NFT Credentials, Diplomas, Certificates in Education: The Complete Guide to Digital Documents

Author: Artem Grigoriev

Reading time: 25 minutes

Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction to NFTs and Blockchain in Education

Imagine a world where your educational achievements are not just listed on a piece of paper. Instead, they exist as unique, verifiable digital assets (digital representations of ownership). Welcome to the world of NFTs and blockchain in education! These cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing how we manage and perceive academic credentials. They make the process more secure, efficient, and transparent.

So, what exactly are NFTs and blockchain, and why are they significant in the educational sector? NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, are unique digital assets stored on a blockchain. A blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records transactions or information across many computers. This ensures the record cannot be changed. It guarantees transparency and security.

Each NFT is distinct and can be easily verified. This makes it an ideal way to represent educational achievements. This innovation allows for the creation of a digital, immutable record of academic accomplishments . These records can be accessed and verified globally. For a deeper dive into the basics, check out NFT and Blockchain in Education: All the Basics, Definition, and Explanation for Beginners .

But how are NFTs and blockchain used in education, and why should we care? Traditional educational credentials often involve paper certificates that can be easily lost or forged. With NFTs, educational institutions can issue digital credentials that are tamper-proof and easily verifiable. This innovation enhances the security and credibility of educational qualifications. It simplifies the verification process for employers and other educational bodies. It reduces administrative overhead and speeds up the process of credential validation. To understand more about their usage and significance, explore NFT and Blockchain in Education: How are they used and why? .

Creating educational NFT credentials involves leveraging blockchain technology to ensure the authenticity and integrity of these digital assets. By doing so, schools and universities can offer a more reliable way to certify students' achievements. This process includes embedding specific metadata within the NFT, such as the student's name, the issuing institution, the date of issuance, and details of the achievement. For an overview of how blockchain is used to create educational NFT credentials, read Blockchain Overview for Creating Educational NFT Credentials .

If you're a student or educator looking to understand the practical aspects of NFT credentials, there's a lot to learn. From how they are issued to how they can be used, NFT credentials offer numerous benefits and opportunities. These digital credentials can be shared easily across platforms, included in digital resumes, and showcased in professional profiles. For a comprehensive guide, take a look at NFT Credentials: A Guide for Students and Educators .

The Benefits and Transformative Impact of NFTs

The introduction of NFT credentials is poised to significantly impact traditional education systems. These digital credentials offer a secure and verifiable alternative to traditional paper certificates. They reduce the risk of fraud and make it easier for institutions to manage and verify student records. This shift improves the efficiency of administrative processes and enhances overall trust in the educational system. To explore this impact in detail, see The Impact of NFT Credentials on Traditional Education Systems .

One of the major benefits of NFT-based credentials is their ability to provide a transparent and tamper-proof record of achievements . This transparency can enhance the credibility of educational qualifications and streamline the verification process for employers and other educational institutions. Furthermore, NFT credentials can be easily accessed and verified from anywhere in the world. This is particularly beneficial in a globalized job market. For more insights into these benefits, read The Benefits of NFT-Based Credentials .

For students, educational NFT credentials open up a world of opportunities. They can easily share their verified achievements with potential employers or educational institutions, enhancing their prospects in both academic and professional realms. This can lead to more streamlined application processes and quicker validation of qualifications. To learn more about these opportunities, visit Opportunities for Students Using Educational NFT Credentials .

NFTs are not only transforming how credentials are issued but also how they are accredited and verified. Accreditation, the process of officially recognizing someone as having a particular status or being qualified to perform a particular activity, becomes more efficient and trustworthy with NFTs. This transformation benefits both students and educational institutions by reducing the chances of credential fraud. It also maintains high standards in education. For a deeper understanding of this transformation, check out How NFTs Are Transforming Educational Credentials and Accreditation Processes .

NFT Credentials vs. Traditional and Digital Credentials

When comparing NFT credentials to traditional paper credentials, the advantages of NFTs become clear. Paper credentials can be easily lost or forged. NFT credentials are secure, verifiable, and tamper-proof. They cannot be altered or duplicated without detection. This makes NFTs a superior choice for certifying educational achievements. Moreover, NFTs eliminate the need for physical storage and handling. This reduces the ecological footprint of credentialing processes . For a detailed comparison, read Comparing NFT Credentials to Traditional Paper Credentials: Which Is Better and Why? .

