CEHD credential services
Over the past several years, the development of online employment applications and the need and ability to share and transmit application materials electronically has dramatically changed the process of applying for jobs. With these new trends the use and utility of traditional hard-copy credential services has also changed dramatically. Employers and job searchers have both required new flexibility to respond to new application tools and trends. The traditional credential file no longer serves the needs of most job applicants or employers.
In light of these changes, the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) will discontinue its credential services over the next year. In its place, CEHD staff will provide tools and information to help students and alumni with implementing their own plan for managing their credential information. The most likely scenarios will be to create a “self-managed” file, or to select another service provider who can organize and distribute file information electronically for job applicants.
One such provider, Interfolio, has worked with CEHD to help provide an alternative online service. However, there are other providers available, and you are encouraged to investigate all options.
Here are key things you should know about this change:
- Effective December 1, 2008, CEHD will no longer accept new
credential files, or requests to reopen existing files.
PLEASE NOTE: The only exception to this are current students who have paid a confirmation fee for the service this year. They have the option to open a new file in 150 Williamson Hall until December 1, 2009. However, after this date, students will need to develop their own plan for managing their credential file. Please see the options below. - If you currently have an open, active file, your service will continue until the end of your current contract. When files are opened or extended, they have been active for one calendar year at a time. Your file will continue to be open and available for use until the contract expires. When the contract expires, you will need to decide how to manage your file in the future. See the information below for options.
- You can have the current contents of your file forwarded to you. You can then opt to manage the information yourself, or forward the information to a new service provider. CEHD can forward all material to you with the exception of letters that you requested to be confidential.
- You can request to have the contents of your current file forwarded directly to Interfolio. All letters and information can be forwarded to this provider, even those designated as “confidential.”
All requests to file information returned or referred must be submitted by December 1, 2009. No print credential files will be accepted after that date. All print files will be destroyed 30 years after their submission.
To create a self-managed file (on your own)
Receive contents by mail—for students or alumni who already established a CEHD credential file and would like to receive the contents by mail
Tips on creating and maintaining your self-managed credential file
To create an Interfolio account
Transfer an existing credential file—for students or alumni who already have established a CEHD credential file and would like to transfer materials to Interfolio
Open a new credential file account—for students or alumni who have not established a credential file with CEHD
To submit letters of recommendation (for letter writers)
CEHD credential files will now be self-managed. Individuals can choose to self-manage their file on their own or online through Interfolio.
When writing a letter of recommendation, references may submit their letter directly to the individual or submit the letter electronically through Interfolio. Sending recommendation letters electronically to an online credential system such as Interfolio is a widely used practice and an acceptable format for employers. (Please note: Students/alumni are responsible for letting their references know which method they prefer.)
Instructions on submitting a letter of recommendation via Interfolio
Interfolio's letter writers help center
Questions?
Check the frequently asked questions page, or contact:
Interfolio Customer Service
E-mail: help@interfolio.com
Phone: 877-77-FOLIO
Fax: 267-295-8740
CEHD Credential Services
Phone: 612-625-9884
E-mail: sps-cred@umn.edu
Revised November 2008