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Skills Library
NEW Collections in the WGU Skills Library!
The WGU Skills Library is an open resource of structured skills data leveraged to promote a more equitable skills-driven hiring and education ecosystem that enables all learners, workers, and employers to have the skills and talent necessary to thrive in a fast-moving and ever-evolving workforce. We use our skills library as a foundation for designing competencies and credentials at WGU to ensure that our programs, courses, and assessments are aligned with current and projected labor market demand. Current collections focus on occupations and specialty skill areas. As the additional collections become available regularly, be sure to bookmark this page and check them out! To view all current and upcoming skills library collections, or to provide feedback on the skills library collections, please navigate through the collections below.
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ACCESS 175+ COLLECTIONS
Our 175+ collections are easy to access and navigate. Locate a collection by the Topic/Category of your interest.
REVIEW 15,500+ RSDs
Select a collection and review its RSDs. Each collection is made up of Rich Skills Descriptors (RSDs) that address the top high-demand workforce skills.
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Each collection can be downloaded in JSON or CSV. JSON files are often used in data integration, while CSVs can be easily downloaded for further review. This downloadable file makes it easy to filter, search, and organize to meet your needs.
IMPLEMENT
Collections can be integrated into curriculum competencies or outcomes, digital credentials, job postings, and more. Check out WGU's participation in various pilots and projects as an Open Skills Network (OSN) member.
How to Use the Skills Library Collections
Navigate through the accordions below to view the Skills Library Collections currently available. To open a collection, click the link listed in the description of the collection. Click below to view a complete list of our collections
If you would like access to a comprehensive list of RSDs across all collections in the WGU Skill Library in a CSV format, please contact skillsarchitecture@wgu.edu
Skills Library Collections
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health
- Information Technology
- Law
- Specialty
The Business Administration Master collection represents the core skills necessary for professionals responsible for key leadership roles in organizations. It includes invaluable MBA skills that support the evolving business industry such as Communications, Management, Leadership, Finance, Operations, Sales, Planning, Problem Solving, Strategic thinking and Analysis, and many other valuable skills. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in business leadership and managerial roles.
The Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants Collection represent the skills required to organize a daily workload by priorities, to be able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced quickly changing environment, while taking a proactive approach to problem-solving with strong decision-making skills. This collection is designed to ensure that Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants are adept at managing up, will know how to strategically coordinate schedules, projects, meetings, and act as a time gatekeeper – ensuring their Executive can focus on their highest leverage work.
The Strategic Communications Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals in the field of communications, including Communications Specialists, Social Media Coordinators, and Content Writers. The collection includes main skill categories such as Communications, Analytical Skills, Content Creation, Social Media, Artificial Intelligence, and more. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in the field of strategic communications.
The Accountants and Auditors Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for all preparation and examination of financial documents, reports, or budgets, including advising others on business, financial, or operations matters. It covers expectations for the CIA, CMA, CFE, and CPA certifications and includes knowledge based on the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Accountants and Auditors.
The Auditing Collection encompasses the skills required for professionals responsible for conducting audits and ensuring financial integrity within an organization. It targets roles such as Auditors or Internal Auditors. This collection focuses on various auditing skills including accounting, auditing, financial analysis, internal controls, research, communications, among many other skills. It is aligned with industry standards, such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification.
The Budget Analysts Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals who are responsible for advising organizations on the details of finances, including budget reports and monitoring spending. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Cost Estimator Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for preparing cost estimates to aid management in determining or bidding on the price of a product or service. It includes the essential skills of estimators, construction estimators, and cost analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as cost estimators.
The Credit Analyst Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for gathering, reviewing, and analyzing credit and financial information. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Financial Analysts and Advisors Collection represents the skills necessary to advise businesses and individuals in decisions about money expenditure and to assess the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments. This includes certified financial planners, financial consultants, and investment advisors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as financial analysts or advisors.
The Financial Examiners Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for ensuring that all institutions handling monetary transactions are in compliance with the governing laws, including the finance and insurance industry, the federal government, or state governments. It covers expectations for the CIA, CMA, CFE, and CPA certifications and includes knowledge based on the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Financial Examiners.
The Financial Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for all financial and investment activities, including reporting, forecasting, and developing long-term financial goals and plans. It covers expectations for the CIA, CMA, CFE, and CPA certifications and includes knowledge based on the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Financial Managers.
The Financial Reporting skills collection comprises the essential skills required for professionals involved in the preparation and analysis of financial documents, reports, and budgets. This collection is targeted towards Financial Accountants, Accountants, and Auditors. It covers the skills needed for certifications such as CPA, CMA, CFA.
The Management Accounting skills collection represents the skills required to perform financial analysis, budgeting, and cost management. This includes expertise in financial reporting, variance analysis, cost allocation, and forecasting. These skills are essential for Management Accountants and Accountants and Auditors in various industries. The collection aligns with the standards for the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification.
The Purchasing Managers Collection consists of skills needed for professionals who plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services such as wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in purchasing.
The Taxation skills collection encompasses the essential skills required for Tax Examiners, Collectors and Preparers, and Revenue Agents. This collection targets skills needed to conduct tax audits, ensure compliance with tax laws, and provide accurate tax advice. It is aligned with industry standards and may be beneficial for individuals seeking relevant certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
The Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents Collection, developed with tax practitioners and hiring managers, represents valuable skills for those who examine tax returns for governmental agencies to ensure legal compliance, complete information, and accuracy. It also includes skills for those who collect underpayment of taxes or deal with delinquent tax payments. This collection of skills was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Tax Prepares Collection consists of the skills needed for certified professionals who prepare tax returns for individuals or small businesses such as tax consultants, specialists, enrollment agents, and advisors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as tax professionals.
The Compensation and Benefits Manager collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, developing, and overseeing programs that compensate employees. It includes knowledge based on the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Association for Talent Development (ATD) standards. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area. RSDs developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists Collection, developed with practitioners and hiring managers in these fields, represents valuable skills for specialists who plan, develop, and oversee programs related to employee benefits, compensation, or job analysis. It includes skills aligned to standards from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Association for Talent Development (ATD).
