II. Studying in Hungary

Transcription

1 . Studying in Hungary Hungarian Nobel Prize winners 1905_Lenárd Fülöp X-rays 1914_Bárány Róbert physiology and pathology of the vestibular apparatus 1925_Zsigmondy Richárd colloid chemistry 1937_Szent-Györgyi Albert Vitamin C and the catalysis of fumaric acid (in Hungarian paprika) 1943_Hevesy György isotopes as tracers 1961_Békésy György stimulation within the cochlea 1963_Wigner Jenô structure of the atom and its nucleus (atomic bomb and nuclear engineering) 1971_Dennis Gábor holography 1986_John Polányi elucidate energy relationships 1994_Oláh György ingredients of oil and natural gas 1994_Harsányi János equilibrium in the theory of non-co-operative games Hungarian higher education is again an integral part of the international higher education system of Europe. The increasing number of students, departments, professors and the democratically appointed leadership of the autonomous universities and colleges co-operate in the necessary development of higher education in accordance with the Bologna Statement. The Bologna experience turned attention to those questions that were put forward by the European Union as well in order to ensure the free flow of workforce and intellectual assets. Among these, the achievement of greater compatibility and comparability of the requirements and the assessment, the preservation of cultural heritage and the competitiveness of diplomas in the work market constitute as the most significant challenges. Consequently, the reform program of the past decade and the improvement of relations and co-operation of Hungarian higher education were considered with special attention to such issues. During the 1990s the number of students in Hungarian higher education increased significantly. Elite education has been replaced by mass instruction. Today, more than one-third of university age Hungarians participate in higher education. The mid-range perspective for higher education policy is to provide higher education to every second young Hungarian. Another important goal is to reform the training structure, by ensuring a multi-level training system (with multiple possible outcomes) as suggested in the Bologna Statement. The integration of the previously fragmented institutional system led to the successful establishment of multidisciplinary universities and colleges with multiple faculties serving as regional and professional intellectual centres. The credit-system will be introduced at every institution from September This should provide a more flexible training structure and greater student mobility. 23

2 These issues are especially important given the exceptionally wide range of educational options the number of majors available is approximately 4,000. A large number of students (approximately half of all admitted applicants) have the opportunity to complete their studies with the financial support of the state. Several other grants and allowances are also available (e.g., Bursa Hungarica Scholarships, student loans, social allowances based on educational achievement). The number of students participating in in-service retraining programs is also growing. This suggests that the educational structure has to develop with increasing interest in life-long learning in mind. In summary, Hungarian universities and colleges entered the 21 st century with similar challenges and development programs as those of European higher education in general. The outstanding achievements of the previous century innovations, Nobel-prizes, institutions of excellent reputation bode well for retaining quality education in the future. STRUCTURE Higher Education System Two types of institutions issue higher education diplomas in Hungary: universities (after 5-6 years of study) and colleges (after 3-4 years of study). The relatively new type of high level vocational training programs also offer practical education in two years providing competitive qualifications. Since 1993, higher education institutions offer both tuition based and state financed training. Every student can obtain one degree that is financed by the state, on the condition that they have been successfully admitted to an institution of higher education. In considering the forms of education, a number of choices are available. There are regular, correspondence, and evening courses, as well as distance education programs. 24

3 STRUCTURE Students can obtain second degrees or complete supplementary training to their existing diplomas. In addition to state universities and colleges, a number of religious and private institutions have been established. These generally offer tuition based courses (often without requiring entrance examinations for admission). Some of these institutions are subsidised by the state. This generally means free tuition for certain majors (e.g. social work training in religious universities and colleges). The capital of the country plays a significant role in higher education. Ministries, organisations dealing with higher education as well as most universities and colleges are located in Budapest. Approximately half of the students in Hungarian higher education study in the capital. The Office of the Government Commissioner for Educational Rights (Oktatási Jogok Biztosának Hivatala) 1055 Budapest, Szalay u (1) The Hungarian Accreditation Committee (Magyar Akkreditációs Bizottság) ensures the soundness of educational programs, while the quality and content of training are guarded by the Higher Education Science Council (Felsôoktatási Tudományos Tanács). The necessary requirements for introducing a new major are determined in co-operation with other ministries such as education, defence and health. From the school year of 2002/2003 most higher education institutions will also adjust to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Institutions are currently negotiating the acceptance of credits. Coming to full agreement might take some time, but the goal is unanimous: completed studies and requirements should correspond to each other at various institutions, thus ensuring greater student mobility. This also can help those foreign students studying in Hungary when it comes to getting credits at their home institution for their studies abroad. The rights of students are protected by multiple organisations and government offices. In case of an injury, any participant in the education system (institution, applicant, student, parent) can turn to the Office of the Government Commissioner for Educational Rights. Possible infringement of lawful rights will be examined with the insurance of full anonymity for the complainant. In the case of a legitimate complaint, the Office will prepare a resolution proposal for the violator. This proposal is influential, but not legally binding. The National Office of Higher Education Admissions (Országos Felsôoktatási Felvételi Iroda) is responsible for the co-ordination and implementation of the admission procedures as well as for providing official information to those interested 25

