Laipsnyje

Laipsnyje is a term derived from the Lithuanian language, where "laipsnis" means "degree" or "level." In the context of Lithuanian education and academic progression, the term refers to the structured levels of schooling and higher education that students follow. The Lithuanian education system is divided into several stages, each corresponding to a specific laipsnis.

Primary education in Lithuania begins at age six and lasts for four years, forming the first laipsnis. This is followed by basic education, which spans five years (grades 5–9), making up the second laipsnis. After completing basic education, students proceed to secondary education, which is divided into two laipsniai: lower secondary (grades 10–12) and upper secondary (grades 13–14). Upper secondary education culminates in the *bendrasis atestatas* (general certificate), a national exam required for university admission.

Higher education in Lithuania is also organized into laipsniai, reflecting academic degrees. The first laipsnis is the bachelor’s degree (*bakalauro laipsnis*), typically requiring three to four years of study. The second laipsnis is the master’s degree (*magistro laipsnis*), usually taking one to two years to complete. The highest academic laipsnis is the doctoral degree (*doktoras*), awarded after independent research and a dissertation defense, often requiring three to five years of postgraduate study.

The term *laipsnis* is also used in professional certifications and vocational training, indicating levels of expertise or qualification. For example, in technical or artistic fields, different laipsniai may represent increasing proficiency or mastery. The structured nature of laipsniai ensures a clear progression in education and career development within Lithuania’s academic and professional frameworks.