How do NFT credentials stack up against digital badges? Digital badges are another form of digital verification of achievements. They are less secure. While useful, digital badges can still be susceptible to duplication and fraud. NFTs, with their unique blockchain properties, offer a more advanced and reliable alternative. They ensure that each credential is unique and easily verifiable. To explore this comparison further, see NFT Credentials vs Digital Badges: Which is Better? .

Types of NFT Credentials

There are various types of NFT credentials available. Each serves different purposes and offers unique benefits. These can range from certificates of completion for courses to badges for specific skills or accomplishments. Choosing the right type of NFT credential depends on your specific needs and goals. For a guide on the different types of NFT credentials and how to choose the best one for you, check out Types of NFT Credentials: Which One to Choose and Why? .

NFT credentials can also be used for skill verification . They provide a verifiable record of a person's abilities and achievements. This is particularly useful in industries that require proof of specific competencies. However, like any technology, they come with their own set of pros and cons. For a balanced view on using NFT credentials for skill verification, read NFT Credentials for Skill Verification: Pros and Cons .

Design of NFT Credentials

Designing educational NFT credentials involves more than just putting a digital badge onto a blockchain. It's about creating a digital representation of academic achievement that is both visually appealing and functionally robust.

A well-designed NFT credential includes security features , personalization, and attractive visuals. This ensures it stands out and holds value in the eyes of both issuers and recipients.

This process includes: - Embedding metadata that details the achievement - Adding institutional logos - Using anti-counterfeit designs

For innovative ideas, best practices, and real-world examples, check out Designing Educational NFT Credentials: Ideas, Best Practices, and Examples .

Customization and personalization are crucial in the design of NFT credentials. By tailoring these digital certificates to reflect individual achievements and personal details, educators can make the credentials more meaningful and impactful.

This personalization can include unique designs and individualized data. It also involves customizable metadata that reflects the recipient’s specific accomplishments, such as course details, grades, and special recognitions.

For more on how to achieve this level of customization, read Customizing and Personalizing Educational NFT Credentials .

Verification, Security, and Trust in NFT Credentials

Verifying the authenticity of an NFT credential and identifying its owner is crucial to maintaining the integrity of digital certifications. Blockchain technology ensures that each NFT credential is unique and can be traced back to its origin. This makes verification straightforward and reliable.

This process not only confirms the credential's legitimacy but also helps in identifying the rightful owner. Additionally, verification systems can integrate with existing educational databases for easy cross-referencing.

Learn more about how to verify NFT credentials in How to Verify the Authenticity of an NFT Credential and Identify the Owner .

Securing NFT credentials is essential to prevent fraud and unauthorized access. Best practices for enhanced safety include: - Using secure wallets - Implementing multi-factor authentication - Regularly updating security protocols

These measures ensure that NFT credentials remain protected and credible. Institutions should also consider employing decentralized identity verification systems to further strengthen security.

For comprehensive safety practices, see Securing NFT Credentials: Best Practices for Enhanced Safety .

Decentralized identity verification through NFT credentials represents a significant step forward in digital identity management. This approach uses blockchain's decentralized nature to create a more secure and trustworthy method of verifying identities. It eliminates the need for central authorities, reducing the risk of data breaches and enhancing user privacy.

Blockchain networks can use cryptographic techniques to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.

To understand how this works, read Decentralized Identity Verification Through NFT Credentials: What It Is and How It Works .

Building trust with NFT credentials involves demonstrating their reliability and security to users. This includes: - Transparent issuance processes - Strong verification mechanisms - A commitment to ongoing security improvements

By fostering trust, educational institutions can ensure wider acceptance and adoption of NFT credentials. Engaging with stakeholders through clear communication about the technology and its benefits can also enhance trust.

For insights on building trust, visit Building Trust with NFT Credentials: How It Works .

Storing educational NFT credentials securely is another critical aspect. Using decentralized storage solutions, like IPFS or blockchain storage, ensures that these digital assets are safe from tampering and loss.

Best practices for storage include: - Encrypting data - Using secure digital wallets - Regularly backing up information

Additionally, employing redundancy measures and ensuring data availability can further secure stored credentials.

