Short-Cycle Higher Education

The Albanian Law on Higher Education recognizes only three cycles of study — Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate. Specifically, Article 70, paragraph 4 of this law states:“Study programmes in higher education institutions are organized in three consecutive cycles: first, second, and third cycles, corresponding to levels 6–8 of the Albanian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Higher education institutions may also offer professional diplomas corresponding to level 5 of the AQF.”

In contrast, the term “short-cycle programme” is an international classification, such as that used in the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), referring to studies shorter than the first cycle, typically lasting 1–2 years. However, Albania does not include this level within its legal higher education framework.

Branches of Study

There are different professional based studies within this programme. Professional study programmes [Programet e studimit me karakter profesional] after high school education of 60 or 120 ECTS. Their normal duration is one or two academic years. ‘

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements in professional study programmes include completion of high school or professional high school.

Curriculum

-According to Law No. 80/2015 “On Higher Education and Scientific Research in Higher Education Institutions in the Republic of Albania,” Article 40, paragraph 1, letter (b) specifies:“Academic autonomy includes the right of a higher education institution to:
(b) design and approve its own study programmes and curricula.” Therefore, curricula are designed and approved by the universities themselves, not by the ministries

Teaching Methods

Idem with bachelor cycle

Progression of Students

Idem with bachelor cycle.

Employability

Idem with bachelor cycle.

Student Assessment

Idem with bachelor cycle

Certification

Professional Certificate’ [Certifikatë Profesionale] or ‘Professional Degree’ [Diplomë Profesionale] is issued for the area of obtained education, EQF

Organisational Variation

One or two years study programmes. Programmes drafted by the institution that offers such programmes.