What Microdegrees and Badges Tell Us about the Jobs of Tomorrow

Research from the Department of Labor, academic researchers, and consulting companies tells us a great deal about the jobs of the future – and about what students should be studying in college today.

But we have recently been looking at another valuable indicator of the skills that are in demand to fill jobs . . .

The microdegree courses that are being offered by different providers

As you know, microdegrees (which can also be called nanodegrees, badges, certificates, and by other names) are surging in popularity, and for a very good reason. They allow students to earn a marketable credential in far less time than it would take them to go back to college, full or part-time, to earn a full-blown degree. And because microdegree programs teach skills that are in demand in the workplace, they serve as a good indicator of the skills that are needed to fill jobs today.

What Mini-Majors and Subjects Are Being Taught?

We logged some time making this list of skills that are being taught in courses that are currently available from a variety of providers. It’s a fascinating list that includes many of the skills that can help students get jobs today.

Accounting
Android and iOS application development
Artificial intelligence
Big data
Bioinformatics
Bitcoin
Blockchain
Business analytics
Cloud computing
Cybersecurity
Data science
Digital marketing
Digital product management
e-Learning
Entrepreneurship
Financial modeling
Game theory
Google AdWords
Graphic design
HR management
Instructional design
Internet of things
Machine learning
Marketing analytics
Neural networks
Programming and coding
Project management
Robotics
Self-driving car technologies
Search engine optimization (SEO)
Social media marketing
Software design
Solar energy engineering
Supply chain management
Sustainable energy
Training development
User experience research
Virtual reality
Web developer skills

Participate in a Student Research Foundation Career Pathway Study and you will be empowered with new information to make career and educational decisions that ultimately align with your interests, passions, and aptitudes.