This study case was presented at the Forum of Spanish Universities in European Universities (Foro UEUE)
EUNICE (European University for Customized Education) will pilot six joint microcredentials during the 2026-2027 academic year, reinforcing its commitment to flexible, accessible, and internationally recognised lifelong learning opportunities. The initiative was highlighted during the meeting of the Forum of Spanish Universities in European Universities (Foro UEUE), hosted on 13 and 14 July by the University of Cantabria (UC), a member of the EUNICE alliance.
The pilot programme forms part of EUNICE’s broader strategy to develop innovative educational pathways that respond to the rapidly evolving needs of learners, professionals, employers, and society. The new microcredentials will cover key thematic areas including business, artificial intelligence, climate change, child protection, and sport, providing learners with opportunities to acquire targeted skills through short, flexible learning experiences.
Through the pilot of these six microcredentials, EUNICE aims to contribute to a more connected European Higher Education Area, enabling learners to build specialised competencies, enhance employability, and engage in lifelong learning through innovative, internationally recognised educational formats.
The announcement comes as universities across Europe intensify efforts to make higher education more flexible and accessible. During the Foro UEUE meeting, more than forty academics exchanged experiences and discussed the challenges and opportunities involved in designing, recognising, and implementing joint transnational microcredentials. Representatives also explored solutions related to accreditation, employer recognition, funding, and the alignment of national regulations.
Flexible up-skilling
Microcredentials are increasingly recognised across Europe as an effective tool for lifelong learning and professional upskilling. In line with recommendations from the Council of the European Union, European University alliances are promoting these flexible learning formats to support continuous education and help individuals adapt to changing labour market demands.
EUNICE is currently developing joint microcredentials that will expand both its English-taught educational offer and the continuing education opportunities available across the alliance. After a call for proposals form the University of Cantabria, the initiative brings together academic partners and stakeholders from the business sector, public institutions, and civil society to co-create programmes that address real-world challenges and skills needs.
Upon successful completion of a course, participants will receive a European digital certificate through Doxychain, ensuring secure verification, portability, recognition of their achievements across borders.
