The integration of micro-credentials with mobility can serve multiple functions. They can formally acknowledge the skills gained during mobility experiences, enhance accessibility to international learning by offering short-term or virtual alternatives, and support students who may not have the resources for long-term exchanges. Furthermore, they can encourage collaboration across CHARM-EU institutions by creating structured learning pathways that bridge physical and digital learning environments.  

Benefits for various stakeholders 

Micro-credentials combined with mobility can provide several benefits for students across all levels of study. For Master’s students in the Global Challenges for Sustainability (MGCS) program, who are already required to participate in mobility, micro-credentials related to intercultural competence, global leadership and cross-cultural adaptation can prepare them for these experiences and enhance their employability. Additionally, Bachelor’s and Master’s students could benefit from mobility-linked micro-credentials that provide greater networking opportunities and enhance the skills they will use during their international exchange. These micro-credentials may also be particularly useful for students who have not yet had the opportunity for international exposure, offering them a structured and recognized pathway to gain global competencies. 

For doctoral candidates, micro-credentials that promote transdisciplinary research skills and intercultural competencies could complement their academic development, helping to increase mobility options that are often limited for this group. Doctoral candidates, in particular, may also benefit from shorter, more flexible mobility options, which can be funded through various mechanisms such as Erasmus grants for short-term or blended mobility. 

Staff members within CHARM-EU partner institutions also stand to benefit. By engaging in mobility-linked micro-credentials, they can develop professional skills, deepen their understanding of international collaboration and bring new expertise back to their home institutions. This is particularly important for administrative and academic staff who might not otherwise participate in structured mobility programs. 

Challenges and considerations 

Despite the potential benefits, several challenges must be addressed. One major concern is ensuring that micro-credentials are financially accessible to all students. This is particularly important given the limited budgets many students face, as well as the costs associated with short-term mobility, especially when international travel is involved. Another consideration is the logistical support required to deliver these micro-credentials, particularly in terms of teaching staff and the coordination needed between partner institutions. Additionally, micro-credentials need to be clearly differentiated from other learning opportunities, such as online courses or Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs), to avoid confusion among students. 

It is also essential to ensure that these credentials are formally recognized, either through ECTS or other systems like digital badges, to enhance their value for participants. For example, micro-credentials could serve as preparation for students going on mobility, or as a way to formally recognize skills gained during the mobility experience itself. 

Sustainability and inclusivity are other critical considerations. Short-term mobilities, while offering flexibility, can have a higher environmental impact due to travel. Therefore, CHARM-EU must carefully consider the environmental footprint of its mobility initiatives, promoting sustainable practices where possible. Additionally, shorter mobilities are more inclusive for certain groups, such as students with disabilities or financial constraints, as they offer opportunities to gain international experience without the barriers of long-term mobility. 

Activities and future directions 

CHARM-EU is already taking concrete steps toward integrating mobility and micro-credentials. One of the first initiatives is “Understanding and Navigating Interculturality: A short online preparation course” , designed for students going on mobility exchanges. This course can be taken by both incoming and outgoing students, as well as staff and will serve as a model for future mobility-linked micro-credentials. 

Looking ahead, CHARM-EU will continue to explore innovative ways to integrate micro-credentials into existing mobility structures. It will also work on developing a framework for registering and recognizing these credentials across partner institutions, ensuring consistency and transparency. Further efforts will be made to align these initiatives with CHARM-EU’s educational principles, ensuring that they contribute to the broader goals of the project. 

If you are a university coordinator or academic staff member aiming to improve cross-border collaboration and student mobility, you have the opportunity to collaborate in the creation and delivery of micro-credentials that align with the needs of your students. The guide below provides clear steps to help you navigate the creation, implementation and promotion of micro-credentials as part of mobility programs at your institution.