NMIT's first micro-credential launched

NMIT is the first Institute of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP) to launch a micro-credential since the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) micro-credential pilot project in 2018. The micro-credential has also been approved for funding by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).

The Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Society and Business (Level 5) is designed to challenge a student's preconceived thoughts on AI. Students will learn about the potential of this emerging technology and develop the confidence to embark on their own AI development project.

This micro-credential is delivered fully online with 50 hours of learning across 10 weeks. Successful completion of the micro-credential will be recognised on the student’s record of learning from NZQA.

NMIT is partnering with industry on new bite-sized qualifications aimed at addressing skills shortages in the workforce and empowering people to retrain quickly and cost-effectively.

Micro-credentials are small, stand-alone qualifications that certify the achievement of specific skills or knowledge. 

“These short courses are designed to help learners acquire the skills they need, when they need them,” says NMIT Executive Director, Customer Experience and Excellence, Sue Smart

A micro-credential can help people attain industry-specific skills to enter the workforce quickly. They can also help employers to retrain and upskill staff in response to changes in the workplace.

Micro-credentials are much shorter courses than traditional programmes, typically running for just a few weeks. They can be created with flexible learning options to make them suitable to fit study around work or family commitments. 

NMIT is looking to partner with businesses to develop micro-credentials to help address critical skills shortages.