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  1. Home
  2. Masters
  3. MicroMasters Programs

Test Drive Grad School ONLINE

Try a MicroMasters Online Course for FREE!

MicroMasters From EdX

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

Work to Successfully Complete a Series of Classes

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.

Earn a Micro MicroMasters Credential

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.

Pursue Your Career or Earn a Full Masters Degree

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.

How a MicroMasters Program Works

admissions icon for micromasters

Admissions Process

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.

micromasters online enrollment

Enroll Online

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.

apply to a micromasters program

Apply to a Masters Program

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.

Top 5 REasons To Consider a MicroMasters Program

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.

  1. Save Time and Money

    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.

  2. Accelerate Your Masters

    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.

  3. Study Key Concepts

    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.

  4. Refresh Your Resume

    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.

  5. Update Your Academic Portfolio

    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.

Choose Your EdX MicroMasters Program

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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business analysis masters program at columbia university
Business Analytics
Columbia University
A MicroMasters in Business Analytics is designed to empower learners to make data-driven business decisions and predict outcomes. Coursework often delves into data, statistics, mathematical modeling and computing tools.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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digital leadership masters program at boston university
Digital Leadership
Boston University
The Digital Leadership MicroMasters program explores strategies to drive and transform businesses in today’s digital economy. You could work to develop the knowledge and skills to lead organizational change, people, and teams. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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managing technology and innovation masters program at rwth aachen university
Managing Technology & Innovation
The RWTH Aachen University
The MicroMasters in Managing Technology and Innovation focuses on how to deal with disruptive change in the marketplace. Explore tools to assess risk and position an organization in times of uncertainty. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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digital product management masters program at boston university
Digital Product Management
Boston University
A Digital Product Management MicroMasters program is oriented to the ins and outs of how to create product roadmaps. Coursework spans marketing a product on social media, business analytics, systems design thinking, and more. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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evidence based management masters program at australian national university
Evidence-Based Management
Autralian National University
The Evidence-Based Management MicroMasters Program could teach learners how to assess evidence and use it to inform managerial decisions. Examine ways to establish a search strategy and communicate with stakeholders. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 7

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project management masters program at rochester institute of technology
Project Management
Rochester Institute of Technology
The MicroMasters in Project Management could help learners develop the in-depth knowledge to lead teams and manage various projects. Take courses that could help you acquire the tools and techniques to oversee a project through its lifecycle. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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international hospitality management hong kong polytechnic university
International Hospitality Management
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
The MicroMasters in International Hospitality Management could help students gain in-depth insight into the global hospitality industry. Coursework is likely to address topics such as marketing for the luxury traveler, technology, human resources, and strategy. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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international business management masters program at thunderbird school of global management
International Business Management
Thunderbird School of Global Management
The International Business Management MicroMasters program could help you develop management skills and knowledge that are key for those who conduct global business. Students may gain the ability to lead, identify risk, and communicate effectively. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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leadership in global development masters program at the university of queensland
Leadership in Global Development
The University of Queensland
A balance of theory and practical skills, the Global Development MicroMasters program could bolster technical and managerial abilities to tackle challenges in development. Students may study how to analyze and respond to problems with an adaptive mindset. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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entrepreneurship masters program at the indian institute of management in bangalore
Entrepreneurship
Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore
The MicroMasters in Entrepreneurship program embraces the point of view that leadership can be taught. Coursework could help students gain skills in finance, accounting, marketing and human resources..

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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marketing in a digital work masters at curtin university
Marketing in a Digital World
Curtin University
The Marketing in a Digital World MicroMasters program could help learners develop a grasp of the key concepts and practical skills at play in today’s marketing profession. Coursework may address how to create and sustain a brand.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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supply chain management masters program at MIT
Supply Chain Management
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The MicroMasters Program in Supply Chain could help students understand key concepts like supply chain analytics, design, technology, dynamics and end-to-end supply chain management.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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business management masters program at the indian institute of management in bangalore
Business Management
Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore
Students who work to achieve a MicroMasters in Business Management could develop a keen sense of the management process. Study key functional areas that could be critical to a successful manager. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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International Law masters program at Université catholique de Louvain
International Law
Université catholique de Louvain
The International Law MicroMasters program could help you master the language and institutions of international law. Courses may address domestic governance, human rights, war, investment law and more. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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Instructional Design & Technology UMUC masters program at University System of Maryland
Instructional Design & Technology
UMUC, University System of Maryland
The Instructional Design and Technology MicroMasters program could help you learn how to design and operate digital and mobile learning platforms. Coursework is likely to discuss educational theory, data analytics and more. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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Leading Educational Innovation masters program at The University of Michigan
Leading Educational Innovation
The University of Michigan
Students in the Leading Educational Innovation and Improvement MicroMasters program could study how to work with and improve classrooms, schools and educational systems.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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UX Research & Design masters program at The University of Michigan
UX Research & Design
The University of Michigan
Learners in a UX MicroMasters program could study how to understand user needs and factor them into product design. Coursework may cover human behavior, usability tests, project design, UX surveys and more.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 9

