New HFL microcredentials offer expanded opportunities for student learning
CECH launches two wellness-focused microcredentials to meet workforce needs
The University of Cincinnati (UC) is introducing a new approach to education with microcredentials — targeted and tailored learning opportunities designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s college students.
Recently, the School of Human Service’s Health, Fitness, and Lifestyle (HFL) program introduced two new microcredentials that help students align their studies with future career goals and paths.
“A certificate is between 15 and 18 credits. A microcredential is smaller — three, six or up to nine credits,” says Keri Thoman, UC Director of Academic Services and Associate Athletic Director.
UC offers an array of minors and certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels for scholars to pursue, and often a student will choose one that matches well with their major or focus. The beauty of the microcredential is that it stands alone and can be crafted to match an individual’s interests and ambitions.
“Students today want things that are fast and tailored, not one size fits all.”
Keri Thoman Senior Associate AD, Director of Academic Services
UC senior high jumper Mallory Mullen competes during an outdoor track and field meet for the Bearcats. Photo courtesy of University of Cincinnati Athletics.
Sport Performance and Wellness is one microcredential the School of Human Services is offering. This is specifically designed for student athletes, and the focus is to improve fitness levels and skill sets related to their everyday life and well-being. Student athletes can earn up to three credits for being on a UC Varsity Athletics team at the end of each academic year in combination with HFL classes that total at least six credits.
“The idea is to help them learn tools they can use both during and after their time at UC. It’s open to student-athletes with at least a 2.0 GPA,” says Kaitlin McGeeney, HFL program manager.
Mallory Mullen, a senior high jumper for UC Track & Field, is currently pursuing the Sport Performance and Wellness credential. “The HFL courses provide real-life applications [for] health and wellness rather than just academic content,” she says. “The information can be put into practice and allow for a more hands-on approach to learning.”
HFL courses provide a good foundation for student athletes to learn how to manage the pressure of high expectations during their demanding seasons. “There’s a class called Building Resilience, which is great for athletes and dealing with adversity and challenges,” says Thoman.
Through hands-on activities, group discussions and active assistance, the HFL program fosters an environment for holistic self-growth and strength for all students.
“I don’t think we need to try to manage our personal health and wellness on our own, and it is okay to rely on instructors to help guide us,” adds Mullen. “So much of the material is related to what we go through every day. Having a community of people in your classes and an instructor who can offer feedback is valuable.”
CECH also introduced a second microcredential, Personal Health and Wellness, this semester. This microcredential was created for students who are interested in going beyond the classroom to strengthen physical and mental health. Combining HFL offerings like Yoga, Healthy Cooking Basics, Stress Management and more allows students to reach the six credits required to earn this microcredential.
“HFL is just a natural alignment with our athletes,” explains Thoman. “A lot of the classes are online, which student athletes like too — and the same goes for the general student body. There are a lot of benefits.”
UC senior Mallory Mullen holds a camera while working as a sports photography intern with Cincinnati Athletics. Photo/Provided.
The flexibility of the microcredentials gives students the opportunity to explore all their interests and prepare for potential career fields.
“I am interested in sports photography, and I have found that one of my initial draws to the HFL courses [was] to understand the athlete better so that, when photographing athletes, I can try to capture the whole person,” Mullen says. “HFL courses brought awareness to mental and physical health and, when capturing images, I tend to want to capture a story of the true athlete, not just an amazing play.”
“It’s exciting — a new way of learning and building curriculums. It adds some pizzazz and energy to higher education.”
Keri Thoman Senior Associate AD, Director of Academic Services
As microcredentials continue to gain traction across higher education, UC’s HFL program is allowing students to take control of their learning and future career possibilities. By offering flexible and customizable pathways, this ensures that students not only graduate with a degree but also with targeted skills that make them competitive in the workforce. With more microcredentials on the horizon, UC plans to expand opportunities to empower all students to learn with purpose and passion.
“The opportunities are endless,” says Thoman. “It’s exciting — a new way of learning and building curriculums. It adds some pizzazz and energy to higher education.”
Featured photo at top: Attendees at the Exercise Science Expo working out. Photo by CECH Marketing
Connect with Kaitlin McGeeney
Kaitlin McGeenry is the Program Manager for CECH Human Services. She supports students, faculty, and staff with information about the HFL microcredentials, including how to get started and which options best fit your goals. For questions or guidance, reach out to Kaitlin directly.
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