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Credentialing is an objective evaluation of training, experience, and ability.  It is a process for validating qualifications required for professional licensure or certification, and is often used in determining whether military training fulfills the requirements for civilian employment.  According to the U.S. Department of Labor, "Studies have shown that licensing and certification (credentialing) requirements for civilian employment pose a barrier to a smooth transition from military service to civilian employment."

Regardless of your experience or plans, credentialing follows a general outline.  Use the following steps to guide you through the process:

1. Determine your plan and the requirements for the program that you wish to pursue.  If you know what school or training facility that you will attend, check the requirements and prerequisites on that facility's web site.  A list of Michigan colleges and universities may be found here.  If you need some assistance in making a plan or exploring options, browse the links listed below under "Getting Started."
2. Visit the Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) to search career paths and educational requirements.  O*NET Online was developed for the U.S. Department of Labor to facilitate the transition from military to civilian employment.  Enter a military occupation and find civilian equivalents.
3. Document your military training by using the American Council on Education's Transcripts for Military Personnel.
4. Determine what additional training and education are needed.  The American Council on Education gives some guidance about necessary training and education, and individual training facilities can provide more detail, but you can also check general certification requirements for the State of Michigan here.
5. Use your GI Bill benefits to pay for classes, and in some cases, to be reimbursed the cost of testing.  Your program must be approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to receive your benefits.

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Credentialing Links:

Getting Started - assistance with your career plans
America's CareerInfoNet
Michigan Colleges and Universities
Michigan Proprietary Schools

Apprenticeship - a combination of work and classes
Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee, Inc. (MASCI)
Michigan Educators' Apprenticeship and Training Association (MEATA)
U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration
United States Military Apprenticeship Program

Certification and Licensure - validation and qualifications
America's CareerInfoNet - "Licensed Occupations" search
American Council on Education's College Credit Recommendation Service
CareerOneStop's Workforce Credentials Information Center
Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Educational Support (DANTES)
State of Michigan Licensed Occupations
U.S. Department of Labor's Study on Certification for Military Occupational Specialties
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - License/Certification search
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Licensing and Certification pamphlet