Academic staff in higher education institutions are required to hold relevant academic qualifications in accordance with the Law on Higher Education. There is no separate national initial training programme specifically designed for newly elected academic staff in higher education. Entry into the profession is generally based on holding the relevant academic degree (a master’s or a doctorate), depending on the position. 

Teaching positions typically require at least a master’s degree, while senior academic positions (such as associate professor and professor) generally require a doctoral degree. Additional requirements may include research experience, teaching competence and academic achievements.

At the same time, in accordance with the Authorization Standards for Higher Education Institutions, HEIs are required to develop and implement a staff development-oriented management policy. This policy includes procedures to support the integration of newly recruited staff into the working environment and ensure their effective participation in institutional activities. 

While no uniform national model for initial pedagogical training is prescribed, institutions are expected to establish appropriate mechanisms to facilitate the onboarding and professional integration of new academic staff. The specific approaches and methodologies vary across institutions, depending on their experience, strategic priorities and staff development needs.

Roles and responsibilities

Academic staff are responsible for teaching, research and, where applicable, participation in institutional governance and academic activities.

Higher education institutions determine the balance between teaching, research and administrative duties.