The Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education has carried out an expert external evaluation of the Bachelor's and Master's biochemistry study programmes conducted by Vilnius University. We are delighted that the biochemistry studies have been accredited for the maximum period of seven years.
The international evaluation of the programme confirms that the biochemistry studies meet the highest quality requirements, and that its content, applied teaching methods and achieved study outcomes are relevant and valuable. Furthermore, the accreditation provides a quality guarantee for prospective students – it demonstrates that the knowledge and skills acquired during the studies will be significant and applicable in the modern market.
The external study programme evaluation panel consisted of academic staff from foreign higher education institutions with experience in higher education management, a social partner and a student representative. The programme was evaluated by analyzing various areas of its implementation – study aims, learning outcomes and curriculum, links between scientific research and higher education, student admission and support, study process, student assessment and graduate employment, teaching staff, learning facilities and resources, as well as quality assurance and public information.
Summary of the external evaluation conclusions:
Vilnius University's Bachelor's and Master's study programmes are clear national leaders in the field of biochemistry. In terms of content and quality, both programmes meet high international standards. Both programmes have solid, well-designed curricula with a good balance between core biochemistry, broader biosciences and general subjects, while also offering sufficient elective options for flexibility.
The programmes are very much research-driven and integrate students early in research projects matched to the level of studies (Bachelor's vs. Master's) and are supervised by highly-qualified scientists. The students in the programmes appear bright, active and inspired by the high scientific level and excellent reputation of the programme in the job market. The programmes provide a supportive and fair academic environment with easily approachable and friendly staff. Teaching staff is highly competent and supported by pedagogical and professional training ensuring the suitability of teaching methods. The facilities for teaching are excellent with top-class equipment and sufficient lecture and seminar rooms.
The Bachelor's programme should consider increasing biochemical lab work to complement the domination of chemistry in the lab practicals and both programmes should incorporate AI literacy in their courses. There is also plenty of room and possibilities to enhance internationalisation of the programmes via supporting and encouraging students' participation in international exchange programmes and by revising admission requirements to the Master´s programme to facilitate entry of talented foreign students. Although the programmes generally take good care of the well-being of their students, access to psychological counseling should be improved. The programmes should also consider establishing a specific teacher track with courses developing pedagogical competences.