On standards or conventions specific to the higher education system in Europe which differ in structure and style from the systems in other parts of the world. Keep in mind that many different countries, customs and regulations coexist in Europe, so many questions will not have a unique answer that applies to the whole continent.
The educational system in Europe differs in structure and style from the systems in other parts of the world.
Specific differences
- The structure of the European higher education system was mainly set by the Bologna Process, which had a goal of establishing comparable, compatible and coherent systems of higher education throughout Europe, to make it easier for students and job seekers to move within Europe.
- In Europe, higher education typically consists of a 3-year bachelor and a 2 year master degree. The PhD typically takes 3-5 years instead of 5-7 years in the united-states.
- PhD admissions in Europe is typically handled by the potential supervisor, not the department.
- Some countries within Europe have other differences. For example, in many areas such as Germany, Austria or Scandinavia the title of the doctorate is also not called PhD but Dr. (name of the field) such as Dr. rer. nat. for a doctorate in the sciences.
Relevant questions
- Can a Ph.D. candidate at a US-style Ph.D.-only graduate school be admitted to a European doctoral course?
- European style PhD in the US
- What are the long-term advantages of a US PhD compared to Europe/Oceania?
- Moving to Europe and seeking research assistant work after undergrad / masters - best approaches?
- 'Teaching position or teaching oriented position' in Mathematics in Europe?
