This is a new opportunity for first-year students of Bachelor's and Integrated Studies from 2023 and onwards.
Individualized Studies are a part of the curriculum that students independently select from their second semester or later. Individualized Studies will consist of subjects from their main study program, other study programs, Adjacent Studies, additional competency studies, 20+ language courses, General University Studies, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The list of Individualised Studies Subjects (Modules) can be found here.
Students will be able to choose the subjects of their interest from the Faculty they are studying in or from other Vilnius University Faculties. In total, students will be able to individualize up to 60 credits, which is a quarter of their overall studies, depending on their main study program.
What is important to know about Individualized Studies?
Uniqueness
- The ability to individualize one's studies is a response to a fast-changing environment and the labor market. Study individualization allows individuals to gain both interdisciplinary knowledge and an in-depth understanding of a specific scientific field.
- This is particularly useful for those who are uncertain about which study program to apply for or those interested in multiple study fields. The individualization of studies ensures a broader education and enhances the successful implementation of general competencies, leading to more opportunities in future postgraduate studies and careers.
- On the other hand, the opportunity to individualize one's studies for those interested in a particular scientific field will allow them to deepen their knowledge in the selected main study program.
Selection
- The selection of subjects for Individualized Studies will begin in the second semester. The ability to choose subjects will continue throughout the entire duration of one's studies, depending on the plan of the main study program.
- Students are advised to select subjects based on their interests, while also considering their future career path if possible. The staff at Vilnius University will be ready to provide guidance and consultation to students regarding Individualized Studies, with the aim of assisting them in making the most effective decisions.
Responsibility
- Along with the opportunity for individualization, there comes a certain responsibility to ensure the overall quality of one's studies.
- Vilnius University expects its students to be proactive. Therefore, first-year students will be encouraged to attend educational events, review provided methodological information, and sign up for academic or career consultations if necessary.
- One of the most crucial aspects of Individualized Studies is scheduling. Students are responsible for ensuring that the timetable for Individualized Studies' subjects does not clash with their main study program schedule. If there are any overlapping subjects, students will be required to either select Individualized Study subjects in the following semester or change the course group of their main study program (if such an option is available).
- It is recommended to select Individualized studies subjects responsibly, taking into consideration one's knowledge and abilities. Some subjects will be available for all Vilnius University students to choose, while others may have prerequisites.
Have questions or find it difficult to choose?
In case of challenges in choosing Individualised study subjects, students are provided with various help in the selection process:
- A course created in a virtual learning environment for individual studies, where all relevant information will be visible - dates of choices, subjects offered by departments, etc.;
- The career services provided by the University can help students get to know themselves better, find the most suitable career path, set future goals and take steps to help them achieve them. Get to know the services provided by the Career Center here;
- If you have questions about Individualised study subjects options, content or the study process in general, you can contact the academic advisors of your Faculty or any other Faculty and the Student Services and Career Office. You can find more information and register for a consultation here;
- With the help of the mentors network, which consists of department teachers, alumni or students, it is possible to consult on the acquisition of specific competencies while studying Individualised study subjects. Find yourself a mentor here;
F. A. Q.
Who can choose to individualise their studies?
Students of Bachelor’s or Integrated study programmes enrolled in 2023.
How do I know in which study semesters I have to choose Individualised study subjects?
You can check when you have to choose Individualised study subjects in your study program plan, e.g.:
Here we can see that in the 2nd study semester, in addition to the compulsory courses, the students will have the opportunity to choose 10 ECTS credit worth General Education Modules (Individualised study subjects).
What subjects will be available for selection? What will be the main principles for choosing these subjects?
Some subjects will be open to all university students, while others will require proof of eligibility, such as having completed specific prerequisites. Individualized Study subjects will encompass current General University Studies, Language Courses, subjects offered in other study programs, and in-depth study program subjects. Additionally, individualization will provide an opportunity to pursue partial studies abroad. There will also be a new type of subject available, namely Interdisciplinary Study subjects, which aim to cultivate interdisciplinary competencies.
When and where will I be able to select these subjects?
The initial subject selection will take place during the second semester of the first year of studies. The selection process will occur within the eStudent environment on specified dates.
The schedule of main studies and individualised subjects clash. What should I do?
The schedule of your main studies and Individualized Study subjects should not clash. However, if such a clash occurs, there are several options available. You may be required to select a different subject or change the group of your main study program (if feasible). Rest assured that you will have the opportunity to choose the subject of your interest in the following semester.
Will individualised studies cost more?
If you choose to include Individualized Study subjects in your study program, there will be no additional cost. The price of your studies will remain the same.
Will I have to study longer?
If you choose to include Individualized Study subjects in your study program, you will not have to study for a longer duration. Your study load should remain the same as well.
Will I be able to choose anything?
You will be able to select subjects from the subject list in the eStudent environment.
What part of my studies can be individualised?
You can individualize up to 60 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) of your studies, which is equivalent to one-fourth of your study program.
Will I receive a double diploma if I choose to implement individualized studies into my main study programme?
If you choose to individualize a part of your studies, you will not receive a double diploma. However, study individualization provides a perfect opportunity to enhance your competencies in other fields.
