Bakalaureusekraadi

Bakalaureusekraadi, or bachelor's degree, is the first level of higher education in many European education systems, including Estonia. It is awarded after the completion of a bachelor’s study program, typically lasting three years and totaling about 180 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits. The degree is conferred across a range of fields and commonly appears as Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), or as professional bachelor degrees in disciplines such as engineering, education, or nursing.

The structure of a bakalaureusekraadi program generally includes a combination of core courses in the chosen major, supporting general education or elective courses, and a final project or bachelor’s thesis. Specific requirements vary by institution and field of study, but the final thesis or capstone project is a common component.

Completing a bakalaureusekraadi enables entry into many master’s programs and provides a foundation for professional work in numerous sectors. In many countries, the degree is recognized as the standard credential for entry-level employment and as a pathway to further academic study.

Relation to other levels: the bakalaureusekraadi is the first cycle under the Bologna Process. The next cycle is the master’s degree, typically requiring about 1.5 to 2 years of study and additional earned credits (often 60–120 ECTS). International recognition of the bachelor’s degree is generally strong, though specific licensing or professional requirements may apply for regulated professions.