Higher Education in Russian Federation
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Higher Education in Russian Federation
After finishing secondary school and taking the Unified State Examination, students can enter higher education institutions (HEIs): universities, academies, and institutes. Admission for students is competitive and HEIs use the Unified State Examination results. Students can apply simultaneously to several institutions all over the country.
There are different forms of education: fulltime, evening and correspondence. While the higher education in Russia is mostly free of charge, HEIs admit a significant number of tuition-paying students.
Attendance of classes in HEIs is mandatory. The academic year consists of two semesters. At the end of each semester students take exams. The course mark is determined by the final examination mark in that subject. Other courses may be evaluated as pass/fail. Budget students with high examination results receive scholarships.
The first- and second-year students get knowledge in fundamental sciences such as mathematics, physics, chemistry and the humanities, for example, foreign languages, history, philosophy and others. In senior years students receive specialized education. After four years of study students defend a Diploma project, pass the finals and get the Bachelor’s Degree.
The Bachelor's degree gives access to the Master's degree. It is a two-year course. Students must defend a thesis and pass the finals.
The traditional qualification of a Specialist diploma opens access to professional practice and is awarded after five-year studies.
The Candidate of Sciences is the first doctoral degree in the Russian educational system and is awarded in all disciplines. It is focused on research and university teaching. The Doctor of Sciences is the highest academic degree in the Russian Federation.
Notes:
Higher Education Institution (HEI) – Высшее Учебное Заведение (ВУЗ)
Unified State Examination (USE) – Единый Государственный экзамен (ЕГЭ)
Bachelor’s Degree – степень бакалавра
Master’s Degree – степень магистра
Candidate of Sciences – кандидат наук
Doctor of Sciences – доктор наук