4 STRUCTURE through its publications, Website ( and information service office. The Office works in close co-operation with higher education institutions and the Ministry of Education. Universities and Colleges Following is the list of Hungarian higher education institutions as well as foreign institutions with permission to operate in Hungary. The telephone numbers for these institutions were selected with special attention to offices that provide details about foreign language training. STATE UNIVERSITIES Budapesti Közgazdaságtudományi és Államigazga tási Egyetem (Budapest University of Economic Sciences and Public Administration) Budapest International Studies Center (ISC) 1093 Budapest, Fôvám tér 8. Room 136 and 153 (36-1) Office for International Relations 1093 Budapest, Fôvám tér 8.. em (36-1) Faculty of Business Administration Faculty of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences Faculty of Public Administration 1118 Budapest, Ménesi út 5. Budapesti Mûszaki és Gazdaságtudományi Egyetem (Budapest University of Technology and Economics) Budapest BUTE International Education Center (IEC) 1111 Budapest, Bertalan Lajos u. 2. (36-1) Office for International Relations 1111 Budapest, Mûegyetem rkp. 3. K épület, mfsz. 8. (36-1) ijjas@vit.bme.hu Faculty of Civil Engineering Faculty of Architecture Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Faculty of Ecomomic and Social Sciences Faculty of Transportation Engineering 1111 Budapest, Bertalan Lajos u. 2 Faculty of Natural Sciences Faculty of Chemical Engineering Faculty of Electrical Engineereing and Informatics 1111 Budapest, Egri József u Debreceni Egyetem (University of Debrecen) Debrecen Medical Education Program for International Students (36-52) , (36-52) info@shanty.edu.dote.hu International Office 4010 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1 (36-52) internationaloffice@admin.unideb.hu Centre of Agricultural Sciences International Section 4032 Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138. (36-52) audis@helios.date.hu 26

5 STRUCTURE Faculty of Medicine Faculty of Arts 4010 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1. Faculty of Health, Nyíregyháza 4400 Nyíregyháza, Sóstói u Wargha István Faculty of Education, Hajdúböszörmény 4220 Hajdúböszörmény, Désány I. u Institute of Law 4010 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1. Conservatory 4032 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 2. Faculty of Economics and Business Administration 4028 Debrecen, Kassai u Faculty of Engineering 4028 Debrecen, Ótemetô út Faculty of Agriculture 4015 Debrecen, Böszörményi út Faculty of Science 4010 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1. Eötvös Loránd Tudományegyetem (Eötvös Loránd University) Budapest Rector s Office Educational and Research Organisation 1052 Budapest, Szerb u (36-1) , topor@ludens.elte.hu Faculty of Law and Political Science 1053 Budapest, Egyetem tér Faculty of Humanities 1052 Budapest, Pesti Barnabás u 1. Bárczi Gusztáv Faculty of Special Education 1097 Budapest, Ecseri út Institue of Sociology and Social Policy 1117 Budapest, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A. Faculty of Teacher Training 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy u Faculty of Nursery and Elementary School Teacher-training 1126 Budapest, Kiss János altb. u Faculty of Science 1088 Budapest, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A. Szent István Egyetem (St. Stephen University) Gödöllô International Affairs Office 2103 Gödöllô, Páter Károly u. 1. (36-28) palfalvy@gikk.szie.hu Socrates Office 1118 Budapest, Villányi út (36-1) plukacs@omega.kee.hu Faculty of Veterinary Science, Budapest 1078 Budapest, István utca 2. Secretariat of International Study Programs 1078 Budapest, István utca 2. (36-1) English, (36-1) German student@univet.hu Faculty of Food Science, Budapest 1118 Budapest, Villányi út Faculty of Mechanical Engineering 2103 Gödöllô, Páter Károly u Faculty of Economics and Business Administration Faculty of Agriculture, Gyöngyös 3200 Gyöngyös, Mátrai út Faculty of Teacher-training, Jászberény 5102 Jászberény, Rákóczi u Faculty of Horticulture, Budapest 1118 Budapest, Villányi út

