Projects "Life-Long-Learning"

Microcredentials

The University of Bern has established the basis for awarding microcertificates (Microcertificate of Advanced Studies, MiCAS) as part of its continuing education portfolio. This new format allows specific competences to be acquired and certified in short, flexible learning units. Microcertificates can be used independently or combined modularly to achieve larger qualifications such as a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS). 

This makes the University of Bern one of the first Swiss universities to integrate the European approach to microcredentials into its continuing education strategy. The new format promotes targeted qualification opportunities and creates a bridge between the requirements of the labour market and the individual needs of participants. 

Central legal and organisational aspects were resolved in close cooperation with the Continuing Education Commission and the Executive Board of the university. These will be presented to the Senate in March 2025. The first micro-certificates could be offered as early as spring 2025. The feasibility and demand will be tested and evaluated as part of pilot projects. 

With the introduction of micro-certificates, the University of Bern is expanding its position in the field of lifelong education. Participants benefit from the opportunity to acquire skills in a flexible, transparent and job market-oriented manner - a significant advantage in an increasingly dynamic world of work. 

Joint appearance of the lifelong learning offers

In spring 2025, a central entry page for the university's lifelong learning (LLL) programme will be created. It combines the areas of Continuing Education, Children's University, Pupils‘ University and Senior Citizens’ University as well as the future Lifelong Learning Centre (LLC). 

The site offers prominent links to existing websites (e.g. Children's University, Senior Citizens' University, Continuing Education Portal) as well as a new website for the Pupil Studies programme. 

This centralised platform creates a clear and user-friendly structure that is aimed at all target groups: children and their parents or teachers, young people, professionals, senior citizens and anyone who wants to continue their education. It makes the diversity and quality of the LLL programme more visible and strengthens the university as an innovative, committed educational institution. 

With this project, the university is laying a milestone in promoting lifelong learning, facilitating access and consolidating its position as a leading provider of high-quality LLL education programmes. 

Status: November 2024