The Increasing Value of Courses and Credentials

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.