Research activities in the first two cycles of Biosystems engineering studies in the Lithuanian University of Agriculture

Abstract

The system of higher education and research in Lithuania is based on the Law on Higher Education of March 21, 2000 [1]. As a result, the following changes in higher education were introduced [2]: the three level system of higher education; an advanced system of credits for measuring the amount of study and promoting student Exchange; a ten-point grading scale assessment system; an external assessment system for the quality of studies; the content of education has been in principle updated - the system has become more flexible, students are offered more choice, more time is provided for the students’ individual work. Faculty of Agricultural Engineering of Lithuanian University of Agriculture provides three cycles of studies in Agricultural Engineering. The research activity for first cycle students is not mandatory. However Faculty departments are inviting students for work as part time auxiliary staff of or voluntary participant of the project. Research activities are compulsory for the 2nd cycle of studies. Present Master studies in Biosystems/Agricultural Engineering are oriented for scientific work. 16 ECTS are given for individual research work. Master studies are accomplished by preparing and defending Final thesis after publishing at least one scientific article.