Skip to main content
Institute for Flexible Lifelong Learning

Microcredentials

Flexible learning that works for you.

Microcredentials are shorter, credit-bearing courses built to help you learn at your own pace. These flexible courses allow you to study online, in person, or a mix of both, and because they offer academic credit, you can potentially stack them together over time to work towards certifications, diplomas, or degrees.

Microcredentials by subject

Student dusting off a sarcophagus

Archaeology

Gain the training, skills and knowledge with us to make your mark in the heritage sector.

Student working on a model

Architecture

We're a leading School of Architecture making a substantial contribution to a sustainable built environment to enhance the wellbeing of present and future generations.

student with skeleton

Biosciences

Venture into the field of biological sciences, where you can make an impactful contribution to the welfare of people and the environment.

Three students standing outside of a building

Business management

Build practical business and management skills to lead teams, drive performance, and navigate change with confidence.

Chemistry

Delve into fundamental chemistry principles, exploring their significance in understanding the natural world and the sciences.

MSc Software Engineering

Computer science and informatics

We are educating and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the sought-after fields of computer science and software engineering.

Creative writing workshop

Creative writing

Build your creative writing skills and learn how to develop ideas into engaging and original work.

Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

Data and AI

Explore data and artificial intelligence, and learn how they are changing the way we work and live.

Bird's eye view of a beautiful landscape

Earth and environmental sciences

Gain the scientific knowledge and skills required to impact key environmental developments and decisions to preserve our planet for generations to come.

Students in class

Education

Develop your knowledge and skills to support learning and make a positive difference in education.

Student looking at a map

Geography and planning

Passionate about tackling global social, political, economic and development challenges to improve where and how we live? Our human geography and planning programmes are the choice for you.

Volcano erupting

Geology and geoscience

Explore the structure, evolution and dynamics of Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources. Find out how processes, such as landslides, earthquakes, floods and volcanic eruptions, change the world around us.

Students sitting in a classroom

History

Explore historic moments with us and find out what happened and why in a world shaped by our past.

A modern university classroom full of students

Journalism, media and culture

Join us to study issues such as the impact of social media, the role of corporate communications or why in the era of ‘fake news’ quality journalism matters more than ever.

Languages and linguistics

Explore how languages work and develop your understanding of language, communication and culture.

Students in a mock courtroom

Law

Join the only Russell Group university to offer the full range of academic and vocational courses in the field of law.

Literature

Read, explore and interpret literature while developing your understanding of different ideas, cultures and perspectives.

Mathematics

Our flexible mathematics courses enable you to follow your interests, develop your problem-solving skills and prepare for a variety of exciting careers.

Close up image of a guitar

Music

We offer thorough musical training and stimulating artistic and academic study in a friendly, collegiate and creative environment.

Image of students talking over coffee

Philosophy

Considering the great philosophical puzzles past and present, we'll teach you to analyse and construct complex chains of reasoning to address complicated questions from history and the here and now.

Student sitting behind a laptop

Politics and international relations

Join one of the largest Politics and International Relations departments in the UK.

Two students working in a physics lab

Physics and astronomy

We are at the forefront of some of today's most exciting scientific discoveries which will provide you with an inspiring environment in which to study.

Row of statues

Religious studies and theology

Explore the histories, cultures and beliefs of major and less well-known religious traditions, taking your pick of approaches with our richly rewarding courses.

Students having a conversation around a table

Social sciences

Study in a dynamic, interdisciplinary and innovative university with an international reputation for research excellence.

Pathways to a degree

Build your learning over time. Combine credits and progress towards a full undergraduate degree at a pace that works for you.

Explore more

Two people stand facing each other in a modern indoor corridor lined with tall, vertical wall panels. The person on the left wears a striped long-sleeve top and stands with one hand in a pocket, while the other person, wearing a dark jacket, gestures slightly while speaking. The corridor extends into the background, where a small group of three people appears blurred near a bright, open end of the space. The flooring is smooth, and the lighting combines natural daylight from the corridor opening with soft indoor illumination, creating a calm, professional atmosphere.

Before you study

Find out what you need to know before you start.

Four people sit around a wooden table in a bright indoor campus setting with large plants and warm-toned walls. In the foreground, one person faces away from the camera while three others sit opposite, engaged in conversation. On the table are a metal water bottle, a can of drink, snack packets, a smartphone, and notebooks.

For current students

Find out about study support and facilities, how to give feedback, what's expected and how to make changes to your course booking.

Community provision and awards ceremony

Community provision

Lifelong Learning has a long history of delivering courses to the local community.

“It’s never too late to start to do something you’ve been dreaming about all your life.”

Hear from students

Hamdi Abdalkareem Abdalla Abdalrhman

Hamdi Abdalkareem Abdalla Abdalrhman

Hamdi, recipient of the Shared Futures Award 2025, shares his inspiring journey from Sudan to Wales.

He pursued courses at Cardiff University to sharpen his leadership, management, and English language skills.

Ready to make an enquiry?

To find out more enquire online to request information.