WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE?

Transcription

1 WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE? FOR FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION IN MALTA NCHE MA LT A National Commission for Higher Education

2 What do you want to be? Student Guide for Further and Higher Education in Malta A publication of the National Commission for Higher Education printed in Malta in November 2009 National Commission for Higher Education Old University Building Valletta, Malta Tel.: (+356) Fax: (+356) Mail: info.nche@gov.mt Web: National Commission for Higher Education Disclaimer The National Commission for Higher Education (NCHE) has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, to keep the publication updated with the latest information available, and to keep the website links updated and available online. However, in no event will NCHE be liable for any prejudice, loss or damage whatsoever arising from reference made to this publication. Students are advised to refer to the different agencies and official regulations in place at the time information is required. Any reliance placed on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. This publication contains links to websites directing you to the official websites which may provide you with further information. In view of this, NCHE does not provide quality control of such external links, and takes no responsibility in the case that the website links are temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control. Moreover, the information contained in this publication is subject to ongoing change. ISBN no:

3 The Education System in Malta Where to study in Malta - Main Further and Higher Education Institutions Studying Abroad Funding Schemes Student Life

4 Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. Nelson Mandela Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire. Genius without education is like silver in the mine. Benjamin Franklin W. B. Yeats Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner every where. Chinese Proverb The important thing is not to stop questioning. Albert Einstein

5 Welcome For those of you at the crossroads needing to take a decision as to what to study in the coming years and want to know more about the various study options that exist in different education institutions, this guide should help you find the information you need. Further Education is the next step after completing compulsory school. All students can continue their studies, and today numerous opportunities are available to continue studying in higher secondary schools, private sixth forms or in vocational education and training in preparation for your future career. Higher Education follows further education. It s an opportunity to advance in your studies and obtain a University Degree in Malta or abroad. The guide is intended to give an overview of: different levels of qualifications the structure of the further and higher education system key institutions that provide further and higher education main considerations for studying abroad funding schemes to support students during their studies a window into student life and student organisations Follow this link to find all information and links available on this guide: Everyone has the potential to achieve to great heights. You need to work hard and apply yourself, search and find out about the different opportunities that exist around you. I hope this guide helps you in your lifelong journey to learning. Christine Scholz Commission Officer, National Commission for Higher Education 3

6 1 EXPLORE easy steps when making the most important choices in your life Explore all options and possibilities available and think of what you really enjoy doing. Ask about those careers which really interest you and you think you can become good at; 2 ASK Ask as many people around you what they know about the career you wish to follow, what type of qualifications are normally required, and what new opportunities are developing in the future; 3 VISIT Visit a potential employer or persons who work in the same area and discover what types of specialist skills and knowledge are really important. Speak to employers and see what other skills you should be working on (language skills, IT, sport, team work, leadership, managerial, etc.); 4 SEEK Seek advice from the guidance teachers in your school or in the guidance office of different institutions; 5 OBTAIN Obtain a copy of the prospectus of studies for the next academic year of different institutions. These are normally also available on their websites and are free to download; 6 COMPARE Once you obtain information on the different openings you can then start making comparisons about the different courses available: Which institutions give courses in your area of interest (private or public)? What are the entry requirements you would need? What are the possible options (full-time or part-time)? What are the costs involved? Are the final qualifications awarded recognised and of a high reputation with future employers? 7 CONSIDER Consider the opportunities of following part of your course in a foreign institution or university and see if the institutions offer student exchange opportunities for the course; 8 LEARN Learn about the different funding schemes to support you in your studies. Student support is available both for those studying in Malta in public and private institutions and for those who continue studying abroad on short exchanges or for full degree programmes; 4 9 VISIT Visit the institutions before making your choice and meet students and lecturers to see how you feel about your future study place; 10 TAKE TIME Take all the feedback and information into consideration and take time to reflect on your options. Keep an open mind to new opportunities and don t be afraid of taking a risk into taking up new areas of study that perhaps very few have taken so far. Finally, choose something that truly makes you excited and gives you personal satisfaction.