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Bioinformatics UMUC masters program at the University System of Maryland
Bioinformatics
UMUC, University System of Maryland
Potentially acquire the ability to include bioinformatics tools in your laboratory as you work to earn your MicroMaster in Bioinformatics. In this program, you are likely to explore the dynamic blend of biology, computer science and mathematics.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3

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Solar Energy Engineering masters program at Delft University of Technology
Solar Energy Engineering
Delft University of Technology
Aim to master technical knowledge in a Solar Engineering MicroMasters program. Some of the topics you explore include systems design, solar systems installation and quality assurance through videos, readings, exercises and real-world cases.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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Biobased Sciences for Sustainability masters program at Wageningen University & Research
Biobased Sciences for Sustainability
Wageningen University & Research
The MicroMasters Program in Biobased Sciences is aimed at current energy, chemical and biotech industry professionals. It is likely to focus on the use of chemical and biotechnological tactics to produce energy-carriers, chemical building blocks and more.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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Human Rights masters program at Curtin University
Human Rights
Curtin University
The MicroMasters in Human Rights program takes an in-depth look at human rights as a multidisciplinary field covering history to activism, development, and more. Explore key and current issues like: poverty, inequality, climate change, and social justice. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3

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social work masters program at the university of michigan
Social Work
The University of Michigan
The MicroMasters in Social Work program could provide students with a greater grasp of professional social work. Coursework is likely to address the impact of policy on social services and how social policies affect practice with individuals, families and communities. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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Data Science masters program at The University of California, San Diego
Data Science
The University of California, San Diego
Explore statistics, probability and machine learning in a Data Science MicroMasters program. Study how to collect, clean and analyze big data. In this unique series of courses, you might develop a grasp of mathematical and computational tools..

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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Robotics masters program at the University of Pennsylvania
Robotics
University of Pennsylvania
Students in a Robotics MicroMasters program could refine their grasp of automation and sensing. Explore key mathematical concepts and research. You might acquire the tools to design, build and program robots that could solve real-world problems.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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Software Testing masters program at UMUC University System of Maryland
Software Testing
UMUC, University System of Maryland
The Software Testing and Verification MicroMasters program is designed to help you gain key knowledge about software testing concepts and techniques. You could study how to plan, execute and manage software testing as you explore software test cases.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3

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Big Data masters program at the University of Adelaide
Big Data
University of Adelaide
The Big Data MicroMasters program discusses the analytical methods used to transform data into decisions that inform change within organizations. Students could work to build technical and computational skills. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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Analytics masters program at The Georgia Institute of Technology
Analytics
The Georgia Institute of Technology
A MicroMasters in Analytics: Essential Tools and Methods program could help you become proficient with data collection, storage, analysis, and visualization tools like R, Python and SQL. Study how and when to apply these tools in a business context. 

umber of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 3

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Cybersecurity masters program at the Rochester Institute of Technology
Cybersecurity
Rochester Institute of Technology
Students in a Cybersecurity MicroMasters programs could develop their grasp and expertise in network security, forensics and risk analysis. Study how to perform digital forensic analysis of cybercrime, as well as protect computer networks from breaches.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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Professional Android Developer masters program at Galileo University
Professional Android Developer
Galileo University
The MicroMasters in Professional Android Developer program could help you explore aspects of Android Application Development, like JAVA, app development, AdMob and more. Students could also prepare to take the Google Associate Android Developer Certification Exam. 

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 5

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Artificial Intelligence masters program at Columbia University
Artificial Intelligence
Columbia University
The MicroMasters in Artificial Intelligence program could help you develop a grasp of basic A.I. concepts and how to apply them to real-life problems. Work to master the essentials of machine learning and algorithms through a variety of courses, like robotics, animation and CGI motion.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 4

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Software Development masters program at the University of British Columbia
Software Development
University of British Columbia
Students in a Software Development MicroMasters could learn about new technologies (e.g. Java, JUnit, IntelliJ IDEA, Typescript) and new software systems. Study how to write programs using a systematic approach, and to design programs that are easy to maintain.