The Human Resource Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for managing, coordinating, and planning the human resources administrative functions of an organization. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Human Resource Managers.
The Human Resources Specialists Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for recruiting, screening, interviewing, or placing individuals within an organization. This Human Resources Specialists Collection also pertains to Corporate Recruiters, Employment Representatives, Human Resources Analysts, Human Resources Coordinators, Human Resources Generalists, and more. This collection was developed in consultation with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK) and the SHRM Body of Competency and Knowledge (BoCK). This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Human Resources Specialists.
This collection consists of skills needed to for professionals who resolve disputes between workers and managers, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, or coordinate grievance procedures to handle employee complaints such as Labor Relations Specialists, Business Agents, Business Representatives, Field Operations Coordinators, and Grievance Managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in labor relations.
This collection consists of skills for evaluating, shaping, and transforming organizational culture in a variety of industry settings to include change management, training and development, organizational development and Industrial-Organizational Psychology. This includes job titles and roles such as Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, Training and Development Specialists, Training & Development Managers, Directors of Training and Development, Organizational Development Managers, Organizational Development Coordinators, Directors of Organizational Development, Change Management Specialists, Change Management Managers, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinators, and Diversity & Inclusion Specialists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in the field of organizational leadership and psychology.
The Training and Development Manager Collection, represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, creating, developing, and overseeing training and development programs. It includes knowledge based on the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Association for Talent Development (ATD) standards. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Training and Development Specialist Collection consists of the skills needed for training professionals who design or coordinate work-related training and development programs, analyze training needs and evaluate training effectiveness to improve organizational performance. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as training and development professionals.
The Administrative Services and Facilities Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating operations and services that help an organization run efficiently. It includes administrative and facility management skills. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as administrative services managers or facilities managers.
The Business Essentials Collection represents the core skills necessary for business careers professionals. It highlights knowledge based on the fundamentals of business structures, management, managerial and financial accounting, marketing, sales, customer service, economics, information technology management, emotional and cultural intelligence, and innovative and strategic thinking among others. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in various business environments.
The Chief Executives Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for determining and formulating policies and providing overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Construction Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating activities related to the construction and maintenance of structures and facilities. This includes managers in specialized construction fields, such as electricity or plumbing as well as construction foremen and construction area managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as construction managers.
The Entertainment and Recreation Managers collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating various activities and services within the entertainment and recreation industry. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Entertainment and Recreation Managers.
The General and Operations Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. This General and Operations Managers Collection also pertains to Business Managers, General Managers, Operations Directors, Operations Managers, Plant Superintendents, and more. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as General and Operations Managers.
The Management Analysts Collection represents the skills necessary for conducting organizational studies and evaluations, designing systems and procedures, and assisting management in operating. This collection includes the responsibilities of Program Analysts and Management Consultants. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as management analysts.
This collection consists of skills for professionals who lead and manage effectively through communication, partnership and collaboration and research in non-profit organizations. This consists of job titles such as Program Managers, Clinical Supervisors, Program Directors, Directors of Nursing, Directors of Operations, Clinical Directors, and Operations Managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in Non-Profit Public Administration.
The Personal Service Managers, All Other collection, created in partnership with practitioners and hiring managers, represents necessary skills for those who manage salons, spas, fitness programs, health and wellness programs, and other similar personal services. Skills focus on customer service, relationship building, sales, business administration, management, and communications.
This collection consists of skills for specialist, managerial and leadership roles in the public sector and includes policy development, financial management, human resources, and ethical leadership. This consists of job titles such as City Manager, County Administrator, Public Policy Analyst, Public Relations Specialist, HR Manager, and Social Services Manager. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in Public Administration.
The Public Relations and Fundraising Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating activities in order to maintain a favorable public image or raise awareness and funds for an organization or client. This includes communications directors, public affairs directors, and development directors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as public relations managers or fundraising managers.
The Social and Community Service Managers Collection represents the skills necessary to plan, direct, and coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. This includes the skills needed to oversee budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. These responsibilities may also include the direction of social workers, counselors, or probation officers and applies to the roles of Adoption Services Managers, Child Welfare Services Directors, and Community Services Directors. This collection was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as social and community service managers.
The Advertising and Promotions Managers collection represents the skills necessary to plan, direct, or coordinate advertising policies and programs. Additionally, this collection includes the skills needed to produce collateral materials, such as posters, contests, coupons, or giveaways, to create interest in a product or service. These skills may be applicable to Account Executives, Advertising Managers, Communications Directors, and Promotion Directors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as advertising and promotions managers.
The Digital Marketing Skills Collection represents the cutting edge and nuanced skills of the increasingly in-demand field of digital marketing. This collection offers a wide range of specialized, technical, creative, and soft skills, from digital marketing analytics and data visualization to critical thinking and social media, offering the full context and flexibility of how these diverse skills integrate with one another in the workforce to inform well-rounded and adept digital marketers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in Digital Marketing.
The Marketing Managers skills collection represents the skills necessary to plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, determine the demand for products and services including the goal of maximizing company profits and overseeing product development or monitoring trends. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as marketing managers and supervisors.
The Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for analyzing consumer trends and preferences, measuring the effectiveness of business strategies, conducting surveys, and preparing research reports including the assessment of potential sales of a product or service. It covers expectations for the CIA, CMA, CFE, and CPA certifications and includes knowledge based on the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists.
The Online Communication Skills Collection consists of the skills needed for professionals responsible for creating and supporting advertising and marketing campaigns on social media platforms and evaluating trends through digital marketing analytics and data visualization techniques. This includes marketing managers, brand managers, marketing specialists, marketing coordinators, and market research analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in marketing.
This collection consists of skills needed for professionals who perform and improve written, oral, visual, and digital communication in various workplace settings. This includes Research Analysts, Marketing Specialists, Public Relations Managers, Communications Officers, Communications Specialists, and Media Relations Specialists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in professional communication.
The Sales Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and directing the sales teams at an organization. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Sales Managers.