7 The Education System in Malta

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9 General Information Everyone between the ages of 5 and 16 is entitled to free education in all state schools. On completion of Form 5, marking the end of compulsory secondary education, students may sit for the Secondary Education Certificate Examination (SEC). Successful candidates may choose to continue into the postsecondary academic route or enter into the labour market, including applying for positions within the Maltese public service. Vocational education may take the form of apprenticeships, (which are part-time studies and parttime training on-the-job); as well as studies at different vocational institutions in Malta, such as the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) or the Malta Centre for Restoration. The post-secondary academic route, known as Sixth Form, lasts for two years. Upon completion students may take the Matriculation Certificate Examination (MATSEC) to progress to higher education. The figure below outlines the Maltese Education System from primary to higher education. It also explains the different entry and transition requirements to specific stages of the education system. Use this guide to obtain information on the different levels of education depending on your current starting point. Students Progression from Compulsory to Further and Higher Education Non-Compulsory Education 18 yrs < Higher Education Academic Strand Vocational Strand Matriculation Certificate Examinations yrs Further Education Academic Strand Vocational Strand Secondary Education Certificate Examinations Compulsory Education yrs Secondary Education 5-11 yrs Primary Education 3-5 yrs Kindergarten 7

10 Different levels of qualifications The Malta Qualifications Framework is a table which maps all different qualifications against eight different levels. All qualifications of level 1-5 are referred to as Further education qualifications, and all qualifications and degrees of levels 6-8 are referred to as Higher education qualifications in this guide. The Malta Qualifications Council (MQC) is responsible for this framework and for mapping all qualifications to the different levels. Another centre, the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC), is responsible for referencing all foreign qualifications to these levels. Students should always be aware of the different levels of their qualifications since this will be important in the future when applying for work which requires qualifications of a specific level. The benefit of the framework is that it allows students and their families to better understand the different levels of qualifications in an education system or how they can progress in that system. Employers also use the levels to understand the type of qualifications, and education institutions use the levels when developing their courses and study programmes. Malta s National Qualifications Framework 8 Doctoral Degree 8 7 Master s Degree Postgraduate Diploma Postgraduate Certificate 7 Find out more about Malta qualifications Framework on: 6 Bachelor s Degree 6 5 Undergraduate Diploma Undergraduate Certificate VET Highr Diploma 5 4 Martriculation Certificate Advanced Level Intermediate Level VET Diploma 4 e 3 General Education Level 3 SEC Grade 1 5 VET Level 3 3 d 2 1 General Education Level 2 SEC Grade 6 7 General Education Level 1 School Leaving Certificate VET Level 2 VET Level 1 2 c 1 a/b 8

11 A quick map of the main types of institutions The following tables outline the structure of further and higher education and the key institutions that operate at different levels. For a detailed list of all private schools, colleges and licensed institutions refer to the website links on the NCHE website. Further Education Public Private Academic Vocational Academic & Vocational Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School Sir M.A Refalo Post- Secondary Complex, Gozo Ìian Fran isk Abela Junior College, University of Malta, Msida Institute for Tourism Studies (ITS) Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) See list of approved providers on gov.mt/institutions Higher Education Public Private Academic Vocational Academic & Vocational University of Malta Institute for Tourism Studies (ITS) Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) See list of approved providers on gov.mt/institutions 9

12 Qualifications offered by Malta Qualifications Framework Level Institution Higher Secondary and Sixth Forms MCAST ITS University of Malta Level 2 Level 3 Secondary Education Certificate (revision courses) Foundation Certificate VET First Diploma; VET Certificate Foundation Certificate VET Certificate Level 4 Matriculation Certificate, International Baccalaureate VET Diploma; VET Certificate VET Diploma Level 5 VET Higher National Diploma VET Higher National Diploma Undergraduate Diploma/Certificate Level 6 Bachelor Bachelor Level 7 Level 8 Postgraduate Certificate; Postgraduate Diploma; Masters Doctorate 10

