University and professional studies are conducted at higher education institutions (HEIs).

The university studies educate students in the fields of science, art and higher education, in the business world, the public sector and society in general, and train them to develop and apply scientific, artistic and professional achievements.

Professional studies train students to perform professional work in the business world, the public sector and society in general. 

The study levels are: short-cycle study, undergraduate study, graduate study and postgraduate or doctoral study. 

The Republic of Croatia joined the Bologna Process in 2001, and since 2005, learning outcomes and workload have been defined in study programmes through ECTS credits. As a rule, a student can acquire 60 ECTS credits during one year.