Higher Education in Russia at a glance

It is estimated that there are currently in excess of 4 million students enrolled in universities across the Russian Federation

Levels of Higher Education

1. Bachelor

The first level of higher education, where students acquire fundamental theoretical concepts and initial practical experience in their chosen field.

A Bachelor's degree is broad-based, with education having a general scientific and general professional character. Students acquire fundamental knowledge, usually without specific expertise.

Upon completion of a bachelor's degree, students can progress to a two-year master's programme.

Term of study: 4 years.

2. Specialist

The programme combines elements of both bachelor's and master's studies, providing a deeper specialisation in a particular field.

It should be noted that a greater proportion of the programme's academic hours are dedicated to the study of theoretical and applied sciences in comparison to the Bachelor's programme. The programme offers a direct progression to postgraduate level without the intermediate step of a Master's degree.

Term of study: 5-6 years.

3. Master

The second level of higher education focuses on training professionals with in-depth knowledge of their chosen specialism.

During their studies, master's students have the opportunity to participate in internships, work placements in companies or organisations, as well as conferences and other professional events.

Term of study: 2 years.

4. Post-Graduate

This is the level of education for scientific staff training. Each postgraduate student or an adjunct has an individual study plan and their supervisor.

The programme provides for classroom training and examinations in history and philosophy of science, foreign language and a special discipline.

Term of study: three to four years, inclusive of research and thesis writing.

5. Residency

The educational level required for the training of medical and pharmaceutical workers. Upon successful completion of the programme and upon confirmation of the results of the attestation, the resident will be awarded a certificate that will authorise them to practise independently as a medical professional. The training itself is included in the labour record, as it is considered to be a job in the speciality.

Term of training: from 2 to 5 years, depending on the field of study

6. Assistantship-traineeship

In contrast to postgraduate programmes that focus on scientific research, the assistantship-traineeship programme is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to teach creative disciplines and enhance their primary creative qualification. The graduation project is a performance, concert, show, exhibition or film, depending on the specialisation.

Term of study: 2 years.