Skip to main content
European Commission logo
EACEA National Policies Platform:Eurydice
Bachelor
Malta

Malta

6.2.First-cycle programmes

6.2.1Bachelor

Last update: 25 March 2026

University of Malta

Branches of study

The University of Malta offers MQF Level 5 and 6 programmes of study in a variety of areas of study. Information on these courses is available on the University website https://www.um.edu.mt/study/ 

The Short-Cycle programmes may lead to First-Cycle programmes.  First-cycle bachelor’s degrees vary in duration between three to four years depending on the specialisation and the area of study.

Admission requirements

For undergraduate degree courses, the entry requirements are:

  • The Matriculation Certificate that includes six subjects – two subjects taken at Advanced Level and four subjects taken at Intermediate Level, including Systems of Knowledge.
  • Passes in the Secondary Education Certificate examination at Grade 5 or better in Maltese, English Language and Mathematics.
  • Some undergraduate courses also prescribe Special Course Requirements which are considered critical for successful completion of the course applied for. These requirements also specify the level and minimum grades that must be obtained. These Special Course Requirements are published by the University of Malta two years in advance of coming into force.

In addition, the University considers also applicants who are mature students (at least 23 years of age by the first semester of the course) and who do not necessarily possess the entry qualifications. Such applicants are required to demonstrate formal and informal learning achieved since completing secondary school education. Each applicant is assessed by the faculty and the University Admission Board to determine whether the prospective student has the necessary academic background to successfully complete the course of their choice.

In the case of foreign students, qualifications that are recognised and give access to tertiary education in their country of origin are considered as long as these qualifications are of comparable breadth and standard to the University of Malta’s General Entry Requirements. Where appropriate, applicants could be advised to follow a one-year Foundation Studies Course which prepares them for the first cycle course of their choice. Maltese language is not a requisite for overseas students, though another language needs to be presented.

Curriculum

The University of Malta, through its Faculties, Institutes, Centres and Schools has full academic autonomy and freedom to develop the nature, content and structure of the courses and programmes of studies. The University has implemented the Bologna process with few or no changes needed to be carried out in some areas such as the three-cycle system and a workload-based credit system as it had been operating this system for a number of years. Courses and programmes of study are developed and proposed by the Faculties, Institutes and Centres and approved by the Senate after having been processed by the Programme Validation Unit.

Each study unit is assigned a code in accordance with the regulations, and students then are required to select a number of study units according to the level weighting of each unit, as shown in the following Table:

Level 0 Pre-tertiary or foundation or proficiency study-units.
Level 1 Study-units normally offered in Year 1 of an undergraduate Course where it is assumed that the students have a general level of education at least meriting the award of the Matriculation Certificate. In Courses where admission is dependant on students being in possession of special course requirements, such as a pass in a subject taken at Advanced Level, lecturers can assume that students possess the pre-required knowledge
Levels 2 /3 Study-units offered in Years 2 and 3 of an undergraduate Course. Level 3 study-units are also offered in Year 4 of an undergraduate non-professional course. Lecturers can assume that students have the required skills associated with studying at tertiary level
Level 4 Study-units offered in Years 4 of a professional Course. Such study-units, normally imparting specific professional competencies although given at a level higher than Level 3, are still considered as being at undergraduate level

All study-units within courses are assigned credits according to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) which is the only credit system in operation at the University since 2003/4.

The number of study hours students have to undertake is indicated by the number of ECTS credits assigned to the individual study-unit. The amount and level of credits making up each undergraduate qualification awarded by the University of Malta is found below:

