The Quality Question: Making Sense of Nearly Two Million Credentials

Michelle Van Noy and Katherine Hughes state that with nearly two million nondegree credentials available, measuring quality requires a multidimensional framework that considers program design, demonstrated competencies, learner and employer outcomes, and the market systems that make credentials recognizable and valuable. They emphasize that quality information must be communicated clearly—through accessible, consumer-friendly metrics—to help learners, employers, and policymakers make informed decisions and strengthen accountability as Workforce Pell expands.