Microcredentials at OCC
What is a Microcredential?
Microcredentials are fast, focused, flexible courses that help you develop in-demand skills and experience to meet emerging employer needs and can generally be completed within a matter of months. Being “stackable,” you can earn more than one, and they provide a pathway to additional microcredentials, certificates, or degrees so you can level-up in your career or round out your degree!
Ready to get started?
Have questions, want to talk to someone, or just learn more about our microcredentials? Please complete the interest form below:
Microcredential Interest Form
Ready to sign up for a microcredential? Please complete the Microcredential Request Form below. Create an OCC account or use your existing OCC account to access the form.
Current Microcredential Offerings
Bring sound to life like a pro with the Audio Production Microcredential. Get intensive hands-on training in recording, editing, mixing, podcasting, and music production using industry-standard gear-perfect for launching a career in audio or supercharging any media degree. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you to continue your education in the Media Production and Digital Communication's associate degrees and readies you to immediately launch your own podcast and apply to entry-level audio production opportunities in broadcasting, digital media, and podcasting, or sound recording positions in the music industry or live theatre. Through practical, hands-on projects, you will build foundational skills with industry-standard audio equipment and software, refining your craft along the way.
Providing you with an opportunity to earn two in-demand national certifications from Microsoft demonstrating your expertise in Excel, plus providing you with foundational knowledge in business, this Business Spreadsheets microcredential is a win-win! You will study common organizational structures of businesses and organizations and the management principles that drive them to success. You will understand how data informs marketing strategy and financial analysis. You will gain advanced skills in Excel to help you support business and operational goals, including basic data analysis, formulas and macros, charts, even business templates. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study and provides existing professionals-from office assistants to managers and directors across industries, with the specialized skills needed to keep pace or advance. This microcredential can also provide those applying for entry level positions across industries with a competitive advantage.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Command the machines that build the future with this CNC Machining & Programming Microcredential! You will gain in-demand skills in maintenance, operation, advanced programming, and CAM software. Advanced skills align with the role of an in-demand machinist or programmer in today's precision manufacturing boom. Successful completion of this microcredential readies all to continue their education in the Mechanical Technology associate degree program and provides specialized skills needed by existing professionals to keep pace or advance to roles as CNC machinist, operator or programmer, or repair technician.
Turn your creativity into commercial impact with this Commercial Photography microcredential, using smart phones and/or digital cameras. This three-course microcredential focuses on creating professional, market-ready images using studio lighting, editing software, and real-world content strategies. You will study technique, use the latest software, and study commercial content strategies so that you can produce polished, brand-ready photography that stands out in today's visual marketplace. This microcredential is a great way to move a personal passion for photography into a career or for existing professionals to add in-demand skills. Successful completion of this microcredential readies you to continue your education, and depending on the depth of your portfolio, prepares you to apply for entry to mid-level jobs including assistant photographer, associate photographer, e-commerce or product photographer, or studio assistant. This microcredential is relevant for entrepreneurs, small business owners, or existing professionals in any industry being asked to contribute to web, social media, and marketing projects.
Weave compelling narratives to capture the attention of your audience with this Creative and Professional Writing microcredential. You will start with foundational skill development in the writing process informed by review of well-known works. You will then work to develop key writing skills across creative, professional, and technical genres. You will learn to write for different audiences, communicate effectively in workplace settings, develop technical writing expertise, and confidently present research clearly. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study and provides current professionals with an opportunity to add specialized skills to help them keep pace or advance.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Gain foundational skills with this Database microcredential. You will learn the essential role that databases play in modern information technology systems. You will gain essential skills in database architecture and structure, building and accessing databases, and how to interface databases with websites. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for further study in the Computer Information Systems associate degree and supports entry into roles such as web developer, data base developer, and SQL Developer.
Create, animate, and stand out in the digital world with this Digital Art microcredential. This three-course microcredential introduces industry-standard tools and techniques for digital imaging, animation, and motion art. You will create using digital art tools, from image capture to stunning animations, using pro software and techniques to produce eye-catching still and motion art that gets you noticed and hired. Successful completion of this microcredential readies you to continue your education, and depending on the depth of your portfolio, to apply for entry to mid-level positions such as social content designer, social media coordinator, junior graphic designer, graphic and motion designer, and production artist. This microcredential is a great fit for entrepreneurs seeking freelance work and/or for existing professionals looking to add or refresh specialized skills in animation.
Excel in strategic digital communications with this microcredential! You will gain essential skills in crafting messages for the digital environment, developing tailored marketing strategies, and producing professional written communications for business contexts. You will also gain foundational skills in marketing and social media campaigns and related analytics. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study, provides specialized skills for current communications professionals or employees in any organization asked to do more for the company website or social channels, and readies those new to the field to immediately apply for entry-level positions in the marketing and public relations field or at organizations seeking web content writers.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) I microcredential aligns with the DSP I certification through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Grow your communication, crisis intervention, and critical thinking skills to assist individuals with developmental disabilities and their families as they navigate social service systems, work on independence, and practice skill development. This microcredential is the first in a series of two, along with the DSP II Microcredential. Thanks to a partnership with the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), limited time grant funding is available to pay for your tuition, fees, books, course materials, NADSP credentialing, and educational support. Eligible students who successfully complete each microcredential and certification can earn $750 stipends. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study and prepares current DSPs to advance.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials and monetary support from a new partnership between OPWDD and OCC.
