Two master’s programmes offered by European university alliances have become the first to receive a new quality label awarded by the European Commission that recognises joint degree programmes across the continent.
EU-Conexus’ joint master’s in marine biotechnology and Charm-EU’s master’s in global challenges for sustainability were awarded the joint European degree label during a ceremony in Brussels on 15 July.
The label is part of the commission’s efforts to promote cooperation in higher education between different European countries. To qualify, programmes must be designed and delivered together by universities in at least two European Union member states or countries that are part of either the European Economic Area or the European Free Trade Association. The commission wants to eventually create a joint European degree that would be automatically recognised across the EU.
Roxana Mînzatu, the commission’s executive vice-president for social rights and skills, quality jobs and preparedness, said the label “marks the beginning of a new chapter for higher education”.
“We are recognising programmes that are designed together, taught together and prepare students to tackle challenges that no country can address alone. And this approach is something truly unique,” she said.