University Undergraduate Award Requirements
University Pre-Tertiary Certificate  Not less than 16 credits at Level 0.
University Certificate 30 or 32 credits of which not less than 26 credits not below Level 1.
University Diploma  60 or 90 credits, as specified in the bye-laws for the Course, of which not more than 4 Level 0 and not less than 56 Level 1.
University Higher Diploma 90 or 120 credits, as specified in the bye-laws for the Course, of which not more than 4 Level 0 and not less than 56 Level 2.
Bachelor 180 credits of which not more than 4 Level 0, not less than 56 and not more than 68 Level 1, and not less than 108 more or less divided equally between Levels 2 and 3.
Bachelor (Honours in one Area of Study) (three year full-time Course) 180 credits of which not more than 4 Level 0, not less than 56 and not more than 68 Level 1, and not less than 108 more or less divided equally between Levels 2 and 3 of which not less than 56 Level 3 credits assigned to the area taken at honours.
Bachelor (Honours in two Areas of Study) (4 year full-time Course) 240 credits of which not more than 4 Level 0, not less than 56 and not more than 68 Level 1, and not less than 168 more or less divided equally between Levels 2 and 3 of which not less than 50 Level 3 credits in each of the two areas taken at honours.
Bachelor (Honours) (4 year full- time professional Course) 240 credits of which not more than 4 Level 0, not less than 56 and not more than 68 Level 1, and not less than 168 Levels 2, 3 and 4 of which not less than 100 at Levels 3 and 4.

Teaching Methods

Courses at the University of Malta are mainly of an academic nature and structured on the modular study-unit system. Courses which lead to professions such as education, engineering, medical and health sciences incorporate teaching, practical or clinical sessions, work placement, fieldwork and similar experiences as required.

The method of instruction varies according to course requirements. Generally, a variety of methods are adopted according to the topic being considered and to facilitate learning. Methodology varies and could include lectures, seminars, group projects, tutorials, practical work in laboratories or workshops, clinical sessions, and fieldwork, depending on the type of programme of studies. The use of communication technologies has become the norm. Lecturers are free to identify the best teaching methods and instruments required for the effective delivery of their credit. Computerised library services are essential sources of reference for students’ studies.  The Library offers online access to journals, electronic indexing services and bibliographical databases in many areas.

Progression of students

Students following the different courses are expected to cover a number of study units over one full-time academic year.

For Degree courses, students are awarded a total of 60 ECTS credits on successfully completing one full-time academic year. Once these 60 ECTS credits have been obtained students are progressed to the following year of their course.

Students who fail to obtain all the credits can sit for a supplementary session under certain conditions. Those students who after the supplementary session need not more than 12 ECTS credits  to successfully complete the course programme for the year, whenever possible and after academic advice by the Dean and /or the Head of Department, the Board may give one of the three following options:

  • refer the Incomplete Study-Units to the following year of their Course plan to be done over and above the Study-Units indicated for that year; or
  • refer the Incomplete Study-Unit/s to an extension year, if the student is in the final year of the Course; or
  • repeat the year in its entirety, if eligible in terms of the regulations.

Those students who opt to take up the option to refer incomplete units to the following year of their Course are considered as conditionally progressed students. Students who again fail the assessment of a referred study unit in a normal session of examinations are allowed a final reassessment in the September supplementary session, if they are eligible according to the regulations. Students are not allowed to continue the course if, after supplementary assessment sessions, they fail once again to obtain the required credits for any of the referred units. A study-unit may be referred to the following year only once.

Students who, after the June assessment session of a particular academic year of study, lack more than 20 of the credits required for their current year including credits for referred study-units are not allowed to sit for the supplementary session. These students are required to repeat the year if eligible in terms of the regulations. If they are not eligible to repeat a year, students are required to withdraw from the course. Students are allowed to repeat a year only once.

In the final year of a course, students who after the supplementary session of examinations, still need to successfully complete only one study-unit (normally a dissertation, a long essay or a project) to which more than 12 ECTS credits are assigned to successfully complete the course, may be allowed an extra year of study in which to complete the missing unit.

Employability

Links between the world of education and that of employment are ongoing and continuously being enhanced. Initiatives are taken in a number of faculties, institutes, centres, and schools to familiarize students with the world of work. These initiatives include actual placements, such as those of student teachers in the Faculty of Education, and industry linked projects in the Faculties of Engineering and ICT. Some courses incorporate work experiences as an integral part of the academic course. Courses in the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery have direct work-related periods. Students following nursing and other health sciences courses include work experiences in hospitals and/or clinics. A number of faculties organise study visits for students both locally and abroad.

