"If the Policy Lab on the European degree is actively running, I am sure that in one or two years we will see some results" - prof. Romiță Iucu, CIVIS Steering Committee

The SMARTT project was the first milestone set on the basis of the European Degree concept and the one responsible for validating the different ranges of criteria. In parallel, other academic projects like micro-programmes and blended intensive programmes are being developed to experiment, validate and innovate in developing a new flexible curricula.

It is important to create a bridge between small learning experiences that are recognised and extend them into large learning experiences, like a degree programme. Now, we have reached the point where we have achieved creating true transdisciplinary master’s degree programmes, such as TRACEE, on climate, environment and energy. And our dream is to have a European degree based on the criteria established and tested in the previous processes, stated prof. Iucu. 

The European degree policy lab, ready to be launched

A platform of reflexions between member states, ForEU4All and other stakeholders involved in this process - the EUA (European University Association), Enqa (European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education), Unica (Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe), external partners from the labour market area - is ready to be launched.

The European degree policy lab is in the process of validating policies, creating indicators and operational guidelines for future criteria, aiming to be used to design European degrees. 

I think the European degree will become an important instrument for the internationalisation of the European higher education system through the new 65 alliances. We will also work in the topical subgroup dedicated to the European degree on the concept of internationalisation and creating a more inclusive and sustainable approach to the European degree and its possible achievements.

It's about universities without walls, emphasises professor Iucu, which will empower students and give them a huge advantage in their professional lives. 

Some challenges, still on the agenda

Already having joined programmes at the level of alliances and internal functional criteria, it’s easy to transform them at the general level.  But securing sustainable funding and addressing regulatory barriers across national education systems are still topics to be addressed, though.

The use of specific educational instruments is needed to harmonise different cultures, academic approaches, and national legislation and tackle all challenges. Also, at the level of member states, it is important to create a national platform of discussion between universities and alliances to analyse, reflect and overcome the possible barriers.

Prof. Iucu is optimistic and hopes that we will be able to see some results in 1-2 years, depending on the political dynamics. But further processes will be based on the European degree as structurally designed and well harmonised. The calendar will depend on further discussions and negotiations between member states, the EU, the DG EAC, and other significant stakeholders. 

Erasmus+ projects provide strong evidence to support the European Degree Blueprint

A resolution on the Commission’s Blueprint for a European degree and the proposal for a Council recommendation on a European quality assurance and recognition system is to be taken into discussion by the Council of the EU. By simplifying procedures, adding flexibility and facilitating exchanges, the European Degree can help foster innovation and position European talent. More details available in our previous CIVIS news. 

Read ROMIȚĂ IUCU'S full interview in the News Tank Academic