Report: 93% of Students Believe Gen AI Training Belongs in Degree Programs
The vast majority of today's college students — 93% — believe generative AI training should be included in degree programs, according to a recent Coursera report. What's more, 86% of students consider gen AI the most crucial technical skill for career preparation, prioritizing it above in-demand skills such as data strategy and software development. And 94% agree that microcredentials help build the essential skills they need to achieve career success.
For its Microcredentials Impact Report 2025, Coursera surveyed more than 1,200 learners and 1,000 employers around the globe to better understand the demand for microcredentials and their impact on workforce readiness and hiring trends.
Generative AI skills are important to employers as well, the survey found. Ninety-four percent of employers believe universities should equip graduates with gen AI skills for entry-level roles, and 92% said they are more likely to hire a candidate with a gen AI microcredential than someone without one. Roughly three-quarters of employers said they would hire a less experienced candidate who had a gen AI credential over someone more experienced without one.
Despite the demand for gen AI microcredentials among both students and employers, however, only 17% of students reported earning a gen AI microcredential to date.
Other findings from the survey include:
- 89% of students said they are likely to enroll in a degree program with generative AI microcredentials, compared to one without microcredentials (36%).
- 80% of entry-level employees with micro-credentials said they enhance their day-to-day job performance and boost their skill confidence.
- 70% of entry-level employees with generative AI microcredentials said their productivity has increased, and more than 60% said they have developed better problem-solving skills.
- 74% of employers report challenges sourcing generative AI talent.
- 69% of entry-level employees would like employer-supported gen AI training; only 33% currently receive it.
The full report is available on the Coursera site (registration required).
About the Author
Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].