Micro-credential courses offered as pilot program by province

The Alberta government is investing $5.6 million in a pilot program offering micro-credential courses it says will help Albertansmove up in their careers or explore new opportunities.

Micro-credentials are certificates indicating a student has taken a course or courses in a specific aspect of a job.

"From artificial intelligence to animation to specialized agriculture and more, micro-credential programs empower Albertans to quickly advance or pivot in their careers, saidDemetrios Nicolaides, minister of advanced education, in a news release Monday.

"They also ensure employers have access to the specialized skills and talent they need to grow their business and compete in a rapidly changing economy."

The programs, 56 in all, will be offered at 19 post-secondary institutions across the province and are intended to fill labour gaps in specific job sectors.

Programs includemachine learning and artificial intelligence, solar energy, animation and data privacy and security.

The government says most courses will be available this fall.