Micro-Credentialing at the University of Cologne

Given their potential, micro-credentials are also a highly relevant topic at the University of Cologne. In particular, the focus on skills and the academic basis of the learning programmes leading to micro-credentials, as well as appropriate quality assurance, are regarded as key factors.

The approach to micro-credentialing at the University of Cologne will…

• open flexible learning pathways beyond traditional degree programmes.
• foster lifelong learning through compact, needs-oriented offers.
• translate excellent research directly and as quickly as possible into learning offers.
• enhance subject-specific, inter-, trans- and meta-disciplinary competencies.
• extend the existing teaching and learning offers with a focus on future-relevant competencies, also beyond existing curricula.
• promote innovative teaching and learning formats.
• reach a broader, more diverse community of (international) learners.
• offer digital proof of qualification that is compatible on the European level.
• develop learning offers that create international perspectives and learner communities in cooperation with international partners.

These aims are set out in more detail in the Cologne Concept for Micro-Credentialing. This concept also outlines how micro-credentials and the associated learning experiences are defined at the University of Cologne and describes the governance framework underpinning the issuance of micro-credentials and the provision of these learning experiences at the University of Cologne.