In 2023, Tomsk State University and five other leading Russian universities entered the higher education enhancement pilot project. Decree No. 343 on Certain Aspects Regarding the Enhancement of the System of Higher Education was signed by the president of the Russian Federation on May 12, 2023.
TSU is currently recruiting applicants for 13 pilot basic and specialized educational programs: The University is implementing its best practices for shaping and testing a new model for the Russian higher education system.
Why was TSU allowed entry in the experiment?
Having reached its 145th anniversary, TSU offers a wealth of experience including development strategies under ambiguity. TSU has always been a research-focused university: New knowledge is key to being efficient in an ever-changing environment.
TSU is entering the experiment with a substantial analytical base. Over the last three years, the university has gathered data on best educational practices, and they will be the foundation for the upcoming changes in the Russian higher education system.
Are admission rules subject to change?
The admission process will remain the same. TSU will not alter the list of entrance exams or the rights of applicants.
Upon completing their respective programs, students will receive state-accredited educational documents that employers will be able to recognize.
Who will the pilot project affect?
Over 400 students are applying to TSU in 2023 for the following programs:
Basic (main) educational programs:
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Software Engineering
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Journalism
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Mechatronics and Robotics
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Applied Mechanics
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Ballistics and Hydro-Air Dynamics
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Technical Physics
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Legal Studies
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Fundamental and Applied Physics
Specialized educational programs:
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Creating a Technology Startup
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Digital Media Marketing
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Legal Linguistics
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Chemistry of Currently Produced Materials and Technologies
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Computer Engineering of High-Energy Systems
What makes studying under the pilot project different?
It is precisely the involvement of employers and the all-around competencies associated with big data, management, and others that make the programs special. The new programs are more aimed toward the job market, so applicants are expected to know what they plan on doing in the future.
Students pursuing basic programs in chemistry, technical physics, and other fields will also have to expect more practical tasks in the workload, which includes continuous enterprise internships that can take up to a half year.
Regardless, the fundamental aspects will remain, ensuring that the students receive training in critical thinking. They are an innate part of a classical university that hones its traditions, which will contribute to a graduate’s competitiveness on the job market.
Will the study period in the pilot programs change?
In certain programs, yes. For example, the legal studies program, which used to last four years, will take five years to complete because the job market demands graduates have a master’s degree in legal studies as well.
Bachelor’s programs in complex, knowledge-intensive fields such as mechatronics and robotics will be replaced with higher education programs lasting five years: The increased study period will be enough to train professionals ready for conducting applied, knowledge-intensive research.
To learn more, contact: int.admissions@mail.tsu.ru