The Business Operations Specialists, All Other Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for managing workflows across the organization, streamlining day-to-day activities, and improving business performance across the board. Additionally, this collection covers a wide range of skills representing “All Other” titles within the occupation. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Business Operations Specialists.
The Industrial Production Managers Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products. This includes Area Plant Managers, Manufacturing Coordinators, and Assembly Managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as industrial production managers or area plant managers.
The Logisticians Collection represents the skills necessary to analyze and coordinate the ongoing logistical functions of an organization. These skills demonstrate the responsibility for the product’s life cycle, including acquisition, distribution, allocation, delivery, and disposal of resources. This collection includes the responsibilities of Production Planners and Client Services Administrators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as logisticians.
The Project Management Specialists Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for coordinating and managing details of projects including staffing, resources, budget, and schedules. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Project Management Specialists.
The Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers Collection represent the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning, directing, or coordinating transportation, storage, or distribution activities based on organizational policies and applicable laws or regulations. Additionally, this collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Product and Experience Design Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals in roles such as Product Managers, UX Designers, Customer Experience Managers, Product Analysts, Experience Designers, Product Development Managers, and others. It includes skills such as Research, Communications, Innovation, New Product Development, Prototyping, Problem Solving, and UX/UI Design. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in the field of product and experience design.
The Retail Sales Associate Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for providing excellent customer service and helping customers make informed purchasing decisions in a retail setting. This collection includes knowledge based on best practices for successful customer relations, sales techniques, and product knowledge. It also includes an understanding of retail management, inventory control, and merchandising principles. Additionally, it covers the ability to use technology and other tools to process sales transactions, manage customer accounts, and keep accurate records.
The Retail Sales Manager Collection is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and expertise to manage a retail sales team. It provides a comprehensive set of skills to manage the day-to-day operations of the store, maintain strong customer service standards, and ensure the highest level of sales productivity. This collection includes knowledge on best practices for leading a successful sales team, developing effective sales strategies, and performance management. It also covers an understanding of retail marketing, product knowledge, inventory control, and merchandising principles. Additionally, this collection provides the ability to use technology and other tools to create sales reports, manage customer accounts, and track store performance.
The Business Ethics Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals to anticipate, identify and handle ethical principles and moral or ethical problems that can arise in a business environment including making good ethical decisions and applying strategies to mitigate them. It covers a diverse range of skills, from applied ethics and communications to corporate social responsibility and strategic planning,
This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in various business functions in an organization.
The Career Coaching collection represents necessary skills for career coaches and career navigators. It highlights skills in interpersonal relations, case management, research, job search strategies, career development, and career management. Many skills relate to the International Coaching Federation standards as well as industry coaching certifications.
The Entrepreneurs Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for creating, launching, and leading successful businesses, including entrepreneurs, business strategists, business owners, and business consultants. This collection includes knowledge based on best practices for developing and maintaining a successful enterprise, from start-up to growth and beyond.
The Education Administrators, All Other Collection curates necessary skills for educational administrators in a variety of industries and fields, including education support, science and health education administration, and museums or libraries. This skills collection was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts of education administrators and those who supervise them.
The Educational Administration and Leaders: K-12 collection, developed with practitioners and hiring managers, represents the necessary skills for qualified K-12 leaders and administrators. It includes skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards.
The Education Administrators and Leaders: Postsecondary Collection curates valuable skills for higher-education leaders at all levels and across various roles, such as admissions and student services to department chairs, and business operations. It includes skills aligned to the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC): Competencies for Community College Leaders. The collection was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts of administrators and leaders across the higher education sector.
The Higher Education Mid-Level Leaders collection represents valuable skills for mid-level leaders in a postsecondary setting. It includes skills aligned to the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) and to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC): Competencies for Community College Leaders. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts that included mid-level leaders across the higher education sector and those who supervise them.
The Instructional Design: Adult Education and Training Collection represent the necessary skills for instructional coordinators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including instructional coordinators, instructional designers, learning development specialists, and curriculum coordinators.
The Instructional Design: K-12 Collection represent the necessary skills for instructional coordinators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including instructional coordinators, instructional designers, learning development specialists, and curriculum coordinators.
The Curriculum and Instruction collection represents specialized skills and learning in both curriculum design and instructional planning. These are both rooted in theory and developed through practice with an added focus on learning science, diverse populations, and educational research. The Curriculum and Instruction Collection provides a robust skillset both in focus and depth that is respected and recognized by industry leaders. The collection was developed in partnership with experts in the field of K12 education ensuring skills are impactful in various educational environments.
This skills collection, based on the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Knowledge and Practice Standards for Reading, provides skills for educators who work with K-12 students with dyslexia and other struggling readers. The collection includes skills required for those who work in literacy and language education for struggling readers. It also integrates skills based on Science of Reading principles, including structured literacy instruction that is explicit, systematic, and sequential.
This skills collection is based on the National Association for Educating Young Children (NAEYC) standards, which align to InTASC. It provides skills for educators who work in early childhood education, including skills relating to child development and learning, teacher-family partnerships, educational observation and assessment, effective teaching practices, academic content, and professionalism.
The Elementary and Middle School Teachers Collection represents the necessary skills for qualified teachers in an elementary or middle school setting. It includes skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including elementary and middle school teacher hiring managers and employees.
The K12 Competency-Based Education skills collection references frameworks such as the Institute of Education Sciences CBE Mastery and Utah’s Personalized Competency-Based Education. It includes skills related to evaluation, learning strategies, instructional strategies, and instructional design in a competency-based K12 learning environment.
The Literacy Instruction K12 collection, based on the International Literacy Association (ILA) standards, is a comprehensive collection for educators who apply essential knowledge and skills to enhance literacy and language education. It emphasizes research and evidence-based practices that encompass reading, writing, speaking, and listening; and the building of literacy-rich learning environments that address students' diverse needs.
The Literacy Professionals collection, based on the International Literacy Association (ILA) standards for literacy professionals, is a guide for reading/literacy specialists and literacy coaches who apply essential knowledge and skills required for their role in literacy and language education. These skills emphasize research and evidence-based practices for all aspects of literacy, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This resource enables literacy professionals to foster inclusive, literacy-rich learning environments.