6 STRUCTURE Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Studies BSc-MSc Postgradual Programmes 2103 Gödöllô, Páter Károly u. 1. (36-28) Faculty of Landscape Architecture, Protection and Development, Budapest Budapest, Villányi út Faculty of Ybl Miklós Polytechnik, Budapest Erasmus Office 1146 Budapest, Thököly u szoba (36-1) Kaposvári Egyetem (University of Kaposvár) Kaposvár Faculty of Animal Science 7401 Kaposvár, Guba Sándor u. 40. (36-82) Csokonai Vitéz Mihály Faculty of Teachertraining 7400 Kaposvár, Bajcsy-Zs. u 10. (36-82) Liszt Ferenc Zenem\ûvészeti Egyetem (Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music) Budapest International Department 1061 Budapest, Liszt Ferenc tér 8. (36-1) Magyar Iparmûvészeti Egyetem (Hungarian University of Craft and Design) Budapest International Relations Office 1121 Budapest, Zugligeti út (36-1) kulugy@mie.mie.hu Magyar Képzômûvészeti Egyetem (Hungarian University of Fine Arts) -Budapest International Office 1062 Budapest, Andrássy út (36-1) foreign@voyager.art7.hu Színház- és Filmmûvészeti Egyetem (Hungarian Academy of Drama and Film) Budapest, Vas u. 2/c. (36-1) Miskolci Egyetem (University of Miskolc) Miskolc Foreign Students Office 3515 Miskolc Egyetemváros (36-46) /1147 rekkhi@gold.uni-miskolc.hu Faculty of Law Faculty of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Bartók Béla Institute of Music Faculty of Arts Comenius Faculty of Teacher-training, Sárospatak Sárospatak, Eötvös u 7. Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Faculty of Economics Faculty of Mining Engineering Nyugat-Magyarországi Egyetem (University of West-Hungary) Sopron Assistant of the Vice-Rector for Education 9401 Sopron, Bajcsy Zs. u. 4. (36-99) edurec@nyme.hu Apáczai Csere János Faculty of Teacher-training 9022 Gyôr, Liszt Ferenc u Benedek Elek Faculty of Teacher-training 9400 Sopron, Ferenczi J. u Faculty of Forestry 9401 Sopron, Ady Endre u 5. Faculty of Geoinformatics 8002 Székesfehérvár, Pirosalma

7 STRUCTURE Faculty of Wood Industry Engineering 9401 Sopron, Ady Endre u 5. Faculty of Economics 9401 Sopron, Bajcsy Zs. u Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Mosonmagyaróvár 9201 Mosonmagyaróvár, Vár u. 2 Pécsi Tudományegyetem (University of Pécs) Pécs International Studies Center (ISC) 7633 Pécs, Szántó K. J. u. I/B. I (36-72) helga@isc.hu Center for European Studies 7622 Pécs, 48-as tér 1. (36-72) /3179 euro@rektori.pte.hu Office of International Relations 7633 Pécs, Szántó K. J. u. I/B. (06-72) oir@rektori.pte.hu Faculty of Law 7622 Pécs, 48-as tér 1. Faculty of Medicine Medical School English Program 7624 Pécs, Szigeti u 12. (36-72) englishprogram.office@aok.pte.hu Faculty of Humanities 7624 Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6. Faculty of Health Sciences 7623 Pécs, Rét u Illyés Gyula Faculty of Teacher-training, Szekszárd 7100 Szekszárd, Rákóczi út Faculty of Business and Economics Business Degree Programmes in English 7622 Pécs, Rákóczi út 80. (36-72) baba@ktk.pte.hu Faculty of Arts 7624 Pécs, Damjanich u Pollack Mihály Faculty of Technology 7624 Pécs, Boszorkány u 2. Faculty of Sciences 7624 Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6. Semmelweis Egyetem (Semmelweis University) Budapest Faculty of Medicine English Secretariat 1085 Budapest, Üllôi u. 26. (36-1) , (36-1) , (36-1) (German) engsec@rekhiv.sote.hu Faculty of Health Sciences 1135 Budapest, Szabolcs u Faculty of Health Care Faculty of Dentistry Faculty of Pharmacy Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences International Studies Office 1123 Budapest, Alkotás u 44. (36-1) szilvia@mail.hupe.hu Széchenyi István Egyetem (Széchényi István University of Applied Sciences) Gyôr Office of Research and International Relations 9026 Gyôr, Hédervári u. 3. (36-96) mmzs@szif.hu 29