For detailed storage guidelines, see Best Practices for Storing Educational NFT Credentials .

Cost, Pricing, and Investment

The cost and pricing models for NFT credentials vary based on factors like issuance volume, customization level, and blockchain network fees. Understanding these costs is essential for educational institutions to budget effectively. They need to make informed decisions about implementing NFT credentials.

These costs can include: - Initial setup fees - Ongoing maintenance - Transaction fees on the blockchain

For a detailed breakdown of pricing models, visit Cost and Pricing Models for NFT Credentials .

Investment prospects in NFT credentials are gaining attention from both educational institutions and private investors. These digital assets offer potential for high returns, especially as the adoption of blockchain technology in education grows.

Investments can range from building the necessary technology to creating new NFT-based services. Educational institutions can also explore partnerships with technology providers to reduce costs and share revenue.

To explore these opportunities, check out Investment Prospects in NFT Credentials: For Educational Institutions and Private Investors .

Creation and Integration

Integrating NFTs into educational platforms and LMS involves a seamless blend of technology and pedagogy. This integration allows for the easy issuance, management, and verification of NFT credentials within existing educational systems. It enhances the user experience by providing a unified platform for all educational activities.

Integration steps can include: - API development , which allows different software systems to communicate - User interface design - Backend system compatibility

For a guide on integration, read Integrating NFTs into Educational Platforms and LMS Systems .

Compatibility of educational NFT credentials with various platforms is crucial for their widespread adoption. Ensuring that NFT credentials can be recognized and verified across different educational and professional platforms enhances their usefulness and value. This involves adhering to interoperability standards and using compatible blockchain technologies.

Collaboration between institutions and technology providers is essential to achieving this compatibility.

For more on this, see Compatibility of Educational NFT Credentials with Various Platforms .

The role of smart contracts in NFT credentials cannot be overstated. These self-executing contracts have the terms of the agreement directly written into code. This ensures that NFT credentials are issued and managed automatically. It reduces the risk of errors and fraud. They are essential to the secure and efficient functioning of NFT ecosystems.

Smart contracts can also include automated compliance checks and notifications.

To understand their importance, read The Role of Smart Contracts in NFT Credentials: Their Importance Explained .

Creating, issuing, and implementing NFT credentials involves several technical steps and requirements. This includes: - Setting up blockchain accounts - Designing NFT credentials - Deploying smart contracts

Following a step-by-step guide can help institutions navigate this complex process efficiently.

For a detailed guide, check out Step-by-Step Guide to Creating, Issuing, and Implementing NFT Credentials .

Understanding the technical requirements and specifications for creating, issuing, and implementing NFT credentials in education is essential for successful deployment. These specifications cover aspects like blockchain selection, security protocols, and data standards. Institutions must ensure they meet these requirements to maintain the integrity and functionality of their NFT credentials.

For a comprehensive overview, visit Technical Requirements and Specifications for Creating, Issuing, and Implementing NFT Credentials in Education .

Accessibility and Global Recognition

NFT credentials have the potential to revolutionize accessibility in education . They make it more inclusive and open to all. By leveraging blockchain technology, NFT credentials can be easily accessed and verified by anyone with an internet connection. This means that no matter where you are in the world, you can prove your educational achievements.

This removes barriers related to geographical location, socioeconomic status, or physical ability. It ensures that educational achievements are universally recognized and valued. Furthermore, they democratize access to verified educational records. This allows students from remote or underserved areas to prove their qualifications just as easily as those from urban centers.

To learn more about how NFT credentials are making education more accessible, read NFT Credentials Accessibility: Making Education Open to All .

Global recognition of NFT credentials is a game-changer for students and professionals alike. Thanks to their secure and verifiable nature, these digital credentials can be recognized and accepted worldwide. They provide a universal standard for educational qualifications.

A key player in this global recognition is the Trusted Third Party (TTP) . TTPs help ensure the validity and trustworthiness of these credentials across borders. They act as intermediaries that verify the authenticity of the credentials. This global standardization simplifies the process for students seeking education or employment internationally. It reduces the need for credential equivalency evaluations.

For insights into this process, see Global Recognition of NFT Credentials and the Role of TTP .

