Amy Nelson, a student in Henderson, Nevada, has earned high-demand industry certifications on her way to a bachelor’s degree in data management.

She's not alone. The toll being taken on the economy by the coronavirus pandemic is giving microcredentials a huge burst of momentum. A lot of people will need more education to get back into the workforce, and they’ll need to get it quickly, at the lowest possible cost and in subjects directly relevant to available jobs.

Jerranisha Marshall was working as a cashier at her local Fresh Market and trying not to get too discouraged about the future post-high school when the universe delivered her both the complicating factor of the pandemic and a path forward. 

In August, she will be one of up to 100 new high school graduates to attend Next Level NOLA, a free program designed to provide young adults with a unique “bridge year” that school leaders hope will put them on firmer ground in pursuing their postsecondary options.