8 STRUCTURE Faculty of Building and Environmental Engineering Faculty of Economics Faculty of Information Technology and Electronical Engineering Faculty of Transportation and Electronical Engineering Faculty of Musical Art Institute of Social Care and Nursing Szegedi Tudományegyetem (University of Szeged) Szeged Hungary and Eastern-Central Europe International Studies Centre 6725 Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt (36-62) International Relations Office 6720 Szeged, Dugonics tér 13. (36-62) , Faculty of Law 6720 Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt Faculty of Medicine Szeged, Zrínyi u. 9. Secretariat of Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical and Pharmaceutical Center 6722 Szeged, Dóm tér 12. (36-62) , (36-62) Faculty of Arts 6722 Szeged, Egyetem u Faculty of Health Sciences 6726 Szeged, Temesvári krt Faculty of Economics and Business Administration 6720 Szeged, Honvéd tér 6. Faculty of Pharmacy 6720 Szeged, Zrinyi u 9. Juhász Gyula Faculty of Teacher-training 6701 Szeged, Boldogasszony sgt Conservatory 6722 Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt Faculty of Agriculture, Hódmezôvásárhely 6801 Hódmezôvásárhely, Andrássy u Faculty of Food Industry 6724 Szeged, Mars tér 7. Faculty of Sciences 6720 Szeged, Aradi vértanúk tere 1. Veszprémi Egyetem (University of Veszprém) Veszprém International Relations and Project Office 8220 Veszprém, Egyetem út 10. (36-88) npo@almos.vein.hu Georgikon Faculty of Agriculture, Keszthely 8360 Keszthely, Deák Ferenc u. 16. (36-83) ppi@georgikon.hu Faculty of Engineering Faculty of Teacher-training Zrínyi Miklós Nemzetvédelmi Egyetem (Zrínyi Miklós National Defence University) Budapest 1101 Budapest Hungária krt Bolyai János Faculty of Military Technology 1090 Budapest, Üllôi út Faculty of Military Science, Szentendre 2001 Szentendre, Dózsa György út 12. Faculty of Management and Organisation CHURCH UNIVERSITIES Debreceni Református Hittudományi Egyetem (Debrecen Theological University of the Reformed Church) Debrecen 4044 Debrecen, Kálvin tér 16. (36-52) boda@drtasrv.drk.hu 30

9 STRUCTURE Evangélikus Hittudományi Egyetem (Evangelican Lutheran Theological University) Budapest 1141 Budapest, Rózsavölgyi köz 3. (36-1) , (36-1) Károli Gáspár Református Egyetem (Károli Gáspár University of Reformed Church) Budapest 1091 Budapest, Kálvin tér 9. (36-1) Faculty of Law and Political Science 1042 Budapest, Viola u Faculty of Humanities 1088 Budapest, Reviczky u. 4/c. Faculty of Teology 1092 Budapest, Ráday u. 28. Teacher s Training College 2750 Nagykôrös, Hôsök tere 5. Országos Rabbiképzô Intézet Zsidó Egyetem (Jewish Theological Seminary University of Jewish Studies) Budapest Budapest, Bérkocsis u. 2. (36-1) or-zse@or-zse.datanet.hu Pázmány Péter Katolikus Egyetem (Pázmány Péter Catholic University) Budapest Faculty of Humanities, Piliscsaba Piliscsaba, Egyetem u. 1. Centre for European Studies (36-26) / 2889 ceso@btk.ppke.hu International Office 2087 Piliscsaba, Egyetem u. 1. (36-26) /2029 karolyi@btk.ppke.hu Faculty of Theology 1053 Budapest, Veres Pálné u. 24. Faculty of Law and Political Science Dean s Office 1088 Budapest, Szentkirályi u (36-1) beheiri@jak.ppte.hu 31 STATE COLLEGES AND POLYTECHNICS Berzsenyi Dániel Fôiskola (Berzsenyi Dániel College) Szombathely Institute for Social and European Studies Szombathely, Berzsenyi tér 2. (36-94) europa@fs2.bdtf.hu Budapesti Gazdasági Fôiskola (Budapest Business School) Budapest Faculty of International Management and Business Studies International Relations Office 1165 Budapest, Diósy Lajos u (36-1) /377 haskogy@kkf.hu Faculty of Commerce, Catering and Tourism Training on Tourism and Commerce 1054 Budapest, Alkotmány u (36-1) , (36-1) (German) (36-1) (English) visitor@kvif.hu Erasmus co-ordinator (36-1) , (36-1) kmendvene@kvif.bgf.hu Faculty of Finance and Accountancy 1149 Budapest, Buzogány u Budapesti Mûszaki Fôiskola (Budapest Polytechnic) Budapest BMF Erasmus Office 1084 Budapest, Tavaszmezô u. 17. (36-1) dudas.maria@kvk.bmf.hu Bánki Donát Polytechnic 1081 Budapest, Népszínház u Keleti Károly Faculty of Economics 1084 Budapest, Tavaszmezô u Kandó Kálmán Faculty of Electrical Engineering

