Innovative Problem Solving Micro-Credential

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa · Shidler College of Business

About This Micro-Credential

A high-energy, project-based pathway designed to move learning out of the textbook and into action. Think of it as an “innovation playground” where you’ll tackle interactive challenges, whether you’re tasked with launching a viral marketing campaign, maximizing impact with just $20, or collaborating on a challenge from a local leader, the focus is on actionable curiosity. This micro-credential is less about finding the “right” answer and more about experimenting, failing fast, and building the grit to solve complex problems. You will develop the 4C skills (Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Communication) in a fun, supportive environment, ensuring you are tech-forward and ready for whatever the “jobs of the future” throw your way.

How to get started

• Register for either or both courses.  There are no prerequisites.

Coursework

This micro-credential includes two courses:

• BUS 102—Building Innovative Problem-Solving Skills for Jobs of the Future

• MGT 320—Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship

Who This Is For

Open to all majors who want to build skills in innovation, entrepreneurship, and creative leadership. No prerequisites required.

• Students who want to differentiate themselves in the job market by mastering “human-centric” skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
• Aspiring leaders who want to solve complex local or global challenges.
• Creative thinkers who may not yet see themselves as “entrepreneurs” but want the tools to bring their ideas to life.

Skills You Will Gain

Develop the core competencies that employers identify as essential:

• The 4Cs: Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Communication.
• AI Literacy: Hands-on experience using AI as a “helper” tool for data analysis, ideation, and rapid prototyping.
• Resilience & Agility: The ability to pivot and persist through the ambiguity of real-world problem-solving.

What You Will Learn

Through this experiential pathway, you will move beyond “book-learning” to acquire practical knowledge that sticks:

• The Design Thinking Process: How to empathize with stakeholders, define problems, and prototype solutions.
• Customer Discovery: How to conduct authentic research and fieldwork to gather stakeholder insights.
• AI-Assisted Synthesis: How to use the latest technology to organize data and accelerate solution development.
• Professional Communication: How to work within a team, effectively communicate your ideas, and build relationships with industry and community stakeholders.

Stackability

Credits may apply toward UH Mānoa bachelor’s degrees and a future Innovation and Entrepreneurship certificate (pending development).

Learn more

Fill out the form below, and our knowledgeable staff will answer your specific questions about Micro-credentials available at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, the application process, and how to get started.