Building a modular credentialing framework where learners complete shorter, stackable units that build toward larger qualifications — preparing students for a dynamic and competitive workforce.
A New Chapter in Credentialing
Overseen by the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation (OVPAI) with management by the Office of Curriculum and Academic Programs (OCAP).
The Texas State University Micro-Credentials Initiative is an evolution of a dedicated working group, framed around a modular credentialing framework. Learners can complete shorter, stackable units that build toward larger qualifications.
A two-year pilot launches in Fall 2026, with full institutional adoption projected for Fall 2028, marking a new chapter in how Texas State prepares students for a dynamic and competitive workforce.
The full list of definitions can be found in the Texas State University Micro-credential policy (AA/PPS No. 02.01.12). Access our framework.
To learn more about our existing micro-credentials, visit our TXST Parchment Digital Credentials website.
MODULAR FRAMEWORK
Shorter, stackable credential units that build toward larger qualifications and recognized competencies.
TWO-YEAR PILOT
Fall 2026 launch with structured evaluation leading to full institutional adoption by Fall 2028.
WORKFORCE ALIGNMENT
Credentials designed around in-demand competencies and marketable skills for career readiness.
UNDERSTANDING MICRO-CREDENTIALS
Concise, shareable credentials that provide verified evidence of in-demand skills and specialized knowledge.
Micro-Credential
A concise, shareable credential providing evidence of in-demand skills and specialized knowledge attained through focused learning experiences.
Credit-Bearing
Contribute to academic credit and are subject to curricular review. Designated as undergraduate or graduate level and appear on official transcripts.
Non-Credit-Bearing
Build skills for career or personal growth. May be offered through standalone professional development or continuing education programs.
Micro-Credential Standards
Every micro-credential at Texas State meets rigorous standards for design, content, and assessment.
01
Purposefully designed instruction with clearly articulated learning outcomes and competencies.
02
Content that addresses a recognized and objective need, such as career readiness, job-relevant skills development, or continuing professional development.
03
Thoughtfully organized curriculum, assignments, and assessment methods that support and measure student achievement.
04
Credit-bearing micro-credentials require a minimum of 15 instructional hours (approximately one credit hour). Non-credit-bearing require a minimum of 15 hours of active learning.
05
Established procedures for student registration, progress monitoring, and the formal verification of completion.
MICRO-CREDENTIAL COMMITTEE
The primary governance body for all micro-credential development at Texas State University.
The Micro-credential Committee (MC) is responsible for reviewing and approving proposals, managing assessment criteria in accordance with the MC rubric, and ensuring that all micro-credentials are grounded in industry-recognized competency standards.
Through regular review of the university's micro-credential portfolio, the Committee makes ongoing recommendations to ensure that offerings remain relevant, rigorous, and aligned with evolving workforce needs.
All micro-credential proposals undergo thorough evaluation for academic rigor, alignment with institutional goals, and relevance to industry standards before receiving Committee approval. No micro-credential may be implemented without this approval.
Proposals for credit-bearing micro-credentials follow an established curriculum review process that includes sponsor department review, MC assessment, and evaluation by the relevant curriculum committees.
Committee Composition
Voting Members
Faculty Members3
Staff Members3
College Curriculum Committee Chair Rep1
Department Curriculum Committee Chair Rep1
Ex Officio Members
Vice Provost for Academic Innovation (Chair)
Assoc. VP for Curriculum & Academic Programs (Co-Chair)
Assoc. VP for Faculty Success
Asst. VP, University Registrar
Proposals, Modifications & Deactivations
The process for bringing a new micro-credential to life at Texas State.
1
Exploratory Conversation
For all new proposals, schedule an exploratory conversation with the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation to discuss your micro-credential concept.
2
Submit Proposal
Enter proposals into the curriculum management system (PIM Form) for review during a curriculum cycle. All proposals are reviewed by the MC.
3
Committee Review
Credit-bearing proposals additionally follow the standard curriculum review process. If denied, proposals may be revised and resubmitted for future consideration.
COST OF MICRO-CREDENTIALS
Costs are determined by delivery format, instructional resources, and credential type.
Credit-Bearing
Included with Tuition
Students should not be charged an additional fee beyond regular tuition. The micro-credential serves as recognition of competencies and skills achieved within course(s) they're already paying for. All students in the course have the opportunity to earn it as part of their coursework.
Non-Credit-Bearing
Variable Pricing
May be offered as standalone professional development, continuing education, or specialized training programs. These credentials may incur additional charges as determined by the offering unit, reflecting development costs, instructional delivery, and market considerations.
BADGING & ISSUANCE
Micro-credentials are issued through Parchment Digital Credentials, the university's central hub for digital badging.
Parchment Digital Credentials
Parchment serves as the sole central hub for tracking and recording the distribution of all micro-credentials awarded at Texas State University. Administration is managed by OCAP, ensuring institutional oversight and consistency.
✓Secure, verifiable digital badging
✓Follows TXST brand guidelines
✓Unique name, definition, and design per credential
✓Centralized issuance by OCAP
✓Canvas LMS integration available
✓Visible on the TXST Parchment website
How Students Receive Badges
Credential Earned
Student meets all requirements and is verified by the offering university component.
Badge Issued
OCAP issues the badge through Canvas LMS automation or manual Parchment upload.
Email Notification
Students receive notification via their TXST email with registration and claiming instructions.
Claim & Share
Students download, save, and manage their badges on the Parchment platform.
BADGE & PLATFORM SUPPORT
Students are responsible for downloading and securely saving their badges and actively managing their Parchment accounts.
For Parchment digital credential and badge support, email parchment-badges-support@instructure.com for technical help, or use the Parchment Chat Support for general inquiries.