External Study Quality Assurance and Enhancement
External evaluation of studies helps the University to more effectively self-assess the quality of studies and internal quality assurance processes and contributes to their improvement. The results of external evaluation make it possible to inform the University community and society about study quality.
External Evaluation and Accreditation of Study
External Evaluation of Study Fields
External evaluation is a national quality assurance process during which independent experts assess the quality of study fields provided by the University. The evaluation is carried out in accordance with the procedure approved by the Minister of Education, Science and Sport.
Periodicity and Areas of Evaluation
External evaluation of study fields, on the basis of which they are accredited, has been conducted since 2020. Evaluation is carried out no less than once every seven years.
During the evaluation, studies of all cycles are analysed, and experts assess the following seven areas:
- study aims, learning outcomes and curriculum;
- links between scientific research and higher education;
- student admission and support;
- teaching and learning, student assessment and graduate employability;
- teaching staff;
- learning facilities and resources;
- quality assurance and public information.
Self-Evaluation and Expert Assessment
During external evaluation, a working group composed of representatives of the study field prepares a self-evaluation report, presenting an evidence-based analysis of studies.
An international group of experts prepares evaluation report based on the self-evaluation report and information collected during their site visit to the University, while the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education (SKVC) takes the final decision on accreditation based on expert evaluation report.
Accreditation Period
Study fields may be accredited for a period of 7 years or 3 years depending on the quality of evaluated areas. If significant deficiencies are identified, the study field is not accredited.
Significance of Evaluation
External evaluation helps ensure transparency, compliance with international standards, and continuous quality improvement. Results are publicly available and form the basis for further development.
Current Accreditation of Study Fields
Currently, all study fields in which Vilnius University delivers study programmes are considered accredited until they are evaluated according to the plan approved by the Director of SKVC (Order No. V-149 of 31 December 2019, as amended).
The results of completed evaluations can be found here:
Results of external evaluation and progress reports.
Follow-up Activities
Follow-up activities at Vilnius University are a systematic process ensuring continuous improvement of study quality and implementation of recommendations received during external evaluation.
Stages of follow-up implementation:
Once the decision on evaluation comes into force, the University prepares an action plan for implementing recommendations and submits progress reports within established deadlines, indicating achieved results.
This process is closely linked to internal quality assurance mechanisms defined in the Description of the Procedure for the Development, Implementation and Improvement of Study Programmes. Study Programme Committees analyse programme implementation annually, evaluate indicators, and initiate improvements integrated into the follow-up process.
Follow-up activities also include dialogue with students, academic staff and social partners, whose insights ensure relevance and evidence-based improvement.
Consistent implementation of follow-up activities enables the University to systematically improve study quality, increase transparency and strengthen a culture of accountability. The submitted progress reports can be accessed under “Results of External Study Evaluation and Progress Reports.”