To effectively serve a diverse, global student population, NFT credentials must offer multilingual support and cultural adaptation . This means designing credentials that are available in multiple languages. They should also be tailored to respect and reflect different cultural contexts.

Such adaptations help in making NFT credentials more relatable and widely accepted. They ensure that students from various backgrounds feel represented and valued. For more on this topic, explore Multilingual Support and Cultural Adaptation of NFT Credentials .

The Trusted Third Party (TTP) is crucial for the verification of NFT credentials. A TTP acts as an intermediary that validates the authenticity of the credentials. This ensures they are recognized and trusted globally. Understanding the role of TTP is essential for appreciating the reliability and effectiveness of NFT credentials.

For a detailed explanation, visit What Is TTP (Trusted Third Party) and Why It's Essential for NFT Credential Verification .

NFT credentials offer a perfect solution for international students. They often face challenges with credential recognition in different countries. These digital certificates provide a universally accepted proof of education . They simplify the process of continuing education or seeking employment abroad.

This can significantly ease the bureaucratic processes international students typically encounter, including translation and notarization of documents. For more information on why NFT credentials are ideal for international students, read Why NFT Credentials Are the Best Solution for International Students .

The role of TTP in the global recognition of NFT credentials cannot be overstated. By providing a trusted validation service, TTPs enhance the credibility and acceptance of NFT credentials on a global scale. They ensure that educational achievements are recognized no matter where the student goes.

Additionally, TTPs can facilitate partnerships between educational institutions worldwide. This promotes greater academic collaboration and mobility. To understand the importance of TTPs, see The Role of TTP in the Global Recognition of NFT Credentials .

Enhancing Student and Alumni Engagement and UX

NFT rewards can significantly boost engagement and loyalty in education. By offering NFT-based incentives for achievements, schools can motivate students to participate more actively. They can also celebrate their successes in a modern, digital way.

This not only increases student engagement but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride. NFT rewards can include unique badges, certificates, or even exclusive access to certain resources or events. For more on how NFT rewards can enhance education, check out The Power of NFT Rewards: Boosting Engagement and Loyalty in Education .

Enhancing alumni engagement is another exciting application of NFT credentials. Alumni can receive NFT-based recognitions for their continued contributions and achievements. This strengthens their connection to their alma mater.

These digital tokens can serve as a modern badge of honor. They keep alumni involved and engaged. Additionally, NFTs can be used to offer alumni exclusive content, updates, or invitations to special events. To explore this further, read Enhancing Alumni Engagement Through NFT Credentials .

NFT credentials open up numerous opportunities for building communities and networking . By providing a verifiable and shareable record of achievements, these credentials can help students and alumni connect with like-minded individuals and professional networks. This leads to collaborative projects and shared learning experiences.

Platforms that support NFT credentials can integrate social features. This allows users to endorse each other’s achievements and build professional relationships. For insights on how NFT credentials facilitate community building, visit Building Communities and Networking: Opportunities Opened by NFT Credentials .

Developing a curriculum using NFT credentials and blockchain technology can enhance the educational experience. This makes it more interactive and transparent. Blockchain can track students' progress and achievements in real-time. This allows for a more personalized and engaging learning journey.

Educators can use this data to tailor instruction to individual student needs. This fosters a more adaptive learning environment. For ideas on integrating NFTs into curriculum development, see Developing a Curriculum Using NFT Credentials and Blockchain .

Collaborative projects can greatly benefit from the synergy created by NFT credentials. These digital tokens provide a clear, verifiable record of each participant's contributions. This makes collaboration more transparent and rewarding. It encourages teamwork and acknowledges individual efforts in group projects.

NFTs can also be used to certify the completion of collaborative projects. This provides all participants with a recognized credential. For more on this topic, check out Synergy in Collaborative Projects Through NFT Credentials .

Future Trends, Environmental Impact, and FAQs

The future of NFT credentials and blockchain in education is filled with exciting prospects. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of NFTs in education. This includes enhanced credentialing systems and new ways of learning and collaborating.

Potential developments include integrating AI to analyze learning patterns and recommend personalized educational paths. For a glimpse into the future, read The Future of NFT Credentials and Blockchain in Education: Exciting Prospects .

Current trends in using NFT credentials in education show a growing adoption and acceptance of these digital tokens. Institutions are increasingly recognizing the benefits of NFTs. These benefits include their security features and their ability to provide verifiable proof of skills and knowledge.

