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MicroMasters online courses offered by EdX are a set of masters-level online programs that offer an alternative to a traditional masters degree.
You may choose to take these courses and earn the credential on it's own, or, potentially earn credits toward a full degree. Created by, and offered at, many top-ranked graduate schools, these micro certifications are gaining traction in higher education.
While courses offer the same challenge as a masters degree program, MicroMasters programs are designed for distance learning. They are shorter than a full degree program and hyper focused on a specific topic such as supply chain management or artificial intelligence. Most programs consist of five or six courses and a final capstone project.
written by Rana Waxman
Each student takes and works to successfully complete their series of classes on edX.org. Then, to show their mastery over the subject matter, students may have to take one or more proctored exams.
To earn a Micro MicroMasters credential from their university, students need to pass these exams and meet any other criteria of their program. For instance, you may have to achieve a university-set minimum grade.
MicroMasters programs are validated by top tier companies to ensure a competitive advantage. Additionally, you can apply to a university that accepts your MicroMasters certificate for credit and, if accepted, the certificate will accelerate your Master's degree.
In some universities, admissions to a MicroMasters program could be described as ‘inverted’. Why inverted? Well, in traditional masters programs, students begin their courses once they are admitted. By contrast, in a MicroMasters program, learners may get started on their online courses without the need to apply for admission. That said, there could be prerequisites for some programs.
If you are someone who cringes at the thought of lengthy paperwork, you might find it simple to enroll in a MicroMasters program. Typically, all you do to begin is create an account and fill in the online form. Then you could register for each individual course and the capstone project from this account.
Students who successfully complete their MicroMaster Credential and decide to apply to the related masters program must then apply to the school and program for consideration . Usually they will have to submit a standard graduate application at their school of choice and meet entry requirements.
MicroMasters programs might provide a convenient and flexible way for motivated learners to build potentially useful career skills and get a head-start on a masters degree. You could choose a program that mirrors your goals and take online courses on a schedule that fits your needs. Study topics that matter to you and your career path - at your own pace.
If you are a professional and can’t take time off to earn a traditional masters degree, the MicroMasters program may be an accessible and affordable option. You may choose to take the Certificate on its own. Some programs are supported by well-established companies for the industry-relevant skills they might provide . Or, as an alternative, use the MicroMaster to potentially reduce the credits, time and money you invest on a full graduate degree associated with your studies.
The MicroMasters could provide a faster path to a masters degree. Completion does not guarantee admission to a full master program but it could make it simpler. Once you have achieved your certificate, you may apply to the university that honors it, for credit. If you are accepted, the credit weight has the potential to accelerate your masters. Note that each MicroMasters Credential may have a different credit weight, so this is not a one size fits all process. However, in the program notes, there is usually a list of possible next steps for those who do want to apply their credits to a masters degree. Be sure to speak with your intended graduate program to make sure it will honor your micromaster program for credit.
Many of the MicroMasters programs are put together with a series of courses recognized by industries as being relevant. While not a guarantee of employment, the courses are often planned-out to help students study key concepts and/or gain skills.
Perhaps you earned your bachelors degree a while ago and want to bolster your skills and resume. Maybe you are in a career and hope to transition or enhance it. A MicroMasters may be a great solution to keep abreast of recent techniques, research and technology. Study topics that might help you gain a competitive edge in fields such as cybersecurity, business management, artificial intelligence and more.
Not ready for a masters program? A MicroMasters credential is also a stand-alone addition to your academic portfolio. It offers a potential pathway to university credit that could add value to your present skills and knowledge base.
To get started, check out the featured MicroMasters programs below. Click on the icon to learn more about each program. The enrollment process is simple, and you could be on your way to continued education in no time! Drive your career and your knowledge in a new direction. Take the next step towards your MicroMasters now.
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Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 7
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 9
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
umber of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4
Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6
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MicroMasters programs are recent, even though the universities that offer them have established graduate programs. Perhaps the answers to some of these frequently asked questions will help clarify what the experience could entail.