Student assessment

A student’s performance and progress is assessed in a number of ways. Assessments may include written supervised examinations, oral examinations, home assignments, including a short or long essays or dissertations, clinical or practical examinations; portfolios; projects; fieldwork; case studies; logbooks; continuous assessment or a placement. There can also be acombination of two or more methods or any other method approved by Senate. The lecturer responsible for the study-unit determines the method of teaching and assessment. These methods of teaching and assessment for each study-unit is indicated in the study-unit description and published in the catalogue of study-units, following approval by Senate. All students on the same study-unit are assessed by the same method/s of assessment.

Any student who fails in any study-unit, except in a study-unit that is declared to be non-compensatable in a Programme of Studies, with a mark of not less than 35% and whose year mark average is at least 50%, can be awarded the grade of Compensatory Pass. Thus, the credit is awarded for the unit by compensation and the credit is not required to be reassessed. Students who fail in any study-unit and who are not eligible for a compensatory pass are allowed a supplementary assessment under certain conditions.

Certification

Certification classification is different for each award. Students following a Certificate course are awarded a general unclassified certificate. Students following Diplomas and Higher Diplomas may be  awarded any of the following classifications:

  • Pass with Distinction 
  • Pass with Merit
  • Pass

Bachelor degrees may be awarded in any of the following categories:

Category I (Summa Cum Laude) 
Category IIA (Magna Cum Laude) 
Category IIB (Cum Laude) 
Category III (Bene Probatus)

Bachelor  Honours degrees may be awarded in any of the following classes: 

  • First Class Honours (Summa Cum Laude)
  • Second Class Honours (Upper Division) (Magna Cum Laude)
  • Second Class Honours (Lower Division) (Cum Laude) 
  • Third Class Honours (Bene Probatus)

The classification of awards is determined by the Award Classification Board in accordance with criteria that are indicated in the general regulations and in the course bye-laws.

Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)

The Malta College of Ats, Science and Technology caters for higher education programmes and vocational degrees while also working in close collaboration with industry in order to provide professionals that are both academically prepared and practically  trained to satisfy the needs of the local industry.

MCAST's Institutes and Centres provide the technical and professional expertise necessary for the delivery of its programmes. The Institutes and Centres provide all the technical and professional expertise towards the delivery of all programmes at MCAST while having the main aim of driving forward all the areas of study under their respective responsibility with an outlook towards the future. This corporate structure enables each College to create focused strategies that address the specific needs of students at each level while maintaining a healthy dialogue with all interested stakeholders in order to provide the best programmes for the needs of the local economy and society.

MCAST’s Institutes and Centres include:

  • Institute of Community Service
  • Institute of Applied Science
  • Institute of Business Management and Commerce
  • Institute of the Creative Arts
  • Institute of Engineering and Transport
  • Institute of Information and Communication Technology
  • MCAST Gozo Campus
  • Centre for Learning and Employability
  • Centre for Professional Development (CPD)

The complete list First-Cycle Programmes at MCAST is available online at: 

https://mcast.edu.mt/full-time-programmes/

Admissions

The Admission Regulations are specified in the Prospectus which is available on the MCAST website. As a rule, admission is based on qualifications obtained through the SEC and MATSEC. Entry requirements are established by the MCAST central administration and quality assurance department in collaboration with the MCAST Institutes’ directors. While students may be able to progress from the lower-level programmes to the higher-level ones, applicants holding the relevant qualifications may be eligible to apply from outside the College if they prove they can benefit by joining a course of study at the appropriate level.
Applicants who satisfy the following conditions may apply for consideration to join MCAST programmes as mature students:
- Be in possession of a School Leaving Certificate and other certificates achieved at various levels - depending on the course level one is aspiring to follow.

- Have, by the end of the same calendar year, attained:

a. the age of 27 years for entry to programmes at MQF Level 7

b. the age of 23 years for entry to programmes at MQF Levels 5/6

c. the age of 21 years for entry to programmes at MQF Level 4

d. the age of 19 years for entry to programmes at MQF Level 3.

- Demonstrate that they stand to benefit and show that they can follow the chosen programme of study. This is done through an interview held for the purpose and any other possible actions that gauge the applicant’s standing and sound preparation for the chosen programme of studies. Shortlisted applicants will be called for an interview to assess their suitability for the selected programme. Age is not the only criteria for eligibility. Applicants under the Maturity Clause are to sit for English and / or Mathematics Maturity Proficiency Instruments (depending on the course applied for). The Maturity Clause Selection Board may require candidates to undertake additional studies as part of their acceptance. The Board may recommend an alternative programme where this is considered appropriate. The Board reserves the right to evaluate the applicant’s competences through various modes of assessment.