13 Agencies that provide important services related to Further and Higher Education The Malta Qualifications Council (MQC) The Malta Qualifications Council (MQC) is responsible for the development of the Malta National Qualifications Framework, which includes all qualifications across compulsory, vocational and academic sectors into one single framework. The Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQIRC) The Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC) is the national body responsible for the recognition of both Maltese and foreign academic and vocational qualifications. All those seeking formal recognition of qualifications awarded by a foreign institution or university should request a recognition statement from MQRIC. MQRIC also assists persons who want to use their Maltese qualifications abroad and need a formal statement from Maltese authorities. It does this through the European Network of Information Centres (ENIC) to make it easier for Maltese to work and study abroad. European Unions Programme Agency (EUPA) The European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) supports Maltese individuals and institutions to receive funding under the various educational programmes of the European Union. Individuals can benefit from scholarships of the European Union s Lifelong Learning Programme, which supports mobile learners from childhood to old age (see chapter 4 on funding schemes). Institutions, on the other hand, can receive project funding to support co-operation and mobility, to promote best practices in the field of education and become a world quality reference. The National Commission for Higher Education (NCHE) NCHE MA LT A National Commission for Higher Education The National Commission for Higher Education (NCHE) is an advisory body to the Government on further and higher education policy. NCHE works closely with all institutions, staff and student representatives and authorities, particularly the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport. It also develops the national strategy for further and higher education and provides stakeholders with research, data and information about the sector. 11

14 Academic Calendar of the different Further and Higher Education Institutions in Malta September October November Beginning of Semester 1 December January February Christmas Recess Examination Session Beginning of Semester 2 March April May Easter Recess Examination Session June July August Examination Session Summer Recess Summer Recess 12 Some Higher Education Institutions also work during summer

15 Where to study in Malta - Main Further and Higher Education Institutions

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17 Sixth Forms Sixth Forms are the general strand of post-secondary education in Malta and a stepping stone to higher education. The two years of Sixth Form prepare students for the Matriculation Certificate Examinations, which open the door for university studies. For subject options available under MATSEC visit Students can choose to enrol in public and private Sixth Forms or Church Sixth Forms. State and Church sixth forms are free of charge. However students in Church sixth forms may choose to make voluntary donations to the school while private sixth forms charge fees. Students attending approved sixth forms are eligible for Students Maintenance Grants. Public Sixth Forms Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School Sir M.A Refalo Post-Secondary Complex, Gozo schoolnet.gov.mt/smarc Ìian Fran isk Abela Junior College, University of Malta, Msida Church Sixth Forms De La Salle College St. Aloysious College Private Sixth Forms Verdala International School St.Martin s College St.Edward s College 15

18 Institute for Tourism Studies (ITS) Situated in St. George s Bay, St. Julian s, the Institute for Tourism Studies is a vocational education institution. ITS trains students for a professional career within the Hospitality Sector. So if you are looking for an applied and professionally oriented programme in the field of Hospitality and Tourism, ITS is the right institution for you. The Institute for Tourism Studies was established in 1987 and today it also offers courses in its Gozo Training Centre. Information on available courses Information on the full-time and part-time courses offered by ITS for the academic year is available on the ITS prospectus. While Maltese and EU nationals may enrol free of charge in the full-time courses of ITS, variable fees are charged for the part-time courses. All links to this information are available at Hospitality and Tourism Management Travel Agency Operations Hotel Operations ITS Tour Guiding Accommodation Operations Food Preparation and Production Useful Facilities Food and Beverage Service Guidance and Counselling Library International Office 16 Contact Institute for Tourism Studies, Bajja San Gorg, San Giljan, STJ 02, Malta. Tel: , help.its@gov.mt, Web:

