By Alex Sorrells / The Jambar
Youngstown State University implemented a new initiative — general education academic credentialing — which allows eligible students to participate in courses that count towards microcredentials.
These microcredentials include creative thinking, critical thinking, personal and social wellbeing and quantitative and scientific reasoning. Students must choose three out of six courses that fall into one of these credentials in order to receive the microcredential.
In a press release sent to YSU faculty, the Office of Academic Affairs stated that eligible students will receive instructions on creating a Canvas Credentials account and providing a non-YSU email to access credentials after graduation.
“Although these credentials will not appear on student transcripts, they offer students verifiable, portable documentation of key learning outcomes, evidence of competencies gained in general education coursework and meaningful tools to enhance resumes, Linkedin profiles, email signatures and graduate/professional applications,” the press release stated.
There are several other microcredentials planned to be added in 2026-27. These include professional communication and presentational literacy, leadership, digital citizenship and global engagement.
“This initiative positions YSU at the forefront of student-centered credentialing efforts and supports our ongoing alignment of General Education outcomes with workforce and graduate education expectations,” the press release stated.
There is a timeline in place from spring to summer 2026 for the Information Technology Services team to implement the microcredentials.
“Beginning Summer 2026, the credentialing module and assignment will be automatically incorporated into the Blackboard Course Template for all applicable General Education courses to ensure consistent implementation across the university,” the press release stated.
The addition of these microcredentials aligns YSU with the values of other universities in the area. For example, Kent State University provides microcredentials for many science, technology, engineering and mathematics pathways, including 3D printing, electrical technicians and nursing administration.
“A targeted Blackboard communication campaign will guide students through the steps to create their Canvas Credentials account and access the credentialing link. This communication will also include direct access to the list of approved microcredentials and course badges on YSU’s website,” the press release stated.
In an interview with The Business Journal, Provost Jennifer Adams said the credentials can help students in more ways than one, as they allow students to better understand the courses they are taking. The credentials can also be added to a resume to increase chances with potential employers.
Students must complete the three courses for the microcredential with a grade of “C” or higher.
The Office of Academic Affairs advises that anyone with questions should contact them directly.