kõrgkool

Kõrgkool is an Estonian term for a higher education institution that provides tertiary education and grants degrees beyond the secondary level. In Estonia, higher education is delivered by universities (ülikool) and by other institutions that offer professional or applied bachelor’s and master’s programs. The word kõrgkool can be used generically to refer to any such institution, but the official terminology distinguishes universities that emphasize research (and may award doctoral degrees) from non-university higher education institutions that focus on applied or professional education.

Historically, Eesti higher education included institutions branded as kõrgkool, but since reforms in the late 20th and early 21st centuries most new degree‑granting institutions identify as ülikool, akadeemia, or professional colleges. In practice, a kõrgkool typically provides undergraduate and graduate programs and may engage in applied research and industry cooperation without the extensive research infrastructure of a university.

Degrees at a kõrgkool are acknowledged within the Estonian Qualifications Framework and are recognized by state authorities. Higher education is regulated by the Ministry of Education and Research, which handles accreditation and quality assurance for degree‑granting institutions.

Etymology: the word combines kõrg ('high') and kool ('school'), signaling its role as a higher education establishment.

See also: higher education in Estonia, universities, Estonian Qualifications Framework, professional higher education institutions.