10 STRUCTURE Neumann János Faculty of Informatics 1034 Budapest, Nagyszombat u Rejtô Sándor Faculty of Light Industry Engineering Office of International Relations 1034 Budapest, Doberdó u Dunaújvárosi Fôiskola (College of Dunaújváros) Dunaújváros 2400 Dunaújváros, Táncsics Mihály u. 1/a. (36-25) Eötvös József Fôiskola (Eötvös József College) Baja Faculty of Pedagogy Department of Foreign Languages 6501 Baja, Szegedi út 2. (36-79) Faculty of Techology 6500 Baja, Bajcsy Zs. u. 14. (36-79) Eszterházy Károly Fôiskola (Eszterházy Károly College) Eger International Office 3300 Eger, Egészségház u. 4. (36-36) Kecskeméti Fôiskola (College of Kecskemét) Kecskemét Rector s Office 6000 Kecskemét, Ceglédi u. 2. (36-76) pal.boza@kefo.hu Faculty of Horticulture 6000 Kecskemét, Erdei Ferenc tér Faculty of Technology Technology Transfer Office 6001 Kecskemét, Izsáki u. 10. (36-76) Faculty of Teacher-training Socrates Office 6000 Kecskemét, Kaszap u (36-76) dosa@keti.hu Magyar Táncmûvészeti Fôiskola (Hungarian Dance Academy) Budapest Budapest, Columbus u. 87. (36-1) info@mtf.hu Nyíregyházi Fôiskola (College of Nyíregyháza) Nyíregyháza International Relations Office 4401 Nyíregyháza, Sóstói út 31/b (36-42) /123 losonczi@zeus.nyf.hu Faculty of Arts and Humanities Faculty of Economics and Sciences 4400 Nyíregyháza, Rákóczi u Faculty of Technology and Agriculture 4400 Nyíregyháza, Rákóczi u. 69. Faculty of Sciences Szolnoki Fôiskola (College of Szolnok) Szolnok Szolnok, Tiszaliget (36-56) /361 lovasz@szolf.hu Tessedik Sámuel Fôiskola (Tessedik Sámuel College) Szarvas Faculty of Business, Békéscsaba Erasmus Program 5600 Békéscsaba, Bajza u. 33. (36-66) /1031 cskiss@elender.hu Faculty of Agriculture, Mezôtúr 5401 Mezôtúr, Petôfi tér 1. Faculty of Agriculture, Water and Environmental Management 5540 Szarvas, Szabadság út 1-3. Faculty of Teacher-training 5540 Szarvas, Szabadság út

11 STRUCTURE PRIVATE COLLEGES Általános Vállalkozási Fôiskola (Budapest College of Management) Budapest Office of International Relations 1114 Budapest, Villányi u (36-1) Gábor Dénes Fôiskola (Gábor Dénes College for Information Technology) Budapest Budapest, Etele út 68. (36-1) Kodolányi János Fôiskola (Kodolányi János College) Székesfehérvár International Office 8000 Székesfehérvár, Szabadságharcos u. 59. (36-1) Modern Üzleti Tudományok Fôiskolája (College for Modern Business Studies) Tatabánya Career Office 2800 Tatabánya, Stúdium tér (36-34) Mozgássérültek Petô András Nevelôképzô és Nevelôintézete (Petô András Institute for Conductive Education of the Motor Disabled and Conductors College) Budapest Budapest, Kútvölgyi út 6. (36-1) , (36-20) Nemzetközi Üzleti Fôiskola (International Business School) Budapest Budapest, Tárogató út 2-4. (36-1) Budapesti Kommunikációs Fôiskola Budapest, Nagy Lajos király út 1-9. (36-1) CHURCH COLLEGES Kölcsey Ferenc Református Tanítóképzô Fôiskola (Kölcsey Ferenc Teacher Training College of the Reformed Church) Debrecen International Rapporteur 4026 Debrecen, Péterfia u (36-52) Apor Vilmos Katolikus Fôiskola (Apor Vilmos Catholic College) Zsámbék Socrates Office 2072 Zsámbék, Zichy tér 3. (36-23) FOREIGN INSTITUTIONS WITH PERMISSION TO OPERATE TO HUNGARY Central European University Budapest, Nádor u. 9. (36-1) , (36-1) Fernuniversitätgesamthochschule in Hagen 1114 Budapest, Villányi út (36-1) , (36-1) Western Maryland College 1071 Budapest, Bethlen Gábor tér 2. (36-1) , (36-1)

