11 - Bulgaria - Curriculum
The study process at higher schools is carried out according to a set of documents specific for each
speciality, which comprises qualification characteristics distributed across the study plan, curricula, the
yearly schedule of the study process. The study content in each discipline is organised in relatively
self-sufficient units. Each unit should include a minimum of 15 hours lecture-hall activities. An
academic hour lasts 45 minutes. There are compulsory, elective and facultative disciplines. Higher
schools provide each student with opportunities to choose disciplines within the approved of study
plan. Study plans are implemented after being approved of by the academic council.
Training in regulated professions is done under nationally approved plans (standards).
If a student desires, he/she can complete his/her tertiary education earlier (following the so called
individual plans).
After completion of all envisaged obligations (according to the study plan) a diploma is issued
regardless of the calendar term of education.
Curricula and syllabi contain guidelines for evaluation. Study plans may include participation ain
practical activities, internships, research programmes as part of the study plan. Within the Bologna
process and under the conditions of applying European dimensions in tertiary education, all study
plans in Bulgaria are include compulsory modules for training in ICT and foreign languages.
Depending on the particular speciality, this foreign language training can be intensive, or extensive,
continuing throughout the whole study period. A number of tertiary schools have established their own
contemporary foreign language centres (through European-funded projects or depending on their own
means) which offer additional training to undergraduate and doctoral students.
The Higher Education Act allows acquisition of a second major (within study towards the acquisition of
one and the same degree) or recognition of certain modules within the existing academic autonomy.
Eurydice - the information network on education in Europe
Date: 2009