19 Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) is situated at Corradino in Paola. It is the main institution offering vocational education in Malta. The College also gives its students the opportunity to pursue their studies up to higher education. MCAST offers a variety of vocational programmes that give you the option to enter and exit different courses from entry level to Diploma, Higher National Diploma and in certain cases vocational Degree levels. MCAST is also working towards becoming a Community College that is flexible to meet the lifelong learning needs of adult learners. History MCAST is a young institution established in September It brought together a number of already established institutes and created new ones. MCAST today is the largest vocational education and training institution with over 4,000 students and 400 members of staff. Structure and fields of study MCAST is headed by the Chairman of the Board of Governors and is run by the Principal and the Heads of different MCAST Institutes. A number of industry representatives also participate in the various structures to ensure that the courses are designed with the needs of different industries in mind. Business and Commerce Institute (Paola) Institute of Information and Communication Technology (Paola) Maritime Institute (Kalkara) Art and Design Institute (Mosta) MCAST Agribusiness Institute (Qormi) Electronics and Electrical Engineering Institute (Paola) Mechanical Engineering Institute (Paola) Building and Construction Engineering Institute (Naxxar) Institute of Community Services (Paola, with branches in Sliema & Msida) 17

20 Information on available courses Information on the full-time and part-time courses offered by MCAST for any academic year is available in the MCAST prospectus. Maltese and EU nationals can follow full-time programmes free of charge whilst short and part-time courses are subject to a fee. All links to this information is available at Useful Facilities Student Support Information Centre Library and Learning Resource Centre International Office Sports Department Contact MCAST Main Campus, Triq Kordin, Paola, PLA 9032, Malta. Tel: Fax: information@mcast.edu.mt Web: Map: 18

21 The University of Malta The University of Malta is the main provider of higher education in Malta and is situated in Tal-Qroqq, Msida. If you want to study a degree programme, then the University of Malta is your destination. Conscious of its public role, the University strives to create courses which are relevant to the needs of the country so as to provide expertise in crucial fields. A University degree will help you become a highly qualified professional, with experience of research, capable of playing a leadership role in industry, commerce, community services and public affairs in general. History of the University The University boasts a rich history and traces its origins back to 1592, set up by direct papal intervention as the Collegium Melitense. In 1768, Grand Master Pinto established a Pubblica Università di Studi Generali, and since then the University continued to evolve and reform in line with different foreign orders governing the island. Currently the University of Malta is regulated under the 1988 Education Act. Since then, it has expanded to cover more fields of teaching and research for thousands of students compared to a few hundreds in the past. Structure and fields of study Today the University is headed by the Rector with the Council and the Senate as the two main decisionmaking bodies. More than 10,000 students including over 750 foreign students follow courses from undergraduate to postgraduate level in its eleven different faculties: Economics, Management & Accountancy Laws Information & Communication Technology Science Medicine & Surgery Theology University of Malta Dental Surgery Arts Education Engineering Architecture & Civil Engineering 19

22 Information on available courses Detailed information for students on enrolment procedures and available courses at the University of Malta are available at or on the website of the Registrar at Maltese and EU nationals can follow any undergraduate course offered by the University of Malta free of charge. Non-EU national as well as students enrolled in part-time or graduate courses are charged tuition fees, bench fees and examination fees. Please check the website of the Finance Office of the University of Malta for details on the course fees of your programme of choice: home.um.edu.mt/finance/finance_office-fees.htm Useful Facilities Office of the Registrar Counselling Services Library Services ACCESS - Disability Support Unit International & EU Office Kids Point Chaplaincy Sports facilities Contact University of Malta Msida, MSD 2080, Malta. Tel: Fax: Web: Map: 20

23 Private provision of Higher Education A number of authorised private providers in Malta offer further and higher education courses. Many offer courses which lead to a qualification from foreign Institutions or Universities. Students are advised to check with the MaltaQRIC requesting a statement of recognition and comparability to the Malta Qualifications Framework before enrolling, in order to be assured that the qualifications will be recognised on completion. Private providers charge tuition fees, however a number of schemes exist to support students following different types of courses. Chapter 4 of this guide helps you understand which courses in the private sector benefit from such support either to cover part or all of the tuition fees or to give maintenance support during the term of studies. A list of licensed providers is available on 21

