Developed by the Universities Australia Working Group on Microcredentials, the Guidance for the Portability of Australian Microcredentials will help universities and other educational institutions develop short-duration qualifications that are easily recognised and built upon between institutions.

The new guidance highlights the need to allow tertiary institutions to develop innovative microcredentials that enable personalised, flexible and lifelong learning, while making sure they are based on a robust foundation of quality and integrity.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said microcredentials offered an efficient way for Australians to access the knowledge and expertise inside universities and gain an edge in the job market.

“Microcredentials allow people from different backgrounds to upskill or re-skill at one of Australia’s world-renowned universities, in fields from law and accountancy, right through to agricultural sciences and environmental studies,” Ms Jackson said.

“Our universities are undertaking important work to link industry-ready knowledge into microcredentials, making sure that everyone can access skills and learning at a time and pace that suits them.”

The guidance has been developed by a group of experts, chaired by Professor Keitha Dunstan of Bond University.

Professor Dunstan said that the guidelines were intended to build confidence and trust in microcredentials from Australian institutions.

“Higher education providers face increased demand from learners who seek microcredentials as alternative or additional qualifications,” Professor Dunstan said.

“By making the portability of quality microcredentials as easy as possible, we’re hoping to maximise their value to learners and their employers.”

The guidance is available for viewing on the Universities Australia website..