... and those credits can be added to a full degree course if you wish to do so later.
Hi pncool,
I agree with gcoe. It's not going to be that easy.
As I understand: you enroll at University for a "programm" rather than just a single paper.
E.g.: You enroll for Post grad Certificate and start with 2 papers. You can then put the programme on hold (I cannot remember for how long this is possible) and either discontinue or re-start some time later. Only in this case, your credits would remain and count towards the certificate (or diploma if you want to go that way).

However, best is really to:
A) ask the Board what they understand you need to do
B) contact the Universities to check what they are able to offer in your particular case

Cheers,
Fyzzio