24 Malta part of a European Education Area The European Community was formed more than half a century ago in This quickly developed from what was initially an economically motivated project into a deeper political cooperation between European States. Today citizens of the European Union enjoy freedom of movement throughout its Member States. All European countries are working together to ensure transparency and cooperation in education, making freedom of movement a reality for everyone in Europe. Amongst others, cooperation is being sought in: Improving recognition through easily readable and comparable degrees Putting the student at the centre of the learning process Improving the quality of education Promoting mobility of students and teachers Improving the social dimension of education systems and Making education more relevant to the labour market Various European processes exist, namely: the Bologna Process for Higher Education the Copenhagen Process for Vocational Education and Training the European Union s Lifelong Learning Programme which supports mobility. The Processes have left visible marks on the Maltese Higher Education System, for example in the implementation of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), the development of the Diploma Supplement, the establishment of the Malta Qualifications Framework and the movement towards a national quality assurance system for Malta. 22

25 Studying Abroad

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27 Why study abroad? Have you ever considered immersing yourself in a different culture while learning a new language? Do you aspire to internationalise your degree? Studying in a foreign country will add to your academic experience in all senses. It has become an essential component for stronger personal development, wider job opportunities as well as effective networking with professional people. In today s global economy, being given the opportunity to give yourself a competitive edge and making your résumé stand out are a few of the motivational factors to go study abroad. Studying abroad also instils independence, self-confidence and maturity. Employers value these traits, as well as the ability to adapt to new situations and to set and achieve goals. Where shall I go? You are looking for a stimulating destination, but which country should you go to? Which university should you choose? What do you need before you leave? What will happen when you arrive? These are just some of the questions you re probably asking yourself already. Undoubtedly, a well-informed decision will make your time abroad even more valuable. One chooses a destination according to one s interests and needs. But while a country may be ideal for a particular field of study, it may not meet ones expectations in other respects, such as cost of living, language, culture or climate. One should bear in mind these aspects before heading abroad. Moreover, the following checklists will definitely help you plan your mobility period. 25

28 15 Questions to organise your mobility period Before applying Do you want to go for a semester during your programme or for a full degree? Which study programme and institution do you want to go to? Will the courses, programme and institution of studies be recognised in Malta upon return? Which funding opportunities exist? On being accepted Have you notified the relevant authorities of your acceptance? Have you applied for funding for your mobility period? Do you need a visa? Are you fluent in the language of your host country? Have you sorted out your health insurance abroad? Have you sorted out your accommodation? Have you booked your flight? Which documents will you need abroad (like academic certificates or transcripts)? On arriving in your host country Do you have the following documents? Valid passport or other valid travel document Certificates and diplomas European Health Insurance Card Have you registered yourself at the citizenship department? Have you opened a bank account? 26

29 What type of mobility period shall I opt for? One can either go abroad for a short-term exchange period during one s programme of studies or study an entire degree abroad. Weigh your options carefully by looking into all information available. What administrative support is available? Information and support is available from various sources depending on your needs. However the key sources you should get in touch with are: The International Office of your education institution see chapter 2 Your local student organisation in Malta and your host country see chapter 5 EURes the European job mobility portal - The Embassy of your host country in Malta and the Maltese Embassy in your host country - mt.embassyinformation.com How can I get my qualifications recognised? It is very important that any studies to be undertaken abroad are verified for their recognition status in Malta before accepting to go abroad. There are excellent opportunities in foreign institutions; however it is important to be aware that certain institutions which do not offer recognised qualifications may exist. These are referred to as degree mills. Getting your qualifications recognised prevents you from having to repeat courses and degrees followed abroad upon your return to Malta. The key instruments for recognition of foreign courses and qualifications are: 1. A learning agreement between your Maltese education institution and your host institution abroad that indicates which modules will be followed abroad and how these modules will be recognised by your institution in Malta. 2. A recognition and comparability report issued by the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC), as an official verification of the status of the foreign institution and qualification as recognised by the authorities in Malta. To request recognition of a foreign qualification, the following supporting documents must be submitted: A certified copy of your qualification (such as degree, diploma, certificate, etc.) A certified copy of the transcript showing subjects, number of hours and examination results. Certified authenticated translations into Maltese or English of any documents originally issued in a language other than Maltese or English. 3. The Europass Mobility record indicates your mobility experience in another European country for the purpose of learning or training. For the issuing of a Europass Mobility document, one may contact training.etc@gov.mt. 27

