Nondegree credentialing has expanded rapidly, but a new report finds most students pay for certificates and microcredentials out of pocket. The surge reflects employer demand for skill‑specific credentials even as institutions and policymakers debate who should fund these shorter pathways. Researchers warn that heavy reliance on student payments may limit access for lower‑income learners and raise questions about return on investment. The report recommends clearer outcomes data, stronger employer alignment and more institutional and public funding to broaden equitable access. Colleges are piloting subsidized credential pathways, employer partnerships and stacked‑credential models to improve affordability and labor market alignment, but scaling those programs requires sustained funding and clearer outcome measurement. Clarification: nondegree credentials include certificates, badges and short vocational credentials that do not confer a traditional academic degree.