This collection, aligned to the National Standards for Quality Online Teaching (NSQ) standards, equips educators, curriculum developers, and education stakeholders with the essential skills for online learning. This resource covers topics such as online pedagogy, learner engagement, and digital citizenship, which allow educators to create inclusive digital learning environments that foster independent learning while complying with legal and ethical standards.
The Other Teachers and Instructors Collection represents the necessary skills for teachers or instructors of Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language (ESL). It includes some skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who worked as or supervised adult educators or ESL instructors.
The Postsecondary Educators Collection represents the necessary skills for teachers in a postsecondary institution. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including postsecondary full-time professors, adjunct instructors, and supervisors.
The Preschool and Kindergarten Teachers Collection represents the necessary skills for qualified teachers in an early childhood setting. It includes skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including early childhood teacher hiring managers and employees.
This skills collection is based on the Science of Learning Guidelines and incorporates research from Science of Learning and Development Alliance resources. The collection provides evidence-based teaching skills grounded in cognitive science, neuroscience, and psychology research about how people learn and develop.
The Secondary School Teachers Collection represents the necessary skills for qualified teachers in a secondary school setting. It includes skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including secondary school teachers and supervisors.
The Special Education Teachers Collection represents the necessary skills for qualified teachers in Special Education. It includes skills aligned to CEC (the Council for Exceptional Children), AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including special education teachers and supervisors.
This collection, based on CAST's Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, provides skills for teachers, curriculum developers, and others who want to improve learner access and participation in meaningful, challenging learning experiences. The collection focuses on three main areas: Multiple Means of Engagement, Multiple Means of Representation, and Multiple Means of Action and Expression.
The Core Teaching Standards collection represents valuable skills for educators in various educational settings. It includes skills aligned with the InTASC Model Core Teaching Standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts that included teacher leaders and hiring managers across the education sector.
The Education Preparation Standards collection represents valuable skills for the preparation of educators in various educational settings. It includes skills aligned with AAQEP system based on four standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts that included education leaders and hiring managers across the education sector.
The Educational Technology Standards collection, developed with subject matter experts, provides skills that focus on the effective use of technology in education in ways that create high-impact, sustainable, and equitable learning experiences. The collection represents skills aligned to the seven areas of ISTE Educator Standards: learner, leader, citizen, collaborator, designer, facilitator, and analyst.
The Librarians and Media Collection Specialists Collection represents the necessary skills for qualified librarians and media collections specialists who administer and maintain libraries or collections of information for public or private access in educational institutions, museums, and corporations. It includes skills aligned to AAQEP, InTASC, and ISTE standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including librarians, media collections specialists, and those who supervise them.
The Character Core collection provides an intentional focus on developing character skills in educational and workplace settings to cultivate healthy learning and working environments where all individuals can collectively contribute to thriving communities. The collection was developed through the support of the Kern Family Foundation and the collaborative efforts of experts in the character field.
The Educational Research Collection contains skills necessary to search, organize, and evaluate information on a topic. These skills align with the deepening of knowledge in a chosen field and include problem-solving, analysis, communication, and collaboration. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who support educational research.
The Next Generation Teaching Collection is comprised of skills based on the art and science of teaching and leading in education to support future generations. The skills advance the practice, programs, and technology that support students on their education pathways. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as educators and administrators in the education field.
The Environmental Engineers Collection represents the skills necessary to research, design, plan, or perform engineering responsibilities in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards. These responsibilities include those for waste treatment, site remediation, and pollution control. This collection includes the skills necessary for Air Pollution Control Engineers, Engineering Consultants, Hazardous Substances Engineers, and Sanitary Engineers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as environmental engineers.
The Industrial Engineers, including Health and Safety Collection represents the skills necessary to design, develop, test, and evaluate integrate systems for managing industrial production processes and product coordination. Additionally, this collection includes the skills necessary to promote worksite or product safety. This collection includes the responsibilities of Continuous Improvement Engineers, Facilities Engineers, and Health and Safety Specialists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as industrial engineers or health and safety engineers.
The Community Health Workers collection was created for health care professionals to engage and teach groups or individuals in the community how to adopt health behaviors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as community health workers. This collection of skills was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
This collection consists of skills for professionals who provide individuals and families with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses including advising family caregivers and patient counseling. These professionals may also provide case and care management, or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and work in the field as Clinical Social Workers, Hospice Social Workers, LMSWs (Licensed Master Social Workers), Medical Social Workers, Nephrology Social Workers, Oncology Social Workers, Psychosocial Coordinators, Renal Social Workers, and Social Work Case Managers. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in Healthcare Social Work.
The Population Health skills collection was created for health care professionals to reference and search specific skills related to the health outcomes of a group of individuals. This collection was creates with assistance from Leavitt School of Health at WGU. Not associated ted with a SOC Code (Program based for collection development and categorical search).
The Public Health Professional collection represents the skills needed to teach people about conditions affecting well-being and promote wellness by helping people adopt healthy behaviors. Additionally, this collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in these roles.
This collection consists of skills for professionals who counsel individuals to maximize the independence and employability for those coping with personal, social, and vocational difficulties that result from birth defects, illness, disease, accidents, and aging. These professionals may also assess client needs and coordinate activities for residents of care and treatment facilities while implementing rehabilitation programs for counseling, training, and job placement and working as an Employment Advisor, Employment Services Case Manager, Employment Specialist, Human Services Care Specialist, Job Coach, Rehabilitation Counselor, Rehabilitation Specialist, Vocational Case Manager, Vocational Placement Specialist, and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC).This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in rehabilitation.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors collection was created for health care professionals who advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, addictions, or depression. behaviors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as community health workers. This collection of skills was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Psychology Skills collection is a comprehensive group of skills based on the guidelines of the American Psychological Association (APA). These skills offer a set of proficiencies developed in partnership with subject matter experts in psychology. It includes skills vital to the field including ethical research, evidence-based interventions, empathetic communication, psychometric assessment, and continuous professional growth. This collection aligns with the expertise of those within the discipline but is also a foundation for navigating the outcomes of an undergraduate psychology major.