Curriculum

MCAST as a self-accrediting institution has full autonomy in developing curricula of study and training based on the concept of lifelong learning. Curriculum development is carried out in consultation with students, lecturers and stakeholders from various economic sectors whilst taking into account the changing economic landscape. This ensures that knowledge, skills and competences within the Curriculum are relevant and appropriate. Programmes include units covering  key competences as well as units dedicated to  underpinning knowledge and sectoral skills related to the vocational area of the programme in question. The distribution of such units varies by MQF level as per the provisions of the Referencing Report and guidelines by MFHEA. Work-based learning is also at the heart of vocational programmes at MCAST. Thus, learners are prepared for employment through a combination of relevant work experience and college-based learning.

Teaching Methods

As outlined in previous chapters, at MCAST teaching methods include both theoretical and practical sessions in laboratories and workshops with some courses including on-the-job training. Extensive use of ICT is made by staff and students alike. This is further enhanced through the state-of-the-art Library and Learning Resource Centre which supports students in their research activities to complete their assignments.

Progression of students

Many of the higher-level courses offered by MCAST extend over a period of two or three years. Throughout each year students are expected to complete a number of units or modules and perform adequately in the assessments forming part of the programme. Students have an opportunity to re-attempt the necessary work when they do not manage to satisfy the entire unit’s learning outcomes. This is necessary if they intend to progress to the following year. Re-sits are subject to established regulations as specified in the course respective handbooks. When the academic performance of a candidate is considered insufficient, the student may qualify to complete the failed units in a subsequent year.

Employability

MCAST has a student support and advisory service which provides extensive services to students both with regard to full-time and part-time courses run at the various Institutes, as well as personal support which students can get both before and during their stay at MCAST.

The Guidance and Counselling service within MCAST also offers support and assistance to students in:

  • Vocational Guidance and Counselling – which aims at assisting students along their career path as well as identifying alternative paths.
  • Personal Counselling – which is more growth oriented aimed at helping, supporting and encouraging students in their daily challenges.
  • Group Activities – to facilitate students to work as a team.

Student assessment

A variety of assessment instruments including home-based assignments, group work, presentations, practical assessments etc. are used to gather and interpret evidence of student competence toward pre-established assessment criteria that are aligned to the Learning Outcomes of each unit of the programme of study.  Lecturers also  provide formative, ongoing feedback to students highlighting both the student strengths and possible areas for development and/or improvement. Through this learner-centred teaching, learning and assessment approach, students are offered an opportunity to demonstrate their progress in the learning process. 

EQF/MQF Level 1 and Level 2 courses: Applicants who have completed compulsory education and are in possession of Secondary School Certificate & Profile (SSC&P, rated or unrated) will be accepted to MCAST Level 1 or 2 study programmes following Initial Assessment Tests. Holders of two SSC&P level 1 & 2 subjects or SEC grades 6 and 7 from Maltese, English and/or Mathematics will be accepted directly to the Level 2 Foundation Programme of choice.

Certification

All the courses offered by MCAST have been pegged to the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF) as issued by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority . Full-time courses range from introductory Level A going up to Doctoral Level (MQF Level 8) MCAST also offers Part time courses from MQF Levels 1 - 8. The Doctoral programme at MQF Level 8 was launched in 2021.
MCAST issues Europass Diploma/Certificate supplements and Transcripts alongside the final certificate to candidates successfully completing all courses in all MQF levels. Bachelors Degrees are classified as follows:

  • First Class (80%-100%)
  • Second Class (Upper Division) (70%-79%)
  • Second Class (Lower division) (60%-69%)
  • Third Class (50%-59%)

MQF Level 7 candidates receive the Europass diploma supplement alongside their Masters degree certificate upon successful completion. Masters Degrees are classified as follows:

  • Distinction (80%- 100%)
  • Merit (65%-79%)
  • Pass (50%-64%)

Institute of Tourism Studies

Branches of study

In 2017, ITS launched three honours degree programmes in Gastronomy, International Hospitality Management, and Culinary Arts, followed by a degree programme in Diving Safety Management in 2020. These programmes are designed to provide students with the opportunity to achieve the levels of excellence required by the tourism and hospitality industry. . The following are the degree programmes currently offered by ITS:

  • Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons BCA (Hons.) 

