Non-degree credentials primer
September 2025
Author: Matthew Veach
OREA has released a new legislative brief on non-degree credentials, such as certificates, certifications, and registered apprenticeships.
A non-degree credential is a qualification or achievement that equips an individual with skills or competencies for the workforce, excluding technical diplomas and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.
The legislative brief compares the different types of non-degree credentials, includes information about the providers of such credentials, and considers related initiatives in Tennessee and other states.
Three policy considerations aimed at ensuring quality and value, affordability, and data and accountability for non-degree credentials are also included.