Stackable credentials, also known as stackable programs, are educational paths where students can accumulate certificates or degrees in a specific field. Each builds upon the other credential earned to achieve a higher-level degree. This approach allows students to progress at their own pace toward potentially entering the workforce. After earning a certificate and obtaining a job, a student enrolls again in school to earn another certificate or associate degree.

Certificate Programs Lead To Degrees: How It Works

Stackable credential programs are designed like a ladder with each rung representing a certificate, a second certificate perhaps, and an associate degree. Students can earn a certificate, and then apply those credits toward another certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree. Students like the benefits of this educational and training approach, including:

• Flexibility: Students can start small with earning a short-term certificate either part-time or full time. They can pursue another certificate or associate degree part-time or full-time. Students may enter a day, night, or weekend program or a combination.
• Career Advancement: Each credential or certificate earned can lead to job opportunities or career advancement in a current position.
• Cost Savings: Stackable programs can be more cost-effective than traditional programs because students can potentially avoid repeating coursework or eliminating courses not directly related to their degree.
• Practical Skills: Stackable credentials and certificates typically focus on in-demand skills and education for entry-level jobs and beyond.
• Example: A student might earn a certificate in a specific program, such as business administration, and then apply these credits toward an associate degree in business administration.

The Importance Of Stackable Credentials

Stackable credentials are a practical way to bridge the gap between traditional general education and workplace readiness. As people build one micro-credential on top of another, they demonstrate the achievement of specific building blocks of skills in a particular area. These skills and related education can grow with them well into the future.

Building in-demand skills incrementally fosters a culture of continuous learning. This approach further solidifies the connection between postsecondary study and workforce readiness. Most certificate programs start at foundational levels with overviews of the industry and software programs commonly used in entry-level positions. Students then progress to learning and demonstrating specific skills used in the real-world.

“Stackable credentials, also known as stackable programs, are educational paths where students can accumulate certificates or degrees in a specific field. Each builds up the other credential earned to achieve a higher-level degree.”

Current Workforce Demands: Certificate Programs Lead To Degrees

 In the past, degrees and grade point averages were significant deciding factors in hiring new workers. Today, employers are no longer interested in general degrees or vague skill assumptions. They are concerned about soft and hard skill gaps directly relevant to jobs. Consider these results obtained from surveys of thousands of employers and students:

• 87% of company leadership report they are experiencing skills gaps in the workplace or are expecting them soon as older workers retire.
• More employers require tangible proof of competency before making hiring and upskilling decisions.
• 5,000 students and employers in 11 countries were surveyed that show they believe stackable industry credentials make applicants more likely to be hired.
• 86% of those surveyed agree that stackable credentials would help them succeed in their jobs.
• 74% of American students were more likely to enroll in a degree program that offered stackable industry credentials.
• 55% of international students surveyed want to earn a professional certificate that counts as credit toward their degrees.

Examples Of Stacking Certificates Leading To Associate Degrees

The following five technical Certificate Programs can lead to corresponding technical Associate in Occupational Study (AOS) Degrees through stacking. Graduates are prepared to find entry-level jobs in these industries.

A Great Place To Earn A Certificate And Degree

If you are searching for a school for your technical education and training pursuits, consider ITI Technical College in Baton Rouge. Our professional faculty, staff, and award-winning school are waiting to meet you. We have successfully graduated thousands of technical students since 1973 who have found viable jobs in many different industries.  

Learn how Certificate Programs can be your fast track to a degree. Request more information about our programs and college to see how we can fit into your future.

 For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website: https://iticollege.edu/disclosures/