Number of Courses in MicroMasters Program: 6

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Still Have Questions? FAQ About the MicroMasters Credentials

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.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a MicroMaster?

The time it takes to complete a MicroMaster varies because each program has its own specific requirements. In some programs, the average length of each course could be about six to seven weeks, but there are longer and shorter programs as well. Also, each MicroMaster program requires a different effort level in terms of how many hours per week each course could take. The nice thing is that these details are listed out in each program detail page. This is a really great feature if you are on a time budget and need to plan-out your weeks in advance.

Can I Accelerate the Time to Completion?

There is no way to reduce the time needed to take and pass all your courses. To earn the MicroMasters Credential, you need to successfully earn a verified certificate in all the courses when they are scheduled. Since the courses are on an instructor-led rather than self-paced timetable, you likely can’t accelerate time to completion.

What Happens When I Complete a Course?

As a verified learner, when you successfully complete a MicroMasters course, you receive an individual verified certificate. If you satisfactorily finish all the courses in a MicroMasters Program in the verified track, you will receive a MicroMasters Credential (certificate).

How Do I Take My Exams?

MicroMasters exams are taken via an online proctoring service that edX.org uses to provide monitoring for certain exams. Learners who take proctored exams are required to follow a set of defined rules to receive a Satisfactory result from the proctoring service

Do I Need to Be a Verified Student to Earn a MicroMasters Credential?

You do need to be a verified student to earn the MicroMasters Credential. In fact, if the credential is your aim, you must successfully complete, and receive a verified certificate in each of the courses set by your program.

Which Institution Offers the Verified Certificate?

Certificates are issued by edX under the name of the school listed on your program description page. They are delivered online through the platform edX.org.

Is the MicroMasters Credential Always Transferable?

The MicroMasters Credential is not always transferable to any school for credit. In most cases, the school that offers the program grants the credit. Some schools may accept transfer credits from another university’s MicroMasters program. If this is the case, you can easily see who accepts the credits on the program detail page next to the heading “Institutions Offering Credit”.

Is Completion of a MicroMasters Credit a Guarantee of Admission to a Masters?

The fact that you earned your MicroMasters certainly warrants good cheer but it does not guarantee admission to a full masters program. You must apply to, and be accepted into, the on-campus or online degree program that is associated with your MicroMasters program. The fact that you achieved the credential however may provide an admissions office some insight into your capability, as you can list it on your application.

How Many Credits Can I Transfer to a Masters Degree?

The exact credit value that you earn and potentially transfer to a masters degree program is determined by each school, so it will vary. Most program description pages state this type of information, as well as which masters degree is related to the MicroMasters program you choose.

How Much Does a MicroMaster Program Cost?

To earn a MicroMasters credential you need to enroll in the Verified Certificate track for each of the MicroMasters courses in the series. The prices can vary across courses and any given MicroMasters program. Generally, they might range between $600-$1,400 per program. You can find the exact amount listed in the program detail page.

Is Completion of a MicroMasters a Guarantee I Will Get a Job?

Different companies may recognize individual programs but this does not guarantee an interview or a job. A MicroMasters program might, however, help students gain certain tools which could be useful in their endeavors. Also, when you earn a certificate, it is in a digital format, which could be easily shared on your LinkedIn page and resume. This is one way to highlight to your networks what you have attained and learned.

What if I Am New to Online Education?

You may be new to an online education, but MicroMasters programs make use of current technology, digital tools and interactive media to make the experience as approachable as possible. Learners access their course content, videos, textbooks, assignments and discussion forum via an online course management system. It is all available through your browser, so you generally do not need any additional software.

What is EdX?

EdX is an online learning destination and MOOC provider that was founded by Harvard University and MIT in 2012. They offer courses from well-recognized universities and institutions to learners in many countries around the globe.

Can Anyone Enroll in a MicroMasters Program?

Since a MicroMasters is made up of graduate-level courses, some classes could require prerequisite knowledge. If this is the case, these requisites are listed on the enrollment page for the course.
Sources:[i] fastcompany.com/3057941/how-the-masters-degree-became-the-new-bachelors-in-the-hiring-world

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