30 What are the costs of living abroad? One major factor when deciding where to study abroad is to consider the costs that the period will incur. This usually depends on the economic situation of the host country and the length of your stay. Costs you should calculate before you go include food, accommodation, transport, communication and social life. Search websites of student organisations and foreign embassies to get an idea of the economic conditions in your host country. Furthermore, check whether you are eligible for the different support schemes available for student mobility (see chapter 4). How do I obtain a residence permit or a visa for my host country? On joining the European Union, Maltese citizens became free to reside in any of the European Union member states. Nevertheless, a visa may be required to reside in some non-eu countries. Information about visa requirements may be retrieved from the Ministry of Foreign affairs website: To reside in a Member State for a period exceeding 3 months, one needs to register with the local authorities. It is advisable to learn about the residence requirements of the chosen destination prior to your departure by contacting the office of the foreign embassy in Malta: mt.embassyinformation.com How do I organise my health insurance during my mobility period? The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) ensures health cover when in a foreign European Member State in the event of unforeseen need of medical treatment. Nevertheless, additional healthcare in your host country is required if you intend to stay for a longer period. More information on the healthcare system of the country of destination may be obtained from the EURes website: ec.europa.eu/eures/index.jsp What are the regulations related to working during my mobility period? Maltese citizens are free to work in any country of the European Union and are subject to the same regulations as the workers of the host country. More information about seeking employment in your host country as a student may be obtained from EURes: The National Union of Students in your host country will also be willing to answer any questions you may have regarding employment. Contact details of all the National Unions of Students may be found on 28

31 Funding Schemes

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33 Support for your journey into further and Higher Education Whether you are a student entering sixth form or a vocational programme for the first time, a student planning to continue studying at University, or an adult considering options to return to education, a number of schemes are available to support you throughout your journey into further and higher education. The National Commission for Higher Education (NCHE) has developed a guide containing all funding schemes available in Malta that support courses leading to qualifications included in the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF). Such schemes, which may be accessed online, will help you find the right financial support scheme. Following is a map guiding you to the main schemes available, depending on the type of education you intend to follow. A brief description of these schemes has also been prepared for you, together with detailed regulations on each funding scheme: 31

34 These schemes will take you where you want to go: Vocational Education SMG ESTS TAS MyPotential TSS TAF Higher Education SMG MyPotential TSS TAF MGSS-UG MGSS-PG STEPS CGCB 32 Education Abroad TSS TAF MGSS-UG MGSS-PG STEPS CGCB EU - LLP Erasmus Mundus YSSS

35 Student Maintenance Grants (SMG) Student Maintenance Grants support students at public and private sixth forms, vocational colleges such as MCAST and ITS and the University of Malta. Students receive a monthly grant during their academic year. The grants vary according to the level of studies and the programme one chooses. Students from Gozo receive a special grant to attend institutions in Malta and students with particular hardships can also apply for additional support. My Potential My Potential promotes lifelong learning in the field of Information and Communication Technologies. It supports educational providers in this field and increases the affordability of ICT certifications. Benefits of the scheme include 25% discounts on low-end ICT certifications, customised loan packages and tax credits on tuition costs. Extended Skills Training Scheme (ESTS) & Technician Apprenticeship Scheme (TAS) The Apprenticeship Schemes assist students following vocational education, whereby an apprentice follows a training programme at a vocational educational institution and carries out on-the-job training at a place of work. Two funding schemes support learners: Extended Skills Training Scheme (ESTS) for qualifications at craftsman level Technician Apprenticeship Scheme (TAS) for qualifications at technician level The apprentice, the employer and the Education and Training Corporation (ETC) share responsibility for the apprenticeship. While the employer pays the apprentice an agreed salary, the funding scheme provides additional support in the form of maintenance grants. Training Subsidy Scheme (TSS) This scheme supports self-employed persons and those working in micro-enterprises of 10 or less employees to develop their skills by participating in further off-the-job vocational education and training. It offers grants of 75% of the training costs, up to a maximum of 1,000. Training Aid Framework (TAF) The Training Aid Framework is an incentive for local companies to invest in their human resources. The subsidy varies according to the type of training and the size of the enterprise from 4,000 to 10,000 per trainee per year. Training can be either in-house or out-sourced, given in Malta or abroad, and may even lead to a doctorate degree. 33