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) II microcredential aligns with the DSP II certification through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Grow your communication, service planning and assessment, and critical thinking skills to assist individuals with developmental disabilities and their families as they navigate social service systems. This microcredential is the second in a series of two, along with the DSP I microcredential. Thanks to a partnership with the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), limited time grant funding is available to pay for your tuition, fees, books, course materials, NADSP credentialing, and educational support. Eligible students who successfully complete each microcredential and certification can earn $750 stipends. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study and prepares current DSPs to advance.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials and monetary support from a new partnership between OPWDD and OCC.
This Infant & Toddler Studies microcredential provides you with the essential knowledge and skills needed for the education and care of young children. You will understand developmentally appropriate activities, learn how to conduct evaluations, and execute early intervention strategies. You will have the opportunity to put what you have learned to work in a field placement in an early childhood setting. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you to apply for the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.complete coursework necessary for CDA® certification.
Launch a hands-on career in modern manufacturing. This unique seven-course microcredential that can be completed in one semester builds essential electrical, mechanical, and math skills for entry-level roles in manufacturing and equipment maintenance. It also stacks seamlessly into the Electromechanical Technology Certificate and degree programs. Successful completion of this microcredential readies all to continue their education and to immediately apply for positions such as Manufacturing Technician, Machine Operator, Process Operator, Production Worker or Production Team Member.
Learn how to design and protect the network with this Networking microcredential. You will gain essential skills in network architecture and design, diagnostics and troubleshooting, the Linux operating system, server configuration and management, network and server security. You will learn the foundational role that networks play in modern information technology systems. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you for further study, internships, and application to entry-level positions such as help desk technician, IT support specialist, network technician, and more.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials
This Preschool Professional Studies microcredential empowers you with in-demand knowledge and skills needed to work in preschool education. You will study key early childhood concepts and develop practical skills for working with young children. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you to continue your education in the Liberal Arts & Sciences: Early Childhood and Childhood Education associate degree and to immediately apply for work in early childcare settings. You will also have met part of the requirements (the necessary 120 hours of formal training), for the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Note: Please discuss with your advisor the work, portfolio, visit and exam requirements needed to complete your certification.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Build in-demand skills with this Social Media microcredential! You will study digital communication, content creation, and brand development. You will gain foundational knowledge of social media platforms, explore strategies for mobile media production, and learn how to shape messages that engage audiences and build communities. Courses emphasize hands-on application, from creating compelling digital content to understanding branding and public relations in today's media-driven environment. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you to continue your education and supports entry into roles such as social media manager.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Elevate your impact in the classroom with this Teaching Assistant II microcredential! Designed for those currently working in the classroom and holding New York State Level I certification, this microcredential focuses on essential communication including writing and research, working with diverse populations, and the foundations of psychology and human development. You will build essential skills that enhance your ability to communicate with and understand the students you are teaching, their parents and your colleagues. You will cultivate your cultural awareness and develop inclusive teaching practices. Successful completion prepares you to apply for your NYS Teaching Assistant Level II certification, prepares you for additional study, and to begin planning for Teaching Assistant III (see linked microcredential below).
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Take your skills to the next level with this Teaching Assistant III microcredential, allowing you to take on advanced responsibilities in the classroom. This microcredential builds on skills gained in the Teaching Assistant II microcredential. You will explore developmental psychology and the significant impact of developmentally appropriate curriculum. You will study best practices in classroom management while honing your own communication skills. You will enhance your own literary analysis skills to better support those of your students. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you for continued study and readies you to apply for your Teaching Assistant III certification.
This microcredential is eligible for NYS Part Time Tuition Assistance for Non-Degree Credentials.
Turn ideas into cinematic reality with this Video Production Microcredential. Hands-on training in single-camera field shoots, multi-camera studio setups, scripting, and professional editing gives you the complete skill set to create compelling video content for any platform or industry. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares you to continue your education, or may open the door to entry-level opportunities in news, sports, entertainment, advertising, social media, and streaming. Through practical, hands-on projects, you will build foundational skills in single-camera and multi-camera production, as well as post-production editing.
Write the words that stop scrolls and spark action with this Writing for Digital Content Microcredential. Develop powerful storytelling, editing, and platform-specific skills to craft blogs, social campaigns, and multimedia stories that inform, persuade, and connect with audiences everywhere. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares learners for continued study, equips current professionals with digital storytelling techniques to better manage their organization's blogs and multimedia platforms, and readies newcomers to immediately apply for entry-level writing roles digital marketing or as web content creators.
Commonly Asked Questions
- Students currently enrolled in a degree program.
- Professionals looking to upskill, seeking career advancement or change, and a higher salary.
- Businesses seeking to provide professional development opportunities for employees.
- Lifelong learners who’d like to explore a particular interest.
- Individuals looking to give college a test drive.
- The digital badges are a downloadable image that can be posted to platforms like Linkedin or used in an email signature to show that you earned a micro-credential and mastered a specific skill(s).
- Badges help to set you apart from other applicants when it comes time to apply for a job or grow in your current career — so display them proudly!
Congratulations on earning a microcredential badge! You finished the hard work of earning it, now follow these 5 simple steps to promote and publish it on social media, through email, your resume, or any other way you can think of:
1) You'll receive an email saying you have earned a microcredential badge. Follow the link within the email to accept your badge.
2) In your Credly account open the menu in the upper right hand corner of the screen and navigate to Badges.
3) Once there, you will see a list of all the badges you have earned. Click on the one you want to share.
4) Look for the green Share button.
5) You will see different ways to Promote and Publish your badge. Click on the links and follow the instructions.
- Creative & Professional Writing and Digital Writing — contact the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Direct Support Professional I and Direct Support Professional II — contact the School of Health, Wellness, and Human Services
- Teaching Assistant II & III — contact the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Database & Networking — contact the School of Technology, Engineering, and Computing
- Questions about receiving or accepting your Credly badge — email Grad Central