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:
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.
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.
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.
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.