Innovations include partnerships between educational institutions and blockchain companies to develop comprehensive credentialing ecosystems. To stay updated on these trends, see Current Trends in Using NFT Credentials in Education .

The environmental impact of NFT credentials is an important consideration. While blockchain technology has been criticized for its energy consumption, newer, more sustainable blockchain solutions are being developed to mitigate this issue.

These solutions include proof-of-stake mechanisms , which are more energy-efficient ways of verifying transactions. Other energy-efficient consensus algorithms are also being explored. Understanding the environmental footprint of NFTs and exploring greener alternatives is crucial for their sustainable adoption.

For more information, visit The Environmental Impact of NFT Credentials .

FAQs on NFT credentials in education can help demystify these digital assets by addressing common questions and concerns. From understanding how they work to exploring their benefits and challenges, having a comprehensive FAQ guide is essential. This is especially important for anyone new to the concept.

This resource can be invaluable for educators, students, and administrators alike. For answers to all your questions, check out FAQs on NFT Credentials in Education: Everything You Need to Know .

NFT Platforms and Marketing Strategies

Choosing the right platform for creating and storing NFT credentials is key to their success. Top platforms offer robust features, security, and ease of use. This makes it easier for educational institutions to issue and manage NFT credentials.

These platforms should also support interoperability and offer tools for customization and scalability. For a list of recommended platforms, see Where to Create and Store NFT Credentials: Top Platforms .

TTP Credly is a leading platform for issuing NFT credentials. It is known for its user-friendly interface and reliable verification services. This platform provides educational institutions with the tools needed to create, issue, and manage NFT credentials efficiently.

It also supports integration with various learning management systems and other educational tools. For an introduction to TTP Credly, read Top Platform for Issuing NFT Credentials: Introducing TTP Credly .

Marketing NFT credentials effectively requires an understanding of their unique benefits. Knowing how to communicate these to potential users is crucial. Efficiency analysis, research, and targeted experiments can help in developing successful marketing strategies.

Highlighting the security, verifiability, and portability of NFT credentials can attract both educational institutions and students. For insights into effective marketing practices, visit Marketing NFT Credentials: Efficiency Analysis, Research, and Experiments .

NFT credentials support lifelong learning by providing a verifiable and shareable record of ongoing educational achievements. Best practices for using NFT credentials in lifelong learning include integrating them into professional development programs and recognizing and incentivizing continuous learning.

This approach encourages a culture of continuous improvement and skill development. For more on this, see NFT Credentials and Lifelong Learning: Best Practices .

Real-World Applications and Case Studies

NFTs and blockchain technology are making significant strides in education and beyond. From securing academic records to creating verifiable certificates, the practical applications of these technologies are vast and varied.

One compelling application is the creation of immutable academic transcripts . These transcripts can be easily shared and verified, reducing the administrative burden on institutions and the risk of fraud. Additionally, blockchain can streamline the transfer of credits between institutions, ensuring accuracy and reducing delays. For instance, when a student transfers from one school to another, their credits can be verified quickly and accurately without manual checks.

To explore more about these applications, check out Practical Applications of NFT and Blockchain in Education and Beyond .

Several educational institutions have already begun to implement NFT credentials and blockchain technology, showcasing their transformative potential. For example, some universities are issuing digital diplomas that students can share with potential employers, streamlining the verification process. Employers can quickly verify a candidate's educational background without contacting the issuing institution.

Additionally, some schools are using blockchain to track attendance and academic progress in real-time , providing a transparent and tamper-proof record of student performance. These case studies highlight the benefits and challenges of adopting such technologies, including insights into cost, security, and user acceptance.

For detailed insights and real-world examples, visit Case Studies: Educational Institutions Using NFT Credentials and Blockchain .

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Employer recognition of NFT credentials is a crucial factor for their widespread adoption. Many forward-thinking companies are starting to recognize and value these digital credentials, seeing them as a reliable and tamper-proof method to verify candidates' qualifications. Practical examples include tech companies using NFT-based certifications to validate coding skills and healthcare organizations recognizing blockchain-verified medical training.

For more on how employers are recognizing these credentials, see Employer Recognition of NFT Credentials: Practical Examples .

