The Estonian educational system is divided into four levels, being: Preschool, Basic, Secondary and Higher education. There are state, public and private institutions for each of these levels. Higher Education is similar to most countries, with Estonia having Bachelors, Masters and doctoral programs, all of which are provided by both Private and public Universities throughout the country. Approximately 90% of Estonia's adult population has earned a high school degree or greater; placing Estonia over other countries such as the United States in terms of High school education. Estonia also spends approximately 2.3% of its GDP on research and development.
Bachelor's degrees are generally three years in duration, requiring a completion of 180 ECTS (credits). Certain programs such as medicine, dentistry and certain engineering programs are available as a single 'long cycle" study, hence are completed within 5-6 years with 300-360 ECTS (credits). These specific programs are integrated Bachelor and Master's degree programs and on the completion of the program the student would hold a masters degree.
Master's degrees are often completed within one to two years within 60-120 ECTS (credits).
Doctoral Degrees are often finished within three to four years.
Grading: All higher educational institutions in Estonia follow a 6 point grading scale. 0-6 (similar to A-F) where 5 (A) is excellent and 0 (F) is considered insufficient.
Languages of instruction: Russian, Estonian, (English is limited) |