In collaboration with Institute Lyfe (formerly Institut Paul Bocuse) in France

MQF Level 6, Total Credits: 240 ECTS

Duration: Three years (includes LITP and IITP)

  • Bachelor in International Hospitality Management (Hons) 

As of 2023, with specialisations in Finance, Food and Beverage Service and Events, Human Resources, and Spa and Wellness [B-IHM (Hons) with Specialisations]

In collaboration with Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences (HHUAS) in Finland

MQF Level 6, Total Credits: 240 ECTS

Duration: Three years (includes LITP and IITP)

  • Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management

In collaboration with DAN Europe

MQF Level 6, Total Credits: 180 ECTS

Duration: Three years (full-time) or four years (part-time) (includes two work placements)

Admissions

Entry criteria for the Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons):

A combination of a minimum of three (3) subjects at advanced and intermediate level, of which one (1) subject must be an A-Level pass at MQF/EQF Level 4. These must add up to a minimum of 44 grade points as per MATSEC Regulations; AND passes at grade 5 or better in the English and Mathematics SEC examinations (SSC&P Level 3); AND at least four (4) years of documented relevant experience in an industrial kitchen.

OR

Successful completion of ITS’s Diploma in Food Preparation and Production Operations at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 120 ECTS.

OR

Successful completion of ITS’s Undergraduate Diploma in Food Preparation and Production Management at MQF/EQF Level 5 with a minimum of 60 ECTS. Students meeting this criterion will be admitted to the 2nd year of the degree.

OR

Successful completion of the Preparatory Course for the Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons) at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 60 ECTS.

OR

Apply as a mature student of at least 23 years of age by the beginning of the academic year applied for, and be subject to proficiency and/or aptitude tests as directed by ITS. Additional requirements include: (i) at least 4 years of relevant documented experience in an industrial kitchen; or (ii) successful completion of the Preparatory Course for the Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons) at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 60 ECTS. Furthermore, ITS reserves the right to subject the candidate to an interview and/or RPL procedure prior to acceptance.

Applicants must also submit evidence of their English proficiency at Level B2.

Entry criteria for the Bachelor in International Hospitality Management (Hons) with Specialisations:

A combination of a minimum of three (3) subjects at advanced and intermediate level, of which one (1) subject must be an A-Level pass at MQF/EQF Level 4. These must add up to a minimum of 44 grade point as per MATSEC Regulations; AND passes at grade 5 or better in the English and Mathematics SEC examinations (SSC&P Level 3). Non-Maltese applicants may substitute the Maltese O-Level with their native language O-Level. 

OR

Successful completion of one of ITS’s Diplomas at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 120 ECTS (or a comparable qualification).

OR

Successful completion of one of ITS’s Undergraduate Diplomas at MQF/EQF Level 5 with a minimum of 60 ECTS. Students meeting this criterion will be admitted to the 2nd year of the degree.

OR

Successful completion of the Preparatory Course for the Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons) at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 60 ECTS.

OR

Apply as a mature student of at least 23 years of age by the beginning of the academic year applied for, and be subject to proficiency and/or aptitude tests as directed by ITS. Furthermore, ITS reserves the right to subject the candidate to an interview and/or RPL procedure prior to acceptance.

Applicants must also submit evidence of their English proficiency at Level B2.

Entry criteria for the Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management

A combination of a minimum of three (3) subjects at advanced and intermediate level, of which one (1) subject must be an A-Level pass at MQF/EQF Level 4. These must add up to a minimum of 44 points as per the provided matrix; AND passes at grade 5 or better in the English and Mathematics SEC examinations (SSC&P Level 3).

OR

Successful completion of one of ITS’s Diplomas at MQF/EQF Level 4 with a minimum of 120 ECTS (or a comparable qualification).