The Care Coordination collection was created for health care professionals to reference and search specific skills related to the health outcomes of a group of individuals. This collection was created with assistance from Leavitt School of Health at WGU.
The Healthcare Leadership Collection represents the skills necessary to plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. This includes the responsibilities appointed to Healthcare Executives. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in healthcare leadership and has been aligned to the standards set by the American College of Healthcare Executives.
The Medical and Health Services Managers collection represents the skills needed to plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers. It includes knowledge based on the NCLEX standards and expectations of the American Nurses Association (ANA) for registered nurses. Additionally, this collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as medical and health services managers.
The Dental Hygienists Collection represents the necessary skills for dental hygienists, ranging from skills related to dental cleanings and treatment plans, HIPPA and medical records, and communicating with patients and colleagues. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as dental hygienists and or have supervised them.
The Health Informatics collection represents valuable skills needed by informaticians. It includes skills aligned to the HIMSS, AMIA, and ANCC informatics certification exams. This collection of skills was curated in partnership with informatics subject matter experts and workforce needs required for entry to mid-level informatics roles.
The Health Science Professional collection represents the skills needed for individuals in multiple healthcare roles that identify health problems and outcomes, and how they are connected to the natural and behavioral sciences. Additionally, this collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in these roles.
The Nurse Educators collection, created in partnership with practitioners and hiring managers, consists of necessary skills for nurse educators in a variety of settings. It includes skills aligned to the National League for Nursing (NLN) Competencies for Clinical Educators and Competencies for Academic Nurses, Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Competencies from AACN, and National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) National Task Force (NTF) Criteria for Evaluation.
The Nurse Practitioner Collection represents the skills needed to diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness. It includes knowledge based on the NCLEX standards and expectations of the American Nurses Association (ANA) for registered nurses. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as nurse practitioners as hiring managers and employees.
The Opticians, Dispensing collection, represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible to design, measure, fit, and adapt lenses and frames for client according to written optical prescription or specification. This collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Optometrists Collection represents the skills necessary to diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. It includes the skills needed to examine eyes, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. This collection includes the responsibilities of Optometry Doctors and Therapeutic Optometrists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as optometrists.
The Pharmacy Technicians collection represents the skills needed to dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as pharmacy technicians.
The Registered Nurse Collection represents the skills necessary to provide and coordinator care, educate patients and communities about personal and public healthcare matters and provide information and support to patients and their families. It includes knowledge based on the NCLEX standards and expectations of the American Nurses Association (ANA) for registered nurses. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as registered nurses.
The Respiratory Therapists Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. It includes knowledge based on the CoARC standards and expectations of the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) for a respiratory specialist. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as respiratory therapists and supervisors.
The Nursing Standards of Practice Collection represents the skills which a health professional is competent to perform according to the terms of professional licensure. These skills identify the promotion, facilitation, and advocacy practices for a positive patient outcome and they are aligned to the ANA Scope of Practice Standards. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including Registered Nurses.
The Dental Assistants Collection represents the necessary skills for dental assistants. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as dental assistants or have supervised them.
The Home Health and Personal Care Aides collection represents essential skills for those working as home health or personal care aides. The collection was developed in partnership with those who work in this field and those who supervise them.
The Medical Assistants Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for performing administrative and clinical duties in medical offices or clinics. It includes the essential skills of certified medical assistants. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as medical assistants.
The Nursing Assistant Collection represents the skills needed to assist healthcare professionals in providing basic patient care and helping patients with daily living activities. It includes knowledge based on the NCLEX standards and expectations of the American Nurses Association (ANA) for registered nurses. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as nursing assistants.
This collection consists of skills needed for professionals who record drugs delivered to the pharmacy, store incoming merchandise, communicate stock needs, accept prescriptions for filling and may operate a cash register. This includes Certified Pharmacist Assistant, Drug Purchaser, Front Counter Clerk, Pharmacist Assistant, Pharmacy Aide, Pharmacy Ancillary, Pharmacy Assistant, Pharmacy Cashier, and Pharmacy Clerk. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in pharmacy settings.
The Medical Records Specialists Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible in compiling, processing, and maintaining medical records of hospital and clinical patients. This includes medical coders and the ability to classify medical and healthcare concepts into the healthcare industry’s numerical coding system. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as medical coders or record specialists and supervisors.
The Value-Based Care Skills Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for improving and managing the quality of care based on specific measures and concepts including insurance regulations, reimbursement procedures, risk management, strategic planning, operations management, and health information technology. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as health care professionals.
The Cloud Computing and System Administration Collection represents the skills necessary to maintain the infrastructure and functionality of a company's cloud structures as well as the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems. This includes the responsibilities of information analysts, information systems managers, and network administrators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as cloud computing and system administrators.
The Data Engineer Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for creating and maintaining databases and their architecture. It includes programming, data warehousing, data visualization, and cloud computing skills.
This collection represents the necessary skills for Data Analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Data Scientist Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for transforming raw data into useful information by developing and implementing techniques or analytics applications. It includes data mining, data modeling, and machine learning skills. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as data scientists.
The Foundations for Data Science and Analytics represents entry-level skills for professionals working in data science and data analytics careers and the requirements for graduate-level education for those transitioning from non-data analytics or data science careers.
The Database Administrators and Architects Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for creating or organizing systems used to store and secure various data. It includes the essential skills of database analysts, database developers, and database coordinators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as database administrators and architects.
The Computer and Information Analysts Collection represents the necessary skills for Computer and Information Analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Computer and Information Research Scientists Collection represents the necessary skills for Computer and Information Research Scientists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Computer User Support Specialists collection represents the necessary skills for Computer User Support Specialists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Information Technology Management Skills Collection comprises a comprehensive set of skills necessary for professionals who are responsible for overseeing and managing IT operations within a business setting. This collection reflects the diverse skill set required to effectively leverage technology and drive organizational success. This collection was developed with hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Leadership in Technology collection was created for professionals in the technology field to reference and search specific skills related to leadership in their industry.
