As part of our commitment to supporting your academic and professional success, the School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS), in partnership with the Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning (OWLL), offers complimentary micro-credential badges to all matriculated and enrolled graduate students. This initiative adds even more value to a Southern graduate program! To participate, students must opt-in by completing a registration request form. An email is sent to all eligible graduate students after the third week of each fall and spring semester providing registration information and instructions.
Once registration is processed, students receive 180 days of access to complete their selected course(s). Upon successful completion, students earn a digital badge recognizing the achievement.
Strengthen. Succeed. Stand out.
Available Microcredentials:
Publishing Academic Research
This course provides an overview of the academic publishing process, from preparing a manuscript to navigating peer review and publication. Participants will learn how to structure research papers, select appropriate journals, address ethical and authorship considerations, respond to reviewer feedback, appropriately engage with AI tools, and increase the visibility and impact of their research. This badge is ideal for students seeking to effectively communicate their scholarly work and advance their academic careers.
Understanding Statistics in Research
This course introduces the fundamental statistical concepts and techniques commonly used in academic and professional research. Participants will learn how to interpret data, evaluate research findings, and develop the skills needed to draw evidence-based conclusions and critically assess statistical results in published studies.
Advanced Research for Graduate Students: Using AI Research Tools and Citation Tracing
Advanced Research for Graduate Students: Using AI Research Tools and Citation Tracing is a fully online, asynchronous course that equips graduate students with advanced research strategies, including the effective use of AI-powered research tools, citation tracing techniques, and scholarly source evaluation to strengthen literature reviews and research projects.
Ethical Uses of Generative AI in Writing
Graduate students explore the ethical use of generative AI in writing, focusing on authorship, accuracy, bias, and academic integrity. Through brief modules and practical activities, learners develop strategies for using AI responsibly while maintaining originality and scholarly standards.
More courses will be added soon!
Cost Savings
| Program | Program Value | Cost (Matriculated Graduate Students) | Program Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Publishing Academic Research | $149 | Free | $149 |
| Understanding Statistics in Research | $149 | Free | $149 |
| Using AI Research Tools and Citation Training | $149 | Free | $149 |
| Ethical Uses of Generative AI in Writing | $149 | Free | $149 |
| Complete 4-Course Series | $596 | Free | $596 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Micro-Credential?
A micro-credential badge, often called a digital badge, is a visual, verifiable record showing that someone has demonstrated a specific skill, competency, or area of knowledge. Think of it as a smaller, more targeted credential than a traditional degree or certificate.
How much do these micro-credentials cost?
These specific badges are free to all matriculated graduate students.
How long do I have to finish them?
You have 180 days from the date of registration to complete the course.
How do I register for the course(s)?
An email will go out around the third week of each fall and spring semester, to all matriculated graduate students, with instructions on how to register.
Are these a required part of my graduate program?
No, these are completely optional and you may take one, many, or all of these micro-credentials. They are 100% online and taken at your own pace. As these are non-credit courses, they do not count toward your graduate program.
Why does Southern provide free courses?
Because your success matters to us. Southern understands that graduate education represents a significant investment of both time and financial resources. That is why we are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for continued growth at no additional cost. These programs are designed to help graduate students build practical skills, expand their knowledge, strengthen their professional credentials, and gain a competitive advantage as they pursue their academic and career goals.
