1. Embed Certifications Into Degree Programs
Many potential students can’t wait two or four years for a career boost. With the cost of living increasing and spending power going down, potential students need qualifications that pay off now.
By embedding industry certifications into degree programs, institutions can meet that need for immediate career value. Students can earn a credential that helps them qualify for a better job, which eases some of the stress while they pursue formal degrees.
MedCerts Partner Solutions makes it easy to embed nationally recognized industry certifications into your degree programs. By adding these credentials to your degree programs, you set yourself apart in an increasingly competitive landscape.
2. Offer Stackable Microcredentials
A degree program can feel intimidating, especially to learners who have been out of school for a while. Stackable credentials subdivide the higher education experience into smaller, more approachable achievements that can build towards a full-fledged degree.
The process relies on microcredentials: smaller-scale certifications that students earn in weeks, not years. They serve as natural on-ramps, launching or continuing a student’s education in a way that shows measurable progress. Stacking these credentials helps schools encourage students’ persistence and assist dropped-out students in getting back on track.
3. Align Coursework With In-Demand Skills
Job seekers’ confidence is at a historically low level, with only 44.9% of displaced workers believing that they’ll probably land a new position. It’s an employer’s market, and workers need to know what steps to take.
Colleges and universities can help by highlighting career pathways and potential investment returns for prospective students. A smart first step is for schools to partner with local industries and employers. These relationships educate schools about labor market needs while building the institution’s reputation, so companies know where to send workers for a quality education.
4. Expand Access for Nontraditional Learners
According to FlexJobs’ 2025 State of the Workplace Report, 69% of professionals expressed having changed or considered changing careers this year.
These respondents are typically adult learners who need an income. They need efficient and cost-effective programs that are flexible enough to suit their lifestyles, even if they ultimately want a college degree.
Certifications and microcredentials are excellent matches for these students. Use them to attract nontraditional students by positioning your institutions as a lifelong learning hub, not just a place to get a piece of paper.
5. Measure Impact and Build the Case
As you institute some of these changes, track changes in enrollment and student persistence. Share success stories from partner employers and students who earn certifications while moving toward a degree. Emphasize these outcomes in your communications with potential students and other institutions. By embedding certifications, offering stackable credentials and expanding access, your institution can stand out in a competitive market. MedCerts Partner Solutions is ready to help you implement these strategies and boost enrollment.
