Education in Uzbekistan/History of Higher Education in Uzbekistan

The Uzbek higher education system consists of institutions, scientific and pedagogical establishments performing research work, and state body formations. According to the National Programme for Personnel Training, higher education builds on academic achievements of specialised secondary education (academic lyceum) and/or vocational education (vocational college) and includes two levels: Bachelor degree and Master degree.

The Ministry of Higher and Secondary Specialised Education’s (MHSSE) responsibility is to organize the academic year, including the length of the semesters, examination periods and academic holidays.

The academic year starts on September 2nd and lasts until the end of June. It is divided into two semesters with holidays ranging from 10 to 12 weeks:

• 1st semester - from early September to late January;

• 2nd semester - from the beginning of February to the end of June, although the duration of the semester can vary depending on the status of the HEIs or on the study program.

First level - Bachelor program

This basic higher education provides fundamental knowledge in one of the branches of higher education for a minimum period of study of four years. Upon completion of the Bachelor program, graduates are awarded Bachelor degree and a state diploma, which entitles them to start professional activity or to continue studies at Master level.

Second level - Master program

This level of higher education provides knowledge in specific areas and lasts for at least two years after the Bachelor degree. Master program graduates are awarded a state diploma, which entitles them to work in the relevant professional areas or to continue education in postgraduate education establishments.