clinical Psychology Lab
Completion-Based Learning
For KPU Students
Business
Micro-credential in Change Management for Human Resources
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Micro-credential in Emotional Intelligence for Human Resources
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Micro-credential in Human Resources Essentials
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Continuing & Professional Studies
Design
WSD Sewing Labs - Basic Safety and Lab Shutdown Procedures
Completion-Based Learning
For KPU
WSD Textiles Lab - Basic Safety and Lab Shutdown Procedures
Completion-Based Learning
For KPU
WSD Workshop & Technical Hub - Basic Safety and Lab Shutdown Procedures
Completion-Based Learning
For KPU
Health
Medication Management Micro-credential for KPU Health Care Assistant Students
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU Students
Human Resources
International
Library
Science
Micro-credential in Beer Sensory Evaluation
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU
Micro-credential in Business of Brewing
Micro-Credentials (Competency-Based Learning)
For KPU
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Equity and Inclusive Communities