Advance Your Career with Professional Education from Miami Online
Part 2 of the Miami Online Short-Term Learning Series comparing microcredentials, professional education, and certificates.
Miami Online offers Microcredentials, professional education, and certificates to boost your resume and career growth. What are these programs, and how do you choose which one is best for you? Let’s get to know Professional Education. First, a brief overview of the different kinds of short-term programs.
What are Microcredentials, Professional Education, and Certificates; how do they differ?
We’ll define each of these categories broadly and explore the details of each type of program in our three-part series.
Microcredentials
- Microcredentials are a collection of 1 to 4 (typically undergraduate) courses designed to certify specific industry skillsets.
- Microcredentials earn college credit and can be applied toward a degree.
- The individual courses comprising Microcredential programs show up on your transcript,, but the Microcredential program name will not.
- You receive a digital badge as “proof” of your learning.
Professional Education
- Professional Education is one or more non-credit courses that any adult or enrolled student can take to expand their expertise.
- Professional Education courses will not appear on your college transcript, and you will receive a digital credential and/or a certificate of completion.
Certificates
- Certificates are a collection of courses that earn credit and can apply toward a degree.
- The individual courses, as well as the name of your certificate, will appear on your Miami transcript.
Compare Microcredentials, Professional Education, and Certificates
| Microcredentials | Professional Education | Certificates | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timeframe | 2 to 12 months | Hours to weeks | 6 months to 2 years |
| For Credit | X | X | |
| Apply toward a degree | X | X (depends on the program) | |
| Available Online | X | X | X |
| Start | Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer | Most available on demand any time | Fall, Spring |
| Digital Credential | X | X | X |
| Cost | Per credit hour | Varies: Free to $800 per program | May vary by program; per credit hour |
What Is Professional Education?
Professional Education (PE) courses are non-credit, short-term learning experiences focused on real-world skills for adults. You don’t have to be part of the Miami community to enroll, and we encourage current Miami students, staff, and alumni to take advantage of PE courses.
The ease of Professional Education means:
- No transcripts or letter grades.
- No long-term commitment.
- Gain practical knowledge you can use right away.
Instead of grades, you’ll earn a digital credential — such as a badge or certificate of completion — that shows employers what you’ve learned. Each PE course has its own set of requirements for successful completion, such as passing all quizzes with a certain percentage score.
Explore Miami University professional education course offerings in the professional education website.
Popular courses include:
- AI Fundamentals (free for current Miami University students, and staff and faculty)
- Developing Your Digital Professional Profile (free)
- Digital and Workplace Accessibility Essentials
- Leadership Essentials
You’ll gain practical skills you can apply immediately and showcase to employers.
Flexible Learning That Fits Your Schedule
Most PE courses are:
- 100% online and asynchronous (Complete on your schedule without coming to campus).
- Self-paced, so you can learn when it works for you.
- Designed to be completed in weeks or hours.
- Miami offers many PE courses year-round.
Course content is created by Miami University subject matter experts, so you’re gaining relevant, high-quality knowledge in a format that fits your life.
Why Professional Education Works
Today’s employers are looking for candidates who continue learning beyond the classroom.
According to the 2025 State of Credentialing report:
- 91% of HR and talent leaders value digital credentials
- 86% say digital credentials increase a candidate’s chance of getting an interview
Professional Education courses help you:
- Fill skill gaps quickly; show employers that you are continuing your professional development outside of the workplace.
- Strengthen your resume.
- Demonstrate initiative and career growth.
- Stay current in a rapidly changing job market.
Who Are Professional Education Courses For?
Miami University designed Professional Education primarily for working professionals to build skills, but there are benefits for all stages of adult learners:
- Students who want to stand out in the job market.
- Career changers exploring new fields.
- Lifelong learners interested in expanding their knowledge.
Quick Facts to Know
- No application required — any adult can enroll.
- Courses are typically online and self-paced.
- Complete in hours or weeks.
- You’ll earn a digital badge or certificate of completion.
- Professional Education does not qualify for financial aid or scholarships.
Miami Online Professional Education
If you’re a working professional looking to enhance your resume and gain skills quickly, professional education at Miami Online is a fantastic option for you.
Explore our professional education website and check back often often as we add more programs.
Visit our FAQ page or contact us at [email protected].
Up next: Our final look at short-term programs with Miami Online: Certificates.
Content written by Miami Online Staff.