The legal landscape surrounding NFT credentials is complex and evolving. Questions about the legality of these credentials, privacy concerns, and data protection are at the forefront. Ensuring compliance with educational and data protection laws is essential for institutions adopting NFT credentials. This includes adhering to regulations such as GDPR and FERPA , which ensure that personal data is handled securely and students' privacy is protected.

For a comprehensive look at the legal aspects, read Is Using NFT Credentials Legal? Legal Aspects and Privacy Concerns .

Intellectual property rights (IPR) are another critical consideration. NFT credentials must respect the intellectual property of content creators, including educators and institutions. This involves understanding how digital content is protected and ensuring that NFT credentials do not infringe on existing IPR. Proper licensing agreements and rights management should be in place when issuing digital assets, ensuring creators are compensated fairly and their rights are protected.

For more on intellectual property rights related to NFTs, visit Intellectual Property Rights and NFT Credentials .

Ethical considerations in using NFTs for educational credentials involve issues like accessibility, equity, and the potential for misuse. Ensuring that all students have equal access to the technology required to use NFT credentials is vital. This includes providing resources and support to students who may not have access to the latest technology. Additionally, the ethical implications of using blockchain must be considered, as blockchain can have significant environmental impacts due to high energy consumption. Institutions should aim to use energy-efficient blockchain solutions , such as those based on proof-of-stake mechanisms.

Providing necessary technological resources to all students is also essential. For a deep dive into these ethical issues, read Ethical Considerations in Using NFTs for Educational Credentials .

Barriers to Adoption

Despite their potential, NFT credentials face several challenges and limitations in education. These include technological barriers, high costs, and resistance to change from traditional educational institutions. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing strategies to overcome them.

For example, institutions need to invest in training for staff and infrastructure upgrades to effectively implement NFT technology. Additionally, there may be concerns about the security and reliability of blockchain technology, which need to be addressed through education and demonstration of successful use cases.

For an in-depth look at these barriers, see Challenges and Limitations of NFT Credentials in Education .

Not all educational institutions have adopted NFT credentials yet for various reasons. Factors include a lack of understanding of the technology, concerns about cost and implementation, and the need for regulatory frameworks to catch up. Additionally, there might be resistance due to the perceived complexity of integrating blockchain with existing systems. Some institutions may also be waiting to see more widespread adoption and proven success before committing to the technology.

To explore why adoption has been slow, visit Why Not All Educational Institutions Have Adopted NFT Credentials Yet .

NFTs in Diverse Educational Contexts

NFT credentials are revolutionizing online and distance learning by providing a secure and verifiable way to certify achievements. This is particularly important for remote learners who need a reliable way to prove their skills and knowledge to potential employers. NFTs can also enhance the credibility of online courses by providing proof of completion that is widely accepted.

This means that students can present their NFT credentials with confidence, knowing these credentials will be recognized as valid and trustworthy. For more on how NFTs are transforming online education, read NFT Credentials: Revolutionizing Online and Distance Learning .

In informal education, NFT credentials are opening new horizons for accreditation. They provide a way to validate skills and knowledge gained outside traditional educational settings, such as online courses, workshops, or self-study. This can democratize education by recognizing diverse learning experiences and providing formal recognition for non-traditional education paths. This is especially beneficial for lifelong learners who continuously acquire new skills and knowledge in various settings.

To learn more, visit NFT Credentials in Informal Education: Exploring New Horizons of Accreditation .

Experiential learning and internships can also benefit from NFT credentials. They offer a way to document and verify the skills and experiences gained during hands-on learning opportunities, making them more valuable to employers. NFTs can also track the progress and outcomes of internships, providing detailed records of the intern's contributions and achievements.

This detailed documentation can help students stand out in the job market by providing concrete evidence of their skills and experiences. For insights on applying NFTs in experiential learning, see NFT Credentials in Experiential Learning and Internships .

NFTs are also being applied in professional training, certification, and accreditation . They provide a robust and verifiable way to certify professional skills, making it easier for individuals to prove their qualifications and for employers to trust them. This is especially beneficial in industries where ongoing certification and skill verification are essential, such as healthcare, finance, and information technology.

For more on this application, read Applying NFTs in Professional Training, Certification, and Accreditation .