What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential certifies achievement of a specific and coherent set of skills and/or knowledge. Micro-credentials are created through strong evidence of need by industry, employers, iwi and/or the community. Think of them like a ‘crash course’ on the future – bringing you up to speed on what matters today but also what’s critical for a thriving future. They are designed to be done alongside your busy work and personal life, so you don’t have to take time off to study. Our Micro-credentials give you a recognised NZQA qualification. Delivered through a combination of self-directed learning and weekly live online sessions, you’ll practice and apply the knowledge and skills you learn through two practical assessments. Between 7 and 15 weeks, all micro-credentials have a set price and we run regular intakes at set times of the year.

What sort of assessments are required for micro-credentials?

Generally, a 15 credit micro-credential will comprise two summative assessments. Some assessments are individual and others may be group based to encourage collaboration with others. Assessments are about applying your learning to your practice or context - developing small plans, strategies, designing initiatives, and exploring and evaluating key concepts or ideas. All assessments will add demonstrable value to your applied knowledge of the area you’re learning in. In this micro-credential, you’ll explore contemporary innovation frameworks and evaluate their relevance to complex challenges. You’ll apply your insights by developing and presenting a practical Innovation Action Plan tailored to a real-world scenario, with a focus on achieving sustainable and equitable impact.

Can I do this course with colleagues?

Absolutely. We’ve had loads of students do the course alongside family members, friends and colleagues. There are also opportunities to work collaboratively on assessments during the programme and work together on a project of interest. Learning is always better together!

Who is this programme for?

This course is ideal for: Professionals and practitioners seeking to embed. lead or support innovation into their field Aspiring change-makers aiming to drive social, environmental, or organisational impact Entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs developing purpose-driven products, services, or solutions Leaders and managers wanting to build strategic thinking and innovation capability Graduates of the Digital Skills for the Workplace micro-credential continuing their future-focused learning journey

Can I study fully online or do I need to be able to travel to Auckland for classes?

July Delivery Model Week 1 and 9: 9:30am - 2:30pm - In-person workshop at academyEX in Auckland (online option for these days may be available for those unable to attend in person) Week 2,3,4,6,7,8 - 4:00-6:00pm - online live facilitated workshops Week 5 and 10 - no synchronous classes

Can I study and work full time at the same time?

Yes, almost all academyEX learners work full time while studying part time. The workload for micro-credentials has been developed to fit in around full time work or family commitments. The assessments are designed to be practical and linked to personal aspirations and projects.

Do I need to have technical knowledge to be able to do this programme?

Not at all. We have had many learners come into this programme with little or no knowledge of the technologies covered, and have completed the course with an understanding of the fundamental principles of the technologies and insight into how they currently impact, and will impact a range of industries and sectors into the future.

What is the time requirement for this programme?

If we look at this from a purely academic perspective, a micro-credential is worth 15 educational credits which equates to 150 hours of learning. But how much time you need to commit each week will depend on the length of the programme. This 10-week micro-credential includes an average of 15 learning hours per week. Innovation for Impact micro-credential’s blended delivery approach includes in-person and online, self-directed and directed learning activities. For the April 2026 intake, there are two in-person workshops with the remaining weeks delivered through a 90min online session. Online sessions will be recorded and whilst optional we recommend attendance where possible to get full value from the programme. If you are not able to attend the in-person workshops in Auckland, content will be made available through the Learning Management System for you to explore in your own time.

When are the next intakes?

All open intakes for this micro-credential are available in the Fees & Start dates section on this page.

When do applications close?

Applications close one week before the start date of the intake you are applying for. Applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis after the application close date at the discretion of academyEX. Please contact us if applications are closed and you would like to apply.

Fees for this micro-credential are available in the Fees & Start dates section on this page.

What are the entry requirements?

To be eligible to study on the Programme, applicants must meet the admission criteria. The high-level entry criteria as approved by NZQA are as follows: A Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent level qualification OR equivalent professional experience in a relevant field. For further information, including how to demonstrate equivalent professional experience, download our prospectus .

INNOVATION FOR IMPACT MICRO-CREDENTIAL

Put your ideas to work

Having the idea is just the start. This course helps you make it happen.

Learn how to use AI to uncover what people actually need, then design, prototype, and test solutions that work. This course gives you the step-by-step methods to turn ideas into real, working solutions. Whether you're solving problems inside your organisation or building something new, you'll learn how to innovate with purpose in an AI-enabled world. Join professionals from education, business, and public sectors who are ready to move from concept to implementation.

Available on request.

$450 NZD

Learn more about

this offer

Course duration

Complete in 10 weeks

Time commitment

Weekly classes,
Wednesdays,
3-6 hours
of directed learning

Flexible study

In-person and online delivery,
expertly facilitated

Accredited

NZQA accredited, Level 7 (15 Credits)

LEARNING OUTCOMES

What you’ll learn

AI-first approach. This micro-credential builds your capability to solve problems using AI tools and proven innovation strategies you can put to use straight away.

Move from idea to action by leveraging AI to approach challenges, designing practical solutions for tomorrow's workplace, and testing what works. You'll create a tailored action plan and build the confidence to lead innovation in an AI-driven world.

Adopt a futures mindset

Use foresight tools and horizon thinking to anticipate change and shape future-ready strategies in complex environments.

Problem-solve

Apply practical methods to break down complex challenges and develop clear, workable solutions. Learn how to move past talk and into meaningful action.

Lead effectively

Use human-centred design, systems thinking, and strategic tools to build buy-in and motivate others towards shared objectives.

Gain new perspectives

Learn how diverse worldviews - including Indigenous innovation - enhance inclusive and impactful problem-solving.

Innovate for real challenges

Choose a real-world scenario and design a practical response where innovation is needed most.

Create an action plan

Use proven frameworks to analyse issues and map out sustainable, equitable change.

Test ideas

Apply rapid prototyping and feedback loops to experiment, validate, and refine your innovation in real time.

PATHWAYS

Where this could take you

Become the expert

Grow sought-after skills like strategic thinking, creativity, and leadership to open up new roles or lead transformative projects in your current work.

Become the person who makes things happen

Lead the innovation projects others just talk about. Build your reputation as someone who delivers real solutions, not just good ideas.

Become a lifelong learner

Use this micro-credential as a springboard into further study in areas like Disruptive Tech or Leading Change for Good.

This course is ideal for:

Aspiring change-makers aiming to drive social, environmental, or organisational impact
Entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs developing purpose-driven products, services, or solutions
Leaders and managers wanting to build strategic thinking and innovation capability
Graduates of the Digital Skills for the Workplace micro-credential continuing their future-focused learning journey.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

What you need to apply

Proof of identity

You will need to provide a copy of your passport or birth certificate to confirm your personal details.

Qualifications & work experience

You need to provide proof of previous study and work experience e.g. an academic transcript, graduating certificate, or CV.

English language proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English language competence e.g. academic IELTS or PTE.
Learn more

HOW TO APPLY

Application and admissions

Step-by-step process to apply for this course:

Apply online

Choose a micro-credential that aligns with your goals and complete an application form. Make sure to submit all the required documentation so your application can be processed as quickly as possible.

Enrolment confirmed

Once your documents and application has been reviewed and approved by our team, you will be enrolled in your course and advised of next steps.

Welcome to the whānau!

You are ready to start your learning journey and join a group of like-minded, life-long learners.

FEES & START DATES

Let’s get started!

Domestic Student Fees:

$450 NZD.

International Student Fees:

Not available. Get in touch to learn more.

Available course start dates and session times:

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from our EXceptional students

I took the leap - MCOR gave me the confidence to work for myself, doing what I do best. It’s been a total life-changer.

Katie Desai

Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

For Māori and Pasifika wanting to change careers or up-skill, academyEX offers a supportive environment for your journey.

Rio Hemopo-Hunuki

Master of Technological Futures

Being future-ready is simple: hop on, or get left behind! I believe everyone has a responsibility to embrace and prepare for the future.

Lynne Miller

Master of Technological Futures

If you love ideas and you want to engage in an exciting community of people who are creating change give it a go because you have nothing to lose.

Lara Nettle

Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

academyEX is for you if you have an idea, and if you are passionate about it, and if you want the tools and network around you to actually put it together.

Simon Young

Master of Technological Futures

This was the only place where they were providing the kind of context and the information that I wanted to be really future-focused.

Dianne Rafter

Master of Technological Futures

My project focused on harnessing the power of technology through a blended learning model, aiming to transform education delivery.

Kate Lewis

Master of Contemporary Education

If you think you're too busy or tied up with work, academyEX is the place to start—no better way to expand your horizons.

Sumandana

Master of Contemporary Education

KEY INFORMATION

What you need to know

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INNOVATION FOR IMPACT MICRO-CREDENTIAL

Put your ideas to work

$450 NZD

Course duration

Time commitment

Flexible study

Accredited

LEARNING OUTCOMES

What you’ll learn

Adopt a futures mindset

Problem-solve

Lead effectively

Gain new perspectives

Innovate for real challenges

Create an action plan

Test ideas

PATHWAYS

Where this could take you

This course is ideal for:

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

What you need to apply

Proof of identity

Qualifications & work experience

English language proficiency

HOW TO APPLY

Application and admissions

Apply online

Enrolment confirmed

Welcome to the whānau!

FEES & START DATES

Let’s get started!

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from our EXceptional students

KEY INFORMATION

What you need to know

Course overview

Course requirements

Key dates

Fees and enrolments

RECOMMENDED COURSES

We think you’ll like these too

Stay in the know with regular updates from academyEX.