OR

Successful completion of one of ITS’s Undergraduate/Higher National Diplomas at MQF/EQF Level 5 with a minimum of 120 ECTS.

OR

Apply as a mature student of at least 23 years of age by the beginning of the academic year applied for, and be subject to proficiency and/or aptitude tests as directed by ITS. Furthermore, ITS reserves the right to subject the candidate to an interview and/or RPL procedure prior to acceptance. 

Applicants must also submit evidence of their English proficiency at Level B2.

Additional Entry Criteria 

In addition to the aforementioned entry criteria, applicants must have an EN standard level 2 diving certification (such as the PADI Rescue Diver or an equivalent certification from a recognised agency) and a minimum of thirty (30) logged drives. These requirements are mandatory due to the pratical diving components of the programme. Candidates who do not meet both of these requirements may still enrol, but they will need to provide evidence of meeting these requirements by the end of the first semester of the first academic year. Applicants are also required to complete and submit a Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire, which can be found on the ITS website. 

Curriculum

Through its innovative, high-quality lifelong learning academic programmes, ITS prepares individuals for the future of the tourism and hospitality industry. Resources are focused on developing inclusive programmes that facilitate the acquisition of technical, generic, and behavioural skills and competencies, whilst integrating theory with practical experience. Additionally, the programmes promote modern leadership approaches.

The values driving our vision are to:

  • Provide a student-centred curriculum that fosters creativity, innovation, participation, self-reflection, and personal independence;
  • Develop specialised technical, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills aligned with future industry trends and requirements;
  • Encourage an international perspective whilst embracing and respecting cultural differences between local and foreign communities;
  • Promote professional development through lifelong learning opportunities for all members of society;
  • Advocate for ethical and environmentally sustainable practices; and
  • Offer individual guidance, mentorship, and holistic development for our students.

Teaching methods

Various instructional strategies are employed within each module to accommodate different learning styles. Lectures, didactic questioning, and explicit teaching are used to convey core information. These are complemented by indirect instruction methods such as reflective discussions, concept formation, and problem-solving exercises. Interactive instruction, including whole-class discussions, places emphasis on the learning process rather than the end product. Personalised reflection on experiences and the application of learning to different contexts are encouraged, as these are essential elements of effective experiential learning. As part of the Bachelor Culinary Art and Bachelor in International Hospitality Managment (Hons.) with specialisatons degree programmes, students participate in an International Internship Trade Practice (IITP) and a  a Local Industrial Trade Practice (LITP). Students following the Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management have two work placements. 

Employability

The degrees outlined in this section provide students with the optimal qualifications for top careers in the tourism and hospitality industry. These programmes equip students with essential management skills related to their chosen field, ensuring they are well prepared to secure careers both in Malta and across Europe and beyond. 

Bachelor in Culinary Arts (Hons):

This programme equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within the culinary industry. Combining scientific principles of food with hands-on culinary techniques, the programme prepares graduates for careers in restaurants, hotels, catering, and food service establishments. Key components such as food safety management, kitchen operations, and employee engagement ensure that students gain valuable management skills alongside culinary expertise. With opportunities for local and international industrial placements, including a semester at Institut Lyfe in France, graduates emerge with a global perspective and practical experience. This comprehensive training opens pathways to roles as chefs, kitchen managers, culinary instructors, food consultants, and entrepreneurs, with the option for further study in the field.

Bachelor in International Hospitality Management (Hons) with Specialisations:

This programme equips students with a diverse skill set through modules like business English, ICT, finance, and marketing, alongside specialised areas such as creative hospitality, digital marketing, and technology-enhanced experiences. With academic training in research methods and practical experience gained through local and international industrial placements, students are well-prepared for real-world challenges. The option to specialise in Finance, Human Resources, Food and Beverage Service and Events, or Spa and Wellness further enhances their employability, enabling graduates to pursue careers in various sectors of the tourism and hospitality, both locally and internationally.Students spend one semester at the Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in Finland. 

Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management:

This programme equips students with essential skills for careers in the diving and tourism industries by providing a deep understanding of risk assessment, human physiology, and diving-related hazards. Graduates will be able to propose strategies to mitigate risks, manage diving injuries, and collaborate with recompression chamber facilities. The programme also covers key business aspects, such as human resource management in the leisure industry, and provides specialised knowledge of diving equipment for various types of diving activities. This comprehensive training ensures graduates are well-prepared for roles in dive operations, safety management, and business development within the diving and tourism sectors.

