Since blockchain is still relatively new, there isn't a specific degree for it and not many colleges offer such courses. However there is one way to demonstrate proficiency in blockchain which is to attain certifications. Certifications are informal degrees that can be earned online. Some certificates allow you to go at your own pace while others are only offered on specific dates and feature live instructors. Certifications are generally offered by prominent entities in the industry and others by universities through extension courses, but both typically available only online. Websites like EdX offer certifications from various universities like the University of California, Berkeley. But it’s also important to keep in mind that earning a certificate from an established university does not mean that one is a matriculated student or holds a degree from that institution (one can, however, still root for their football team: Go Bears!). Other institutions, such as Blockchain Councils offer their own certifications.
Most certification courses feature various online lectures and some contain exercises to do after the videos. Often such courses teach new skills and provide chances to test one's mastery of the subject throughout the course. Then, typically there’s a final examination which will cover all the course material.
Prices for certificates may range from $100 to $5,000 depending on the depth of material, prestige of the institution, and demand for the subject matter. For example, the course offered by U.C. Berkeley on EdX is about $180 and is designed to be completed over a period of three months with the user spending putting in between three to five hours per week. This course is appropriate for those looking for a general understanding of blockchain and how it works.
There are also certifications that provide in depth technical training. One example of this is Blockchain Councils Certified Blockchain Architect. This course teaches skills such as developing network nodes and creating blockchain solutions. The site also offers certificates on how blockchain fits into various fields. These include fields like human resources, finance, healthcare, and supply chain management. Such specialization certifications cost $130 and may take anywhere from three to six hours to complete.
One notable entity in the blockchain field that will be offering just such a certification is BlockchainDriven Academy. BlockchainDriven works to help educate people on what blockchain can do and how the industry is evolving. BlockchainDriven hosts webinars with luminaries from different blockchain related fields who share their knowledge on various blockchain topics and developments, provide insights on career paths and tell their own stories. The BlockchainDriven certificate will award the recipient with respect and an acknowledgement for their accomplishment.
For those who want to go the extra mile and show their passion for blockchain, earning a certificate demonstrates experience and knowledge in this burgeoning industry and is a great way to set oneself apart from the competition.
Wouldn't it be a good idea to create a course?
