UH Mānoa micro-credentials are short, career-focused academic courses designed to help you gain in-demand skills faster and at a lower cost than a traditional degree. Each micro-credential consists of two to four credit-bearing courses (14 credits or fewer) and culminates in a UH Mānoa digital badge that verifies the competencies you’ve earned.

Micro-credentials are more focused and flexible than degrees or certificates. They target specific skill areas, require fewer courses, and can typically be completed more quickly—making them ideal for working professionals, career changers, and learners looking to upskill.

All micro-credential courses are for credit and the courses appear on an official UH Mānoa transcript. 

A digital badge is a verified credential issued by UH Mānoa that represents completion of a micro-credential. Each badge includes embedded metadata that confirms the skills and competencies earned and can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, and professional portfolios.

UH Mānoa micro-credentials are offered at three academic levels:

• Foundational
• Advanced
• Graduate

The level is based on the academic level of the required courses.

Micro-credentials are open to:

• Non-degree-seeking (unclassified) students
• Current UH Mānoa degree-seeking students

Some advanced and graduate micro-credentials may require prerequisites.

Yes. Students must be admitted to UH Mānoa—either as a degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking student—before enrolling in micro-credential courses.

After admission to UH Mānoa, students indicate their intent to pursue a specific micro-credential. Instructions are provided on each micro-credential course page.

In most cases, yes. Micro-credential courses may count toward a UH Mānoa degree, depending on program requirements and approval. This “stackability” varies by micro-credential, please check the Stackability information on the Micro-credential page you are applying for. Students should consult an academic advisor to confirm how credits may apply.

Most micro-credentials can be completed in one to three semesters, depending on course scheduling and enrollment status.

No. Micro-credentials do not expire. However, limits may apply to how long completed course credits can be used toward a degree, consistent with UH Mānoa academic policies.

Earning a UH Mānoa micro-credential requires completing at least one required course at UH Mānoa following its official launch of the micro-credential.

Digital badges are issued through Canvas Credentials. Students log in using their UH credentials and control how and where their badges are shared, including LinkedIn and other professional platforms.

The cost of taking micro-credentials depends on what type of student you are:

• Students taking courses in the Fall or Spring Terms
• Students taking courses in the Summer Sessions
• Students taking courses in an Extension term
• Non-degree seeking student

Not sure what type of student you are? Looking for details on tuition and fees?

All micro-credential students pay fees however the type of fees and amounts depend on the type of student you are and whether or not you are taking courses on campus or off-campus.Click on the appropriate student type in the How much do micro-credentials cost?

Yes, students classified as either Pacific Islander or WUE are typically charged tuition at 150% of the resident tuition rate.

Federal financial aid is generally limited to degree-seeking students and does not apply to non-degree-seeking students enrolled only in micro-credentials.

Degree-seeking students may be eligible for financial aid if the micro-credential courses apply to their academic program.Students with questions should contact UH Mānoa Financial Aid Services directly.