Launch of the New Micro-credential System

August 1st, 2018

Micro-credentials are a new system launched by NZQA to support short courses in New Zealand with a government accreditation. Earlier this morning, the Education Minister launched the new micro-credential system to support skill development opportunities that aren't covered by traditional qualifications.

What are micro-credentials?

5 to 40 credits in size
There will be strong evidence of a need from employers, industry and/or community
There won't be similar qualifications on offer
Remain up-to-date through annual reviews

Micro-credentials are smaller than qualifications; they’re not intended to replace them, but instead be offered alongside. The aim is to give learners a cost-effective and time-efficient style of learning.

Careers and education are constantly evolving, and in today’s fast-paced society, micro-credentials will ensure New Zealand education and training systems stay relevant. It’s expected that maintaining up-to-date skills will become an important way to improve and future-proof the New Zealand workforce.

The opportunity offered to industry, employers, iwi and community by micro-credentials is designed to enable them to bring emerging skills to market quickly. This will mean that employers can access talent with the expertise they need and learners can further up-skill themselves in key areas.

Who will offer micro-credentials?

At first, Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) will offer micro-credentials. They can also be offered from both domestic and international organisations that aren't TEOs, although NZQA will conduct a separate assessment service to evaluate their content.

When will micro-credentials be offered?

NZQA will begin considering applications from New Zealand TEOs from August 22nd, 2018.

For non-New Zealand TEOs, the application process begins on October 31st 2018.

Where can I find micro-credentials?

You'll be able to find the new micro-credentials courses right here on StudySpy. NZQA will publish the database on their site for these new study options, and we'll offer an easy to navigate place to compare and make sense of the different options (like we already do with qualifications) for tens of thousands of students!

For more information