Micro-pathways

A gateway to community college transformation

100+ micro-pathways co-created with colleges, learners, and employers through the Lab’s Community College Growth Engine since 2021.

An illustration showing the Micro-pathways approach. The diagram illustrates the 3 credentials: Technical Skills, 21st century skills and on the Job Training being validated by Employers and moving into the workforce and continued learning upskilling

What is a micro-pathway?

Co-designed with learners and employers, micro-pathways are two or more stackable credentials, including a durable skills micro-credential, that are flexibly delivered to be achieved within less than a year and result in a job at or above the local median wage, and start learner-earners on the path to an associate degree.

Empowering community college transformation with Micro-pathways

Leading the nation and their regions in creating micro-pathways with employers with over 200+ New Models

The first Community College Growth Engine cohort developed 30 micro-pathways from October 2020 to December 2021. Most of the colleges focused on meeting the needs of adult learners, as nationally we witnessed the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on displacing many from their jobs and incomes. 

Each micro-pathway provides entry and exit points to a clear career path and to securing a sustainable job with options for growth. Selected occupations are based on regional demand, and depending on state and/or regional economic development conditions, some are more focused on emerging industries and occupations.

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