The Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) is set to empower professionals in the digital industry as active creators of web design through the launch of its Front-end Development Microcredentialing Courses, scheduled for March 2026. The new course offerings were announced during the MOOCs and Microcredentials Launching Event held at the UPOU Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.
The initiative responds to the growing demand for upskilling and reskilling in the digital economy and forms part of FICS’ strategic contribution to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, Infrastructure. By expanding access to functional digital skills and tools, the program supports professionals seeking to transition into or advance within high-growth digital sectors.
UPOU Chancellor Joane V. Serrano noted in her opening remarks that the initiatives highlight the institution’s commitment to non-formal education in broadening access to quality learning. “By offering flexible learning pathways, we reach a wide community of learners, including students, professionals, and lifelong learners, making education truly inclusive and open to everyone.”
FICS Dean Roberto B. Figueroa Jr. emphasized the relevance of microcredentialing in today’s rapidly evolving work environment. “…We are launching our first set of microcredentials—flexible, stackable, skills-based pathways that support lifelong learning. These are important as we respond to the needs of working professionals, communities, and learners who are continuously adapting in a rapidly changing world.”
The Front-end Development Microcredentialing Courses consist of four specialized micro-courses covering essential competencies in web development: markup language (HTML), styling language (CSS), scripting (JavaScript), and responsive design frameworks. Learners may enroll in individual courses based on their specific needs or stack the micro-courses for academic credit.
The course schedule is as follows:
MCWEB01: Foundations of Web Design Building Blocks of Markup Language
- 2 March to 3 April
MCWEB02: Essentials of Styling:Mastering Web Style and Layout
- 6 April to 8 May
MCWEB03: Essentials of Scripting: Crafting Interactive Web Experiences
- 11 May to 11 June
MCWEB04: Responsive Design: Framework Fundamentals
- 15 June to 17 July
Interested enrollees may visit the Advancing Skills and Competencies thru e-Learning for Development (ASCEND) website for detailed information on enrollment and course requirements.
This initiative forms part of the UPOU Microcredentials Program, which offers stackable, career-focused courses delivered through a flexible learning environment. These courses are designed to address specific academic and industry needs that are creditable towards a degree program.
The launch of the Front-end Development Microcredentialing Courses marks the third milestone in FICS’ three-part MOOCs and Microcredentials Launching Event. Through the integration of open education and industry-relevant skills, FICS continues to bridge the gap between traditional academic learning and the rapidly evolving demands of the digital world.
Written by: Maria Andrea Bodaño
Edited by: Emely M. Amoloza