Centre for Continuing and Distance Education Centre for Continuing and Distance Education

A micro-credential is a document that certifies the acquisition of knowledge and skills after a short training course, such as a Short Course with ECTS credits. Although it is not a degree, it is nevertheless denominated in ECTS credits (up to a maximum of 9 ECTS credits).  

A micro-credential can be stand-alone or offered as a module within a degree programme, or even combined with other micro-credentials in some cases to form a more extensive certification. 

UNIGE bases its definition of a micro-credential on the general definition developed by the European Commission (December 2021).

In an ever-changing job market, acquiring specific and up-to-date skills has become a real professional advantage. University micro-credentials offer a flexible and recognised way to achieve this, through:

1. Direct alignment with market needs

These training courses are designed around the highly targeted skills that companies are looking for today. By certifying relevant skills, a micro-credential demonstrates to employers that you are aware of current and/or future needs and equipped to meet the challenge.
 

2. Flexibility and accessibility 

Micro-credentials are short, sometimes combined or stacked, and often compatible with your work and/or personal obligations. This makes them an ideal tool for training without investing too much time.
 

3. Credible and recognised validation 

In Switzerland, university micro-credentials are composed of ECTS credits and meet rigorous quality standards. UNIGE micro-credentials are based on European recommendations in this area, namely the European Digital Credentials for Learning.
 

4. Adaptability and upskilling/reskilling 

Whether you are just starting your career, changing careers or already employed, micro-credentials allow you to quickly upgrade your skills. They are an effective way to adapt to technological changes and increase your value on the job market.
 

5. Recognition and portability of skills 

Each micro-credential is documented with clear assessment criteria and targeted skills. Micro-credentials can be added to your CV or LinkedIn profile, making your skills visible and verifiable by local or international employers.

The cost of a micro-credential may vary depending on its duration and subject area. For more specific information, please check the micro-credential pages.

UNIGE continuing education training programmes are open to individuals of all ages with some professional experience. The average age of participants is approximately 40.  

Micro-credentials are aimed at a wide audience but may require certain admission requirements. For specific information on this subject, please consult the micro-credential page directly. See all micro-credentials.

On the advanced search page, there is a “micro-credential” button that you can select to display results by micro-credential. The pink “microcertification / micro-credential" logo.