A Pew Research Center report finds attainment of non‑degree credentials — certificates, bootcamps, micro‑credentials and apprenticeships — has tripled since 2009, with as many as one‑third of U.S. adults holding such credentials. Most learners pay out of pocket, and less than a quarter received financial support, raising affordability and equity concerns. States have begun filling the financing gap: 32 states allocated $5.6 billion last year to short‑term credential initiatives. Policy changes such as Workforce Pell and endorsements from accreditors like the Higher Learning Commission aim to improve quality controls and data collection. Higher‑education leaders will need systems to track outcomes and protect students from high‑cost, low‑value programs as the credential market expands rapidly.