The Increasing Value of Courses and Credentials

Digital credentials can significantly enhance career advancement, improve program referrals, and increase brand recognition.

Mark Saymen

2/10/20251 min read

According to the 2024 State of Credentialing report by Accredible, digital credentials are on the rise, reshaping how organizations and learners approach courses and career development:

  1. Digital Credentials Are Gaining Momentum

    • Common but Still Emerging: Among surveyed issuers, 93% offer digital credentials, while 55% still offer paper or PDF formats.

    • Why Adopt Digital?: The most cited reasons include increasing credential sharing, boosting brand awareness, and driving referrals and program growth.

    • Positive Business Impact: 94% of those who adopted digital credentials report a direct benefit to their organization, citing increased awareness, revenue growth, and higher enrollment/renewals.

  2. Success Story — Frogames

    • 3x Completion Rate: Since introducing digital credentials, Frogames has seen learners complete courses at triple the previous rate.

    • 67% More Sharing: Credential sharing soared, leading to a 3% spike in referral traffic—further driving brand discovery.

    • Learner Perspective: “People aren’t just paying for courses. They’re completing them, talking about them, and sharing them,” says co-founder Juan Gabriel Gomila Salas.

  3. Career Advancement Through Credentials

    • Valuable for Job Offers: 96% of credential recipients find them valuable, with 78% noting they boost their chances of landing a job.

    • Real-World Example: Penn State student Michael DeWolfe displays his digital badges on LinkedIn and his resume, regularly prompting interviewers to discuss his proven Excel skills.

  4. Learners Embrace Ongoing Skill Development

    • 84% Seek Specific Outcomes: More money, promotions, new jobs, or required certifications.

    • 92% Plan Further Credentials: Learners are looking for meaningful programs, presenting issuers with recurring revenue opportunities—as long as the experience is compelling enough to keep them coming back.