Job-ready from day one: IT students earn Microsoft certifications as they study

Published: 31 October 2025

Southern Cross University’s Information Technology degree is designed to prepare students to be job-ready from day one.

In partnership with Prodigy Learning and Microsoft, the University has integrated Microsoft certifications into fundamental IT units from the first year of study, allowing students to earn industry-recognised qualifications as they learn.

These certifications are built into assessments and fully funded by the University. Normally costing between $100 and $200 each when completed independently, this initiative removes financial barriers and adds significant value to students’ studies.

So far, students have gained a range of Microsoft Certified accreditations, including Azure Fundamentals, AI Fundamentals, Security, Compliance and Identity Fundamentals, and Azure Data Fundamentals.

These certifications provide targeted validation of real-world skills, helping students build technical proficiency that directly applies to current business challenges. Once achieved, students can showcase their verified Microsoft credentials on professional platforms, strengthening their profiles and demonstrating their expertise to employers.

Since the program launched in early 2025, student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The Azure Fundamentals certification is invaluable and internationally recognised, which is highly beneficial,” one student shared in their unit feedback.

For Bachelor of Information Technology student Bryce White, the highlight of completing the unit was learning the fundamentals of Microsoft Azure and understanding how cloud computing is transforming business operations.

“I currently work with SharePoint, so it was great to learn how server choices affect scalability and security, which has helped me see how these systems work together in practice,” Bryce said.

“The most surprising thing was earning an accreditation. I did not enrol expecting that, but it was an unexpected bonus and made me realise there are numerous opportunities for careers as an IT professional.”

Through Prodigy Learning’s platform, students gain access to practice materials, official tests, and certification exams.

Building on this success, Southern Cross University will introduce additional certifications in 2026, focusing on skills that are increasingly in demand across the technology and business sectors.

“This expansion reflects Southern Cross University’s commitment to providing globally relevant, industry-aligned credentials that enhance students’ employability both in Australia and internationally,” said Professor Haifeng Shen, Professor of Information Technology in the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

By combining innovation, technology, and strong industry partnerships, Southern Cross University is equipping students with the skills and credentials to thrive.

“With momentum building and an exciting roadmap ahead, Southern Cross University is setting a new standard for student employability and academic excellence in the digital age,” said Eimer Henderson, Account Manager at Prodigy Learning.