36 Malta Government Scholarship Scheme (MGSS) This scholarship is available both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. The Malta Government Scholarships Undergraduate Scheme (MGSS-UG) supports students in full-time undergraduate courses in a private Higher Education Institution in Malta or abroad. It provides maintenance grants for the duration of the course and does not cover tuition fees. The Malta Government Scholarships Postgraduate Scheme (MGSS-PG) aims to attract more students in postgraduate courses at both Masters and Doctoral levels. Students following courses in public or private Higher Education Institutions, both in Malta or abroad, and on a part-time or full-time basis as well as through distance learning, are eligible. The scheme provides grants for both tuition and subsistence. A travel allowance is available for those studying abroad, and additional support is available for spouses and their children and for Gozitan residents studying in Malta.. Strategic Educational Pathways Scholarships (STEPS) The Strategic Educational Pathway Scholarships (STEPS) supports students pursuing a Masters or Doctorate Programme in Malta or abroad. It is similar to the MGSS Postgraduate Scheme with variations in grants for Science and ICT. 34 STEPS provides grants for tuition and subsistence for full-time programmes in Malta or abroad. Higher grants are available for studies in priority areas namely Information and Communication Technology and Science and Technology. Part-time and distance Master programmes grants cover tuition expenses only. A travel allowance is available for those studying abroad, and additional support is available for spouses and their children and for Gozitan residents studying in Malta. Career Guidance Capacity Building (CGCB) This scholarship aims at supporting postgraduate students in pursuing a Diploma or Masters Programme in the field of Career Guidance in Malta or abroad. Both part-time and distance learning programmes cover tuition fees and travel allowances.

37 Youth Specialisation Studies Scheme (YSSS) This joint scheme between the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport and APS Bank provides soft loans to graduate and postgraduate students pursuing studies abroad or through distance learning, which are otherwise not provided in Malta. It offers beneficial rates and repayment terms on the loan. The European Union Lifelong Learning Programme (EU-LLP) The Lifelong Learning Programme supports mobile learners in the European Union from young to senior citizens. It is built on four pillars: 1. The Comenius programme supports schools in strengthening the European dimension in their curriculum; 2. The Erasmus programme promotes mobility of students, academics and general administrative staff in higher education institutions; 3. The Leonardo da Vinci programme supports exchanges of best practice and developing the skills of learners to build a skilled workforce across Europe; 4. The Grundtvig programme promotes the European dimension in adult education and lifelong learning across Europe. The European Union Erasmus Mundus Programme (EM) Erasmus Mundus is a worldwide cooperation and mobility programme that aims to enhance quality in higher education and promotes intercultural understanding. It provides financial support to higher education institutions to build joint programmes at Masters and Doctorate level as well as generous scholarships for European Union and Non-EU nationals alike to enrol in these programmes. 35

