Microcredentials (shorter-term credentials) are integrating into traditional degree pathways, and trustees of public colleges and universities should examine the role of these credentials in the baccalaureate programs of their institutions. Shorter-term credentials can provide substantial benefits for public four-year institutions, including improved return on investment on baccalaureate degrees, better alignment of skills with market demands, increased transparency, and greater responsiveness to labor-market changes. These benefits are most likely to be realized when a validated market analysis is conducted, clearly identifying the competencies needed from today's students. This issue brief discusses: (1) disruptions to the higher-education business model; (2) why microcredentials are for four-year institutions, too; (3) state examples of microcredential programs that offer incentives for college students; (4) how states promote economic opportunity through microcredentials; (5) how states can protect the quality of microcredentials; and (6) how trustees can integrate microcredentials.