Employers aren’t just asking for graduates anymore—they’re asking for proof of skills. From problem-solving to leadership to technical expertise, higher ed is being challenged to make student achievements visible in new ways. Our recent survey of higher ed leaders reveals how institutions are responding, and why traditional transcripts may no longer tell the full story.
While transcripts remain the dominant credential, the findings highlight clear momentum toward more flexible, skills-based records and credentials. One emerging solution is the Comprehensive Learner Record (CLR). Adoption is still in its early stages—just over 1 in 10 institutions report plans to implement—but CLRs represent the kind of forward-looking, skills-based record many leaders are beginning to explore. The shift reflects a growing desire to modernize how learning is documented, not just for compliance, but for clarity in an increasingly competitive workforce.
The infographic below highlights the biggest takeaways from the survey—from growing investment in certificate programs and employer partnerships to a shift in how institutions define and support student success.
It’s a quick snapshot of where higher ed credentialing is headed—and where new opportunities are taking shape.
CLRs are gaining traction because they provide a smarter, more comprehensive way to capture learning— going well beyond courses and grades. They showcase academic work alongside co-curricular experiences, competencies, and real-world achievements, creating a more complete picture of what a student knows and can do.
As institutions rethink how they prepare learners for life after graduation, skills-based records like CLRs are becoming essential for connecting student learning to career pathways and workforce readiness.
