First-cycle programmes correspond to Bachelor-level studies under the Bologna system and are officially called studii universitare de licență.

Types of first-cycle programmes:

1.    Academic (theoretical) Bachelor’s programmes: They focus on building strong theoretical knowledge and analytical skills in a discipline. They primarily prepare students for master’s studies, research, or academically oriented careers, rather than immediate vocational practice.

These programmes are common in fields like: 

• Humanities
• Social sciences
• Natural sciences
• Economics
• Law (licență stage).

2.    Professional (applied) Bachelor’s programmes: They emphasize practical skills and applied knowledge, with substantial internships or hands-on training. They are designed to prepare graduates for direct entry into the labour market, while still allowing access to master’s studies.

These programmes are common in fields like: 

• Engineering
• Applied sciences.

Modes of study in Romanian first-cycle programmes include: 

• full-time
• part-time, and 
• distance learning, differing mainly in attendance requirements and the balance between in-person instruction and independent or online study.

Most first-cycle programmes last:

• 3 years (180 ECTS) – standard for most fields
• 4 years (240 ECTS) – mainly for: Engineering and some technical and applied sciences.