The Operations Research Analysts Collection represents the necessary skills for Operations Research Analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Computer and Information Systems Managers collection reflects the skills necessary for professionals responsible for managing, planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities in an organization. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Computer and Information Systems Managers as well as those hiring for that role.
The Computer Network Architects Collection represents the skills necessary to design and implement computer and information networks by performing network modeling, analysis, and planning, including those of capacity needs for network infrastructures. This includes the responsibilities of design engineers, network and security engineers, and telecommunications analysts. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as computer network architects.
This collection represents the necessary skills for Computer Network Support Specialists. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Network and Computer Systems Administrators Collection reflects the skills necessary for Network and Computer Systems Administrators. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as hiring managers and employees in the occupational area.
The Network Security Analysts Collection represents the skills necessary to plan, implement, upgrade, and monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks. This includes the skills necessary to ensure appropriate security controls and to safeguard vital files and infrastructure. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as network security analysts.
The Network Technician Collection represents skills necessary for professionals who are responsible for supporting, installing, configuring, and troubleshooting computer networks. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with subject matter experts who have worked in computer networking.
The Cybersecurity Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for securing computer systems and networks against unauthorized access. It includes knowledge based on the NICE Framework. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in cybersecurity.
The Information Systems Security Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for planning and maintaining security measures that protect computer information and networks. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in the information systems security field.
The Security Architect Collection represents skills necessary for professionals who are responsible for designing secure systems and networks. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with subject matter experts who have worked as security architects.
The Security Engineer Collection represents the skills necessary to develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. It includes the skills needed to build and maintain security systems and technology as well as design security controls. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as security engineers.
The Computer Programmers collection reflects the skills necessary for professionals responsible for writing, modifying, and testing code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Computer Programmers and those who hire for these roles.
The Computer Science collection represents the skills necessary to conceive, design, and oversee computer systems, applications, and software development projects. This includes the skills needed to address coding challenges, optimize algorithms, and ensure the functioning of digital technologies. These skills may be applicable to Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Systems Architects, and IT Directors. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as computer scientists.
The Full Stack Engineers Collection represents skills necessary for professionals who design, test, and implement both back-end and front-end software for web-based and other applications. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with subject matter experts who have worked as full stack engineers.
The Miscellaneous Engineers collection represents the skills within engineering occupations that encompass a wide range of characteristics. These skills include those that perform the role of Mechatronics Engineers, Robotics Engineers, Microsystems Engineers, Photonics Engineers, and Nanosystems Engineers. This collection was developed in partnership with subject matter experts who have worked in a miscellaneous field of engineering.
The Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers collection reflects the skills necessary for professionals responsible for designing computer applications or programs as well as identifying problems with applications or programs and reporting defects. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers as well as those hiring for those roles.
The Software Engineer Collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for designing software solutions aligned with industry standards and rapidly changing business needs. It includes programming and software development skills. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as software engineers.
The Systems Engineers Collection represents the essential skills required for professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex systems and processes to ensure seamless integration and operation within organizations. This collection covers a broad range of skills, including computer science, system architecture, operating systems, scripting, automation, communication, problem solving, and planning. Developed in collaboration with experienced systems engineers, the Systems Engineers Collection aims to provide a comprehensive skill set for those pursuing a career in this critical field.
This collection consists of skills needed for professionals who design digital user interfaces or websites, develop and test layouts, and ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. This includes technology applications engineers, web developers, web design specialists, web architects, and webmasters. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in web and digital design.
The Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters Collection represents the skills necessary to test the safety of structures using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic, or related equipment. Additionally, this collection includes the skills required to build or maintain optical or fiber optic equipment. This collection includes the responsibilities of non-destructive testing specialists and photonics technicians. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as engineering technologists and technicians.
The Forensic Science Technicians collection consists of the skills needed for professionals who collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence such as fiber, hair, and tissue related to criminal investigations. These professionals might also testify as an expert witness on evidence or crime laboratory techniques and are commonly known as Crime Laboratory Analyst, Crime Scene Analyst, Crime Scene Technician, CSI (Crime Scene Investigator), Evidence Technician, Forensic Science Examiner, Forensic Scientist, Forensic Specialist, Latent Fingerprint Examiner, and Latent Print Examiner. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have experience with Forensic Science.
The First-Line Supervisors of Law Enforcement Workers Collection represents the skills necessary to directly supervise and coordinate the activities of correctional officers, jailers, and members of police force. This collection includes the responsibilities of Correctional Officer Captains, Correctional Supervisors, and Police Captains. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as first-line supervisors of law enforcement workers.
This collection consists of skills for professionals who enforce local, tribal, state, or federal laws and ordinances while performing duties such as patrolling a specific area, directing traffic, issuing traffic summonses, investigating accidents, apprehending and arresting suspects, or serving legal processes of courts. This includes the job titles of Deputy, Deputy Sheriff, Law Enforcement Officer, Patrol Deputy, Patrol Officer, Peace Officer, Police Officer, Police Patrol Officer, Public Safety Officer, and State Trooper. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in law enforcement.
The Bailiffs, Correctional Officers, and Jailers collection represents the skills needed to oversee individuals who have been arrested, sentenced to serve time in jail or prisons, or to maintain safety in courtrooms. Additionally, this collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in these roles.
The Detectives and Criminal Investigators collection represents the skills needed to conduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws. Additionally, this collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as detectives and/or criminal investigators.
This collection includes fundamental skills covering concepts and principles of artificial intelligence. From technical skills such as machine learning, and large language models to common skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethics and responsibility surrounding AI. This collection covers the skills necessary to navigate an AI-powered world.
The Conversational AI Operationalization Skills Collection encompasses the fundamental skills necessary for individuals in the field of operationalizing conversational artificial intelligence. This collection reflects the abilities required to successfully implement and integrate conversational AI solutions across diverse business contexts. It encompasses key areas such as conversational AI project management, data preprocessing and management, model development and deployment, performance monitoring and assessment, and ethical considerations in conversational AI implementation.