38 Funding Schemes available per level of the Malta Qualification Framework Level Qualification ESTS TAS Leonardo Da Vinci My Potential SMG MGSS - UG MGSS - PG STEPS CGCB YSSS ERASMUS ERASMUS MUNDUS TSS TAF 8 DOCTORAL DEGREE 7 MASTERS DEGREE POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE 6 BACHLOR S DEGREE 5 UNDERGRADUATE DIPLOMA UNDERGRADUATE CERTIFICATE VET HIGHER DIPLOMA 4 MATRICULATION LEVEL ADVANCED LEVEL INTERMEDIATE LEVEL VET DIPLOMA 3 GENERAL EDUCATION LEVEL 3 SEC grade 1-5 VET LEVEL 3 2 GENERAL EDUCATION LEVEL 3 SEC grade 6-7 VET LEVEL 2 1 GENERAL EDUCATION LEVEL 1 SCHOOL LEAVING CERTIFICATE VET LEVEL 1 36

39 Student Life

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41 Enrich your personal and academic life by investing in your student life! Making the most out of your university education does not only mean gaining good academic grades but also experiencing your student life to the fullest. Student life involves networking, teamwork, partying, gaining personal and social skills and much more. It helps your overall personal development and it s what makes your years at university amongst the most memorable in your life. Student and youth organisations highly contribute to the further promotion of this, particularly through organising or supporting entertainment and cultural events. Every school or institution has a student council which organises a number of annual activities and a number of organisations that carry out extracurricular projects that are fun but also lead to new learning experiences outside the classroom. The Campus at the University of Malta has a variety of student organisations related to socio-political, religious or cultural interest, leisure and entertainment activities, as well as opportunities abroad. Most importantly, these student organisations offer their members the possibility of being active whilst at University. Why do student organisations exist? A student organisation is the equivalent to the voice of the students within decision-making bodies. The active contribution of a student organisation potentially leads to positive change, improves academic standards and helps to actively shape the learning environment for all students. So be Active and find a student organisation that suits your interests! The more active you are, the more you will benefit from your educational experience. Involvement gives you the opportunity to make an impact and leave your mark at your educational institution. Participation enhances ones interpersonal dynamics and creates leaders. Where can I be active? Il-Kunsill ta l-istudenti Universitarji (KSU) is the oldest national student union in Europe. It exists to represent students attending the University, Junior College, the Institute of Health Care, Medical School and the Malta Centre of Restoration and to meet their needs. The MCAST Students Council is also entrusted with the representation of students attending the various institutes whilst the ITS Students Council is crucial in defending the rights of students both during their course of studies and during their international placement. The main objectives of such organisations include defending student rights, encouraging student participation in seminars, cultural and recreational activities and the sharing of experiences of students with other students, both local and foreign. Socio-political organisations, such as SDM, The Maltese Christian Democrat Students and PULSE, the Social Democrat Students, are the ideal forum where students can express and share their ideas whilst contributing to policies being developed on the national political level. Other organisations like AEGEE Valletta and AIESEC Malta attempt to inject an international element to the local atmosphere, by offering young people a platform for youth leadership and the opportunity to be global citizens. They also ensure that the experience of local, Erasmus and international students at the University of Malta is an unforgettable one. Faculty-based organisations provide an important platform where students with common interests can meet in an informal setting and discuss matters related to their academic sphere. Betapsi, the psychology students 39

42 association represents all Maltese psychology students and ensures that their rights and interests are safeguarded, whilst the European Law Students Association (ELSA Malta) and G SL, l-g aqda Studenti tal-ligi, play an essential role in the law students academic experience and maintain a link between the faculty of laws and the students through representation. MPSA, the Malta Pharmaceutical Students Association represents pharmaceutical students within the pharmacy department, whilst MMSA, the Malta Medical Students Association, represents students as well as acts as a liaison between the faculty and the medical students, ensuring that the faculty produces well trained and holistically professional doctors. Other active youth organisations include the sports club MUSC which advocates the importance of sports, health and fitness, the students catholic movement MKSU established to promote Christian values as well as activist movements such as Moviment Graffiti, who are active against the oppression and exploitation of people, environment and animals, with a vision of freedom and radical democracy. More information on other student and youth organisations may be found on Networking Recreation Learning Student Life Representation Participation 40

43 The choice is yours