As the world of higher education is rapidly developing and adapting to the various novel trends such as short-term courses, nano-degrees, online programs, blended degrees and more, students are getting more exposed to technology to reap its benefits. As the newest trend MicroMasters degrees have been introduced in the market and students are actually growing an affinity towards this new-age program. A set of online courses that assist students in developing their professional skills and academic knowledge, MicroMasters degrees are generally offered by certified universities and colleges. After the completion of the courses, students will be awarded an official certificate which they can use as their academic credibility.
Types of Micromasters Program
Micromasters Programs are only available online and their curriculums are equivalent to any generic master’s programs. Generally, these programs are of two types - self-paced MicroMasters and instructor-led MicroMasters. In self-paced MicroMasters, the students study in their own rhythm without any specific deadlines, although they need to complete the courses in the specific period decided initially. For instructor-led MicroMasters, the assignments and exams have deadlines and students need to go on according to the schedule.
Popular Disciplines for Micromasters Program
Although students are free to select from a wide range of academic disciplines, there are few streams that are widely popular such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Supply Chain Management, Energy Engineering, Accounting, Business Analytics, Sustainable Development and so on.
Advantages of Micromasters Program
- Progress your career: Offered by certified universities and colleges, the Micromasters certificate earned by students can be used for both academic and professional purposes. Top corporate organizations that recognize Micromasters degree include IBM, Bloomberg, Volvo, Ford, Adobe, General Electric (GE), and more.
- Master’s degree: MicroMaster’s certificate can be used as a general Master’s degree. Varying from one university to another, sometimes MicroMasters degree is generally the equivalent of 25% of the credits for a full-time Master’s.
- Relaxed online education: Without any specific responsibilities, an online MicroMasters is brief and allows the students to study whenever they want and wherever they want. Even if the instructor-led MicroMasters programs still have deadlines, they still have few flexibilities which can be enjoyed by the students. A MicroMasters program generally takes 3 to 6 months to complete, which is equal to a quarter to a half of a Master’s degree. This advantage can allow the students to take an augmented route to get a full-time Master’s degree.
- Flexible and Affordable: Offered fully online, MicroMasters programs are conducted multiple times per year or as per the demands of the students. With the flexibility to continue the programs at the desired pace without disrupting the general flow of life, MicroMasters credential is flexible and can be used to fit the specific requirements and interest of the students. As a separate credential, it not only possesses a career-relevant value but also demonstrates the students’ knowledge and credibility to potential or existing employers. On the other hand, it is quite affordable and costs much lesser than traditional master’s programs offered by the various universities.