Student assessment

Assessment for degree courses is module-based, with each module incorporating one or more of the following forms of evaluation: class assignments, written and practical examinations, projects, presentations, on-field assessments, and home assignments, amongst others. To successfully complete the course, students must pass all core modules along with selected elective modules, accumulating the required ECTS as outlined in the programme.

Certification

ITS provides certification in both traditional and electronic formats. Each graduate receives a hard copy of their degree certificate along with a full transcript. Additionally, ITS is the first institution in Malta to issue certificates in the form of block-certs, a secure electronic format. This platform was recently launched and will be used for all courses starting from January 2018.

Institute for Education

Bachelor’s Degrees

The Institute for Education offers a Bachelor of Education (Hons) degree on a part-time modular blended-learning basis. 

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

This programme targets individuals who wish to enhance their skills and competencies in pedagogy. The target audience is either qualified individuals wanting to join the education sector or persons already within the education sector who need to follow an initial teacher-training course. It aims to equip participants with the necessary tools and competencies to teach effectively in the 21st-century classroom while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for learning. The degree is over four years of part-time study for a total of 180 ECTS. 

Branches of Study

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

The Institute for Education currently offers over fifteen (15) streams that include:

  • Primary Education
  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Maltese
  • Biology
  • Physical Education
  • Religious Education
  • European Studies
  • Social Studies
  • Agribusiness
  • Engineering Technology
  • Fashion and Textiles
  • Hospitality
  • Hairdressing and Beauty
  • Health and Social Care
  • Business Education and Retail
  • Media Literacy

The institute is continuously working to add more streams to fill a gap in Tertiary Education with regard to initial teacher training. 

Admission requirements

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

Requirements for this programme can be found online by accessing this link

Curriculum

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

Course details and learning outcomes can be found online by accessing this link

Teaching Methods

The IfE is committed to providing high quality teaching, learning and assessment to enable all course participants to achieve their full potential. This is achieved through; high quality teaching and learning opportunities, rigorous assessment and feedback and the sharing of good practice. The IfE’s ‘Teaching, Learning and Assessment Policy and Procedures’ provides an effective guideline for the delivery of high-quality teaching, learning and assessment. This policy relates to all the staff within the IfE to facilitate, support and manage learning. It applies to all learning programmes offered by the IfE irrespective of; type of activity, place of delivery, learning environment, level or the duration of the course.

The Institute for Education is committed towards flexible teaching strategies that employ digital technology. Bachelor programmes adopt a blended approach to teaching and learning. The online approach may be either synchronous or asynchronous sessions.  Teaching methods employ interactivity and engagement through various activities that promote critical reflection, creativity and practical application. Teaching methods are based on active learning. Course participants have opportunities to discuss in groups and employ peer learning. Through methods such as the flipped classroom pedagogies and the use of critical pedagogy, learners experience meaningful teaching methods that can then be employed with their students. Three teaching practice modules are delivered at licensed, compulsory education schools.

More details on, teaching, learning and assessment at the Institute for Education is available online through this link. 

Student Progression

Bachelor degrees awarded by the Institute for Education are accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority at EQF/MQF Level 6 and may provide access to further studies at EQF/MQF Level 7. 

Employability

Bachelor of Education (Hons)

The Bachelor of Education (Hons) is recognised by the Council for the Teaching Profession and is part of the requirements for applying for a regular teaching position. Thus, graduates can apply for regular teaching positions in Malta and Gozo. 

Student Assessment

All programmes at the Institute for Education adopt formative assessment all along the learning journey to ensure progressive personalised growth. The programmes also incorporate summative assessment in the form of continuous assessment. Such assessments include assignments, online tasks, portfolios, reflective journals, projects and presentations. For further details regarding assessment policies, procedures and grading systems, kindly refer to the Teaching, Learning and Assessment Policy and Procedures available through this link.

Certification

Upon successful completion of any of these programmes, course participants are conferred a MQF/ EQF Level 6 Bachelor’s degree certificate accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority.