First-cycle programmes in Iceland are offered by accredited higher education institutions (see Section 6.1) in accordance with the Higher Education Act No. 63/2006 and the National Qualification Framework for Higher Education. 

The Icelandic system is based on a learning outcomes approach, where all qualifications are defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competences acquired upon completion of studies. All higher education institutions are required to design their programmes in accordance with this framework.  

Within the National Qualification Framework, first-cycle programmes correspond to level 5.°1 leading to a diploma  (see short cycle, below) and 5.2, leading to a bachelor's degree. A Bachelor´s degree is awarded to students who have completed a structured programme comprising 180–240 ECTS credits.  

The Icelandic higher education system does not formally distinguish between different institutional types of first-cycle programmes. Universities provide both academically oriented and professionally oriented programmes within a unified framework. The structure and content of programmes are, however, differentiated through learning outcomes, programme design, and links to professional practice.