Summary
A selection of the courses offered by Fontys Pro-ICT culminates in a micro‑credential. This page explains what a micro‑credential is, the design requirements, and the application process for a micro‑credential.
Through Fontys Pro-ICT a range of professional development opportunities are provided for practising professionals, including courses. A proportion of these courses, when successfully completed, are closed with a micro‑credential.
Micro‑credentials are digitally recognised certificates that allow professionals to demonstrate what they know, can do and understand after successful completion of the learning provision. They are nationally recognised and guarantee that high‑quality education has been undertaken.
A micro‑credential is an Edubadge bearing the special attribute “micro‑credential”. An Edubadge is a secure, digitally verifiable proof of a delivered learning outcome.
A micro‑credential at Fontys ICT meets the following design requirements, which ensure flexibility, quality and alignment with the labour market.
A clear labour‑market need must be identified. The content is aligned with relevant industry partners. The micro‑credential aligns with Fontys ICT’s strategic vision for Lifelong Learning (LLO).
The offering is aimed at professionals with at least an associate‑/bachelor‑level qualification. Participants must be employed in a relevant (IT) context. Suitability is assessed via an administrative diploma‑check. An intake interview verifies that the participant’s expectations match the course and that an appropriate workplace is available.
A Fontys ICT micro‑credential may have a lower study‑load (in hours) than the associated full‑time teaching unit, but the level remains the same and is set at NLQF level 6 (bachelor level).
Talent‑oriented and student‑centred teaching at Fontys ICT gives participants control over their learning process. Learners can choose content and structure, enjoying autonomy that accommodates personal ambitions and development needs.
Micro‑credentials are subject to formal formative review and assessment and follow Fontys ICT’s assessment policy. Assessment is based on a portfolio with formative feedback moments. Learning outcomes can be demonstrated in various ways, depending on the participant’s background and learning pathway.
A Fontys ICT micro‑credential is recorded with a micro‑credential label that minimally includes:
Micro‑credentials, whether obtained internally or externally, do not automatically confer exemption from regular Fontys ICT study programmes. They are treated as Previously Acquired Competences (EVCs). A professional may use an EVC procedure to demonstrate the extent to which exemption is possible.
The micro‑credential falls under Fontys ICT’s quality management and is evaluated as part of the regular teaching evaluations. Additionally, a dedicated questionnaire evaluates the unique characteristics and quality of LLO for professionals. Industry partners are involved in validating learning outcomes and ensuring the content remains up‑to‑date.
Education and Research at Fontys has defined an application process for micro‑credentials. After an exploratory conversation and briefing, an application can be submitted. Once the Quality Committee for Micro‑credentials approves the request, the badge is designed and the supporting systems are configured. After successful completion of the assessment, the institution can award the micro‑credential to the participant.