Preparing Learners for Success: The Role of Certification in Higher Education

Author: Kylie Connell

In today’s competitive job market, certifications can provide a way for learners to validate specific skills that align with industry demands. Higher education institutions play a key role in equipping learners with not just theoretical knowledge, but also the practical skills needed in their chosen careers. Certifications may offer a means to bridge the gap between academic learning and workforce requirements. 

Certification as a career catalyst 

Industry-recognized certifications are often viewed as a valuable asset, potentially enhancing a learner’s job prospects. These certifications can serve as a signal to employers that a candidate has acquired specific skills and knowledge relevant to their field. In various industries, such as healthcare, certifications can be an important factor in the hiring process, making them a significant component of career preparation. 

Chandler Maxfield, Academic Partner Advisor at CareerStep, explains, “Certifications in healthcare have become a vital tool in enhancing learners’ employability, offering a direct connection between academic achievement and industry expectations. By incorporating the certification-focused programs that CareerStep offers, institutions are not only adapting to the changing demands of the workforce but also helping to provide learners with tangible, career-ready skills that can set them apart in a competitive job market.” 

Bridging the skills gap 

While academic degrees provide a broad foundation, there can sometimes be a gap between classroom learning and the practical skills required in the workplace. Certifications may help to address this gap by focusing on hands-on skills that are directly applicable in real-world settings. This practical focus is particularly important in rapidly evolving industries where new technologies and methodologies are frequently introduced. 

Heather Naylor, Partner Success Manager at CareerStep, dives deeper.  

“CareerStep’s training programs are designed to align with current industry standards and emerging trends, helping our learners acquire relevant skills. Our programs incorporate hands-on experiences and real-world simulations that help to equip learners with practical skills, enabling learners to meet the evolving needs of employers. This alignment enhances workforce readiness while incorporating training that directly supports the ever-growing needs within the healthcare industry.” 

Lifelong learning and continuous education 

The concept of lifelong learning is becoming increasingly relevant as professionals seek to keep their skills current throughout their careers. Certifications can offer a pathway for ongoing education, helping individuals stay up to date in their fields. For higher education institutions, incorporating certification-prep programs into their offerings can support continuous learning and provide ongoing value to alumni and working professionals. 

Empower your students with CareerStep’s certification-driven training 

CareerStep partners with institutions to offer flexible, industry-aligned certification programs that help to prepare learners for real-world success. By providing your students with access to these certification pathways, you’re not just equipping them with knowledge but helping empower them with the skills needed for today’s competitive job market. Whether they are just starting out or seeking to advance their careers, these certifications can be a key differentiator. 

Partner with CareerStep today and take the next step in helping prepare your learners for a successful future.