This collection includes essential skills for utilizing generative AI technologies, along with the effective application of pre-existing tools and models. As this field is under continual evolution, this collection will be updated to maintain alignment with the latest advancements in technology and requisite skill sets.
The Operationalizing AI Collection encompasses the essential competencies required for individuals involved in the field of operationalizing artificial intelligence. This collection equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement and integrate AI solutions into various business operations. It covers a wide range of topics, including AI project management, data preparation and management, model development and deployment, performance monitoring and evaluation, and ethical considerations in AI implementation.
The Prompt Engineering Collection encompasses the essential competencies required for individuals involved in the field of prompt engineering. This collection equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize and design effective prompts for various applications and AI systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including prompt selection, construction, and refinement techniques, as well as considerations for ethical guidelines, user experience, and industry standards.
The Prompt Engineering for Course Designers collection encompasses a comprehensive set of skills required for professionals tasked with designing courses and educational content. This collection equips course designers with the knowledge and expertise needed to optimize the performance of AI models through effective prompt engineering. It is designed based on industry standards and best practices, ensuring that course designers possess the necessary skills to deliver high-quality, contextually-aware AI model responses.
This collection consists of skills needed for professionals in the workforce who adapt to demands of the job market and thrive in career pathways. This collection of skills was created in partnership with those who are experienced in career and workforce readiness.
The Career Readiness: Character, Diversity-Equity-Inclusion (DEI), and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) skills collection is specifically designed to enhance workplace and career management success by curating the most sought-after skills by employers. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies were also referenced in the curation of this skill collection.
This collection lists Character skills specifically designed to enhance workplace and career management success. Character skills are essential attributes that contribute to an individual's integrity, ethical behavior, and professionalism in various professional settings. Employers highly value these traits as they are indicative of an individual's reliability, honesty, and accountability. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies were referenced in the curation of the Character Career Readiness skill collection.
The Professional Development and Career Management Collection provides the essential skills needed to help individuals manage their career and develop their professional abilities. This collection includes skills related to professional development, career planning, setting goals, creating a resume, job searching, networking, interviewing, and negotiating. Additionally, the collection covers the use of technology to research potential employers and industry trends, create and maintain a professional online presence, market oneself effectively, and manage communication and relationships in professional situations.
Transferable Skills for Leaders is a comprehensive collection of soft skills specifically designed for leaders in any industry. This collection focuses on the development of highly transferable skills that are essential for success in any leadership role. It includes skills for communication, teamwork, problem solving, decision-making, strategic planning, emotional intelligence, relationship building, and managing a diverse organization. These foundational skills will enable leaders to lead with confidence, inspire their teams, and make sound decisions in any situation.
The Caregiver Collection represents the skills acquired and cultivated by individuals with prior experience as caretakers, homemakers, family caregivers, or household managers. This collection showcases the transferable skills gained outside the workplace and their relevance in professional settings. This collection showcases their proficiency in critical thinking and problem solving, project management and collaboration, and initiative and responsibility. It was developed in collaboration with a panel of individuals who have previously served as caregivers, domestic caregivers, or primary caregivers.
This collection lists Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion skills specifically designed to enhance workplace and career management success. Additionally, Career Readiness Skills are directly linked to the most sought-after skills by employers. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies were referenced in the curation of the DEI Career Readiness skill collection.
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I): General Collection curates essential DEI skills that can be incorporated in product offerings. For instance, many skills focus on self-exploration, reflection, and personal growth towards the acceptance and appreciation of differences. It was developed in collaboration with internal and external subject-matter DE&I experts.
The collection represents proficiencies essential for ethical, rigorous human subjects research. The skills are aligned with Institutional Review Board (IRB) standards and developed in collaboration with subject matter experts with specialized knowledge of IRB standards, reflecting a commitment to regulatory compliance and ethical standards in research practices.
The Lead Skills Architect collection represents the skills necessary for professionals responsible for providing insight into current workforce skill demand. As innovators of open skill access, adoption, and use, this collection includes skills related to communications, data literacy, and problem solving. This collection of skills was developed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked as Lead Skills Architects.
As a Senior Research Analyst, professionals are expected to demonstrate competence in analyzing data, delivering impactful presentations, and leveraging data sources for project implementation. The role also involves conducting original research, developing business metrics, and engaging in strategic decision-making processes. The Analyst is required to maintain a solution-oriented approach, consider different perspectives, and demonstrate a willingness to learn actively. This skill set was designed in partnership with a panel of subject matter experts, including experienced research analysts and data strategists.
The Senior Skills Strategy Consultant collection consists of a diverse range of skills including leadership, strategic thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, communication, project management, and data analysis. The senior consultant leverages a diverse range of essential skills to actively cultivate relationships, coordinate with diverse stakeholders, adapt to new situations, provide insights from data analysis, and inspire change initiatives. Their role is critical in driving organizational growth and achieving strategic objectives. This collection was designed in partnership with a panel of subject-matter experts and practitioners, including experienced consultants and skill strategists.
The Skills Architecture collection represents the skills necessary to innovate open skills access, adoption, and use. Additionally, this collection includes the skills needed to analyze, communicate, and transform labor market insights by collaborating with learners, employers, and content creators. This collection of skills was developed with a panel of subject matter experts who have worked in Skills Architecture.
This collection lists Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) skills specifically designed to enhance our success in the workplace and career management. These skills encompass various SEL subsets, including Social Awareness, Executive Function, Interpersonal Communication, Self-Management, and Self-Awareness. Additionally, Career Readiness Skills are directly linked to the most sought-after skills by employers and are closely correlated with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies.
A subset of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General collection, this collection specifically targets the domain of executive function and responsible decision making. Executive Function skills are the higher-order mental processes that enable us to manage complex tasks, such as organizing and planning, remembering information, problem-solving, regulating emotions, and controlling cognitive flexibility. Executive function skills are essential to our ability to think critically, adapt to change and persist. Developing our executive function skills contributes to our ability to make responsible decisions and achieve our goals.
The Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General Collection was directed by a WGU initiative to systematically thread skills throughout the student lifecycle that develop success-oriented mindsets towards academic, professional, and personal goals. This collection contains people-centered skills that develop an individual’s capacity to understand and manage oneself while also building healthy and supportive relationships with others. The SEL: General Collection was developed in collaboration with subject-matter experts, SEL industry groups with recognized SEL competencies and requirements, and benchmarks from leading universities and other institutions of learning.
A subset of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General collection, this collection specifically targets the domain of interpersonal communication. Interpersonal Communication is the exchange of information and ideas between two or more people, either verbally or nonverbally. The ability to effectively communicate with others in various situations, using a variety of approaches and media, is essential in our day-to-day interactions. Developing our interpersonal communication skills helps us approach situations with other people and teams with confidence and clarity.
A subset of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General collection, this collection specifically targets the domain of self-awareness. This is the foundational building block for effective social and emotional learning, positive psychology, personal growth, and professional development. It is the conscious and clear perception and understanding of our own personality, feelings, thoughts, emotions, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, character, desires, and motivation. The more we are self-aware, the better we can understand other people's perceptions, attitudes, and mindsets.
A subset of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General collection, this collection specifically targets the domain of self management. Self-Management is the ability to accept responsibility, be accountable for, and effectively manage our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Self-management skills are critical for getting things done and taking control of our life. They utilize strategies and mindsets that help us become organized, efficient, and effective in our endeavors. Self-management is the roadmap for our personal and professional success.
A subset of the Social Emotional Learning (SEL): General collection, this collection specifically targets the domain of social awareness. Social Awareness skills are essential for adapting to diverse workplace environments and communities. These skills allow us to engage, react, and respond in a variety of social situations by understanding the complex needs of others. Socially aware individuals are able to appropriately modify their behavior and apply effective interpersonal communication strategies to achieve the most optimal outcomes in a variety of social contexts.
Foundational Literacies offers a comprehensive collection of traditional and emergent literacy skills that reflect the fundamental knowledge and abilities required of individuals and societies in today’s connected, multifaceted, and technology-driven world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Skill collections can easily be located on our site as they have been categorized by industry, and within each industry, you will find specialty areas. After locating the specialty area of your interest, you will find a list of collection titles that are more specifically related to occupations, job titles, and/or specialized and common workforce skill clusters.
WGU skills architects source Rich Skill Descriptors (RSDs) from different inputs, such as databases for job profiles and the labor market (e.g., Lightcast and O*Net), the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and industry/academic standards or frameworks. They are also informed by industry certifications and licenses, job profiles and data, employer insights, industry and academic standards, and other relevant resources. Once Rich Skill Descriptors are developed in collaboration with industry subject matter experts or WGU’s strategic partnerships, they are housed on WGU's instance of the Open Skills Management Tool (OSMT).
The Open Skills Management Tool (OSMT) modernizes and streamlines the process of creating, sharing, and accessing Rich Skill Descriptors (RSDs.) OSMT allows WGU to share its skills collections with everyone and provides the opportunity for the general public to use collections for their own efforts. To learn more about OSMT, click here.
Yes! WGU is happy to discuss partnership opportunities to create customized skill collections. Please visit the Strategic Skills Partnership site for more information.
The Skills Library is primed for innovation! It can help higher education institutions create skills-denominated digital badges, professional development departments align curriculum to workforce relevant skills, HR managers author more effective job descriptions, and educators build curricular and career pathways. This is just the beginning! As we mentioned above, this is a tool meant for collaboration—the more it is used and refined, the more opportunities it can create.
Your feedback isn't just important; it's essential to the growth of the Skills Library! These collections depend on collaboration and community nurturing to grow to their fullest potential. We want the collections to be the best representations of the skills they describe and to reflect all different areas of expertise. Your feedback informs which collections will be released next, what new skill categories can be described with new RSDs, where RSDs can align to Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes, and more. This takes more than WGU—it takes you! Please email wici@wgu.edu to share your feedback about our skills library.
A skill represents knowledge, abilities, or learned behaviors described in a short, verb-driven phrase that communicates discrete, discernable value an individual can demonstrate or acquire.
A Rich Skill Descriptor is an enriched definition of a skill that includes a contextualized skill statement and other associated metadata that enables the interoperability of skills across digital platforms. The metadata is a set of information that travels with the skill statement as part of the RSD package that allows the RSD to be read and processed quickly by computers.
A skills collection is a thematic grouping of Rich Skill Descriptors (RSDs) created for a given purpose. In higher education, a collection may represent careers aligned to a particular field of study or academic program to inform skills-based curriculum development. Employers may group collections for specific job roles to inform crafting skills-based job descriptions.
A skills library is a centralized and structured compiling of skills data, qualifications, and attributes that helps to create a unified understanding of skills for an organization in areas of employment need, curriculum development, job architecture, or competency grouping. At WGU, we use our skills library to inform competencies in our educational model. This approach to designing content ensures our courses are reflective of current and projected labor market demands.
Western Governors University’s competency-based education (CBE) model relies upon our academic competencies serving as a synthesis of workforce-demanded skills. Skills from the WGU skills library are used as the foundation for design and development efforts. Aligning WGU offerings with skills ensures competencies, assessments, and courses are of maximum relevance and are well-aligned with the needs of students and employers alike.
Rich Skill Descriptors (RSDs) have been embedded with meta-data that allows them to not only be read and processed quickly by computers, but also understood with a depth of knowledge that touches into current workforce data, geographical needs, categorical relationships with other skills, current labor market and educational trends. A library is what constitutes an organization's whole catalog of skills. A collection pertains to those skills grouped together via subject matter, occupational relation, or special affinity like “common” or “21st century” skills (these are collaboration, critical thinking, and other types of growth skills).
Yes! This is an ongoing process. More collections are coming—so be sure to keep checking this page for updates.
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The WGU Skills libraries are made available under a Creative Commons BY-SA 4.0. For questions regarding use of these skills, please reach out to WICI@wgu.edu.
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