12 STRUCTURE The Hungarian Academy of Sciences Count Széchenyi founded the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in the mid-19 th century in order to develop Hungarian language and science. After World War the society of respected scholars and writers was transformed into a Soviet-style academic research institution, covering the entire spectrum of academic disciplines. The central library of the Academy, as well as the libraries of the different related institutes provide good research opportunities. The Hungarian Academy of Sciences still fulfils a very important role in Hungarian academic life since it offers large research funds, and has the special privilege of nominating candidates (akadémikus) for the most distinguished academic qualification. Hungarian Academy of Sciences (Magyar Tudományos Akadémia) 1051 Budapest, Roosevelt tér 9. (1) STUDIES Education Applicants to Hungarian colleges and universities must have a secondary school certificate. In most general admission procedures, secondary school credits and the results of oral and written entrance exams are included in a score that then becomes the basis of acceptance or rejection. This latter possibility will end from 2003, all applicants will have to pass an entrance exam. Training is based primarily on a compulsory seminar and lecture system. Seminars are, in general, informal, smaller discussion groups, specialised in certain topics and involve the active participation of students. They usually conclude with an independently written paper or an examination. Lecture courses follow the classic model, held for big audiences, where students have little chance to make comments or ask questions. Attendance is not obligatory. Lecture grades are usually awarded on the basis of exams (vizsga or kollokvium), though in a few cases on the basis of a written paper or essay. 34 The most frequent timetable of an academic year is the following: autumn semester First half of September_ student and course registration Second half of September middle of December_ preparation period Second half of December_ winter holiday (however, examinations can also take place during this period) January_examination period spring semester Beginning of February_ registration Middle of February first half of May_preparation period (one week Easter Holiday at the end of March) Middle of May end of June_examination period July August_summer holiday

13 STUDIES The general use of the credit system will facilitate the recognition of courses at other higher education institutions. Exams Grading System Hungarian higher education institutions are quite exam centred. In colleges in particular grades are considered to be crucial in terms of evaluating both knowledge and ranking. The highest grade is a 5. This stands for excellent. Grade 4 is good, 3 average, and 2 satisfactory. Exams or papers graded 1 must be repeated the other grades are considered passing. Grades matter when determining scholarships and tuition. Also, high grade point averages can be important when applying for certain scholarships, social allowances of the institution or other foundation support. Research Activity Students do have opportunities to show their creativity through individual research. The oldest traditional form of organising individual student research is through student conventions (Tudományos Diákkör or TDK). The TDK-student has a consultant teacher who provides continuous guidance. Alternatively, students become involved in the teachers research work. Students awarded prizes at the institutional and TDK conventions may hope for successful scholarly careers or at the least admission to Ph.D. programmes. In every discipline, scientific student organisations have been established in order to promote individual scientific research activities. Given the strong co-operation between the higher education system and the business sector, students in such fields have other external research possibilities (primarily in the technical, agrarian and economic sectors). 35

14 STUDIES The so-called professional colleges (szakkollégium) that are organised around certain universities and maintain some amount of independence, also represent serious workshops for scientific activities. The results and developments of such colleges are published on a regular basis. Libraries Financial difficulties have had a negative effect on the present technical facilities and book collections of traditional Hungarian libraries. However, the necessary books can be obtained with some effort (with increasing difficulty as the exam period approaches). In addition to department and university libraries, we recommend that you should visit both municipal and national libraries. In Budapest there are a number of special (national) libraries, such as: National Széchényi Library (Országos Széchényi Könyvtár)_ contains every book published in the Hungarian language Budapest, Budