Coursera Report: 92% Of MENA Higher Education Leaders Agree Micro-Credentials Create Job-Ready Graduates

Coursera, a leading online learning platform, has launched a new report emphasizing the rising use of micro-credentials by academic institutions worldwide. The report shows that universities are increasingly supplementing traditional degree programs with industry-specific micro-credentials to produce job-ready graduates and enhance the professional growth of both alumni and faculty.

The report, based on a study of more than 1,000 higher education leaders—including deans, provosts, and chancellors representing over 850 institutions across 89 countries—underscores the role of micro-credentials in shaping the future of education. With Coursera offering more than 125 Professional Certificates, it continues to serve 155 million learners globally, supporting academic institutions in preparing students for the evolving job market.

According to the report, 88% of surveyed higher education leaders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region believe that students are more likely to enroll in programs offering academic credit for industry-recognized credentials. Additionally, 92% agree that graduates who earn these credentials are better equipped for the job market, and all agree that they play a key role in strengthening long-term career outcomes for students.

This sentiment is echoed by students themselves, with 97% of students in the UAE and Saudi Arabia stating that earning a Professional Certificate would help them stand out to employers and get a job when graduating.

Despite this enthusiasm, the report reveals that only 41% of institutions in the MENA region currently offer micro-credentials for academic credit. However, the outlook is positive, with 68% of surveyed leaders planning to incorporate them into their curricula within the next five years.

The report also highlights key challenges to the adoption of micro-credentials. Leaders cite a lack of awareness (50%), difficulties integrating micro-credentials into existing curricula (45%), and uncertainty about the quality of micro-credentials (35%) as primary barriers.

“Academic institutions need to collaborate with governments and industries to align their curricula with the evolving demands of the job market,” said Kais Zribi, Coursera’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa. “By incorporating job-relevant content and micro-credentials into their programs, universities can help students develop the skills necessary to succeed in the careers of tomorrow. Institutions must act swiftly to adopt micro-credentials and empower students with the tools to unlock their future career opportunities.”

To download the full report and explore the key findings, click here. To learn more about Coursera for Campus, visit coursera.org/campus.