Analytic Quality Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Home

Citation reference: Harvey, L., 2004–11, Analytic Quality Glossary, Quality Research International, http://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/glossary/

This is a dynamic glossary and the author would welcome any e-mail suggestions for amendments or additions. Page updated 31 January, 2012

____________________________________________________________________

Bachelor-masters

core definition

Bachelor-master’s is the shorthand for a two-cycle system of higher education introduced across the European Higher Education Area as part of the Bologna process.

explanatory context

A Bologna Process (undated) website states that Ministers [in Europe] "asked for the development of an overarching framework of qualifications for the European Higher Education Area. Within such frameworks, degrees should have different defined outcomes. First and second cycle degrees should have different orientations and various profiles in order to accommodate a diversity of individual, academic and labour market needs".

analytical review

World Education News (2012) defines:

Two-Cycle System (two-tiered system): The Bologna Declaration calls for the adoption of a degree structure comprised of two clearly defined cycles: undergraduate (bachelors) and graduate (masters and doctorate).

AEC (2004) defines it thus:

2-Cycle system: The Bologna Declaration calls for the organisation of higher education throughout Europe into two phases or cycles – undergraduate and postgraduate/graduate (these terms are used interchangeably). In a number of European countries, one-cycle studies are still quite common in higher arts education. The total length of studies also varies. In many countries, the qualification of the first cycle is called ‘Bachelors Degree’ and that of the second cycle, ‘Masters Degree’.

associated issues

related terms