Microcredential Badges

Digital badges recognize skills and achievements earned through University of Oregon microcredential programs. More than a graphic, each badge is a portable, verifiable credential that contains information about the learning objectives, criteria met, and skills developed. Badge earners can share them on LinkedIn, resumes, email signatures, websites, and other professional platforms. 

Because UO badges travel with learners beyond the university, they also represent Oregon wherever they appear. A consistent badge system makes UO-issued credentials immediately recognizable, strengthens their connection to the university, and helps learners and employers understand that individual badges are part of a larger UO credentialing ecosystem.

UO microcredential badges should always use the approved badge system and templates rather than independently developed designs. The templates provide consistency while allowing each credential, school, college, or department to be clearly identified.

Badges are most often displayed and managed through Parchment, the UO’s badge platform formerly known as Canvas Credentials.

Anatomy of a Microcredential Badge

UO branded microcredential without level identifier
Microcredential without a competency level indicator.
UO branded microcredential with Level 1 identifier
Microcredential showing a Level 1 competency indicator

 

Every UO microcredential badge follows a common visual structure. As shown in the examples above, the system accommodates credentials both with and without competency levels while maintaining a consistent Oregon identity.

Each badge includes:

  • Competency level, when applicable. If a microcredential includes defined levels of competency, the level appears at the top of the badge. If no levels are used, this portion of the design is omitted. 
  • University identification. The University of Oregon name and logo establish the credential as UO-issued. 
  • Microcredential name. The credential name may occupy up to three lines. 
  • Issuing unit. The school or college and department awarding the credential are identified. 
  • Oregon visual identity. Approved brand colors and typography create consistency across UO-issued badges. 

Designed with Oregon in mind, the badge shape takes cues from the Hayward Field track—a nod to our running heritage and culture of forward motion.

Get a Badge Created

Start with the template—do not design a badge from scratch.

Approved UO microcredential badge templates are available through Adobe Express, part of the university’s Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. Using the templates ensures that badges issued across the university share a consistent structure and remain recognizably Oregon. 

Contact your unit’s communications representative to request access to the Adobe Express template or for assistance in creating your badge.