Higher education in Russia

Citizens of Russia have the right to education which is guaranteed by the Constitution and ensured by the broad development of compulsory secondary education,vocational education, specialized secondary education and higher education; by the provisions of state scholarships, grants and privileges for students. A distance education system helps working professionals to continue their education while remaining at their jobs.

Higher education plays an important role in the life of any country as it provides the country with highly qualified specialists. Russian higher education offers a wealth of choice from more than 200 medical, engineering, economic and humanities specialties. The majority of universities have full-time and part-time departments.

The students are admitted to the University on the basis of their Unified State Exam re­sults. Training of specialists at the university is based on combination of education and research. As a rule, the first- and second-year students get thorough instruction in the fundamental sciences. In the third year students begin to study the subjects they major in. Specialized courses and practical training help students to become specialists and prepare them for the future career.

One academic year lasts for 10 months (September 1st – June 30th). The academic year is divided into two terms. At the end of each term (January and June) students take tests and exams in the subjects that they have studied. Marks are entered into students' record-books. Between the terms students have vacations: winter vacation (2 weeks) and summer vacation (2 months).

There is a lecture system at the University. The students take down the notes of lectures. The students also have practical studies and seminars, carry out laboratory tests and experiments. The lectures are delivered by highly quali­fied teachers. They usually combine teaching with research work. The university is headed by a rector. Vice-rectors are in charge of academic and scientific work.

Students on contract basis have to pay for their training. But for the most of students tuition is free of charge. The students do not pay for using books, for laboratory work, teaching aid. The majority of students at day de­partment receive stipends. There are special higher stipends for honour students. Non-resident students are usually given accommodation in halls of residence.

Upon successful completion of training, graduates receive higher education degrees: “Bachelor of Science” / “Bachelor of Arts,“Master of Science” / “Master of Arts, “Specialist”. After four years of study students can pass examinations and get a bachelor`s degree. Then the students can go on with their studies and get a master`s degree at the end of the sixth year. Some students still can get the qualification of a specialist if they take a five year course of study. If a graduate is interested in scientific work he / she may continue his / her education at the postgraduate level and get a candidate degree and then a doctorate degree.

The recognition of Russian state university degrees all over the world is guaranteed in accordance with concluded intergovernmental and international agreements. At the present time all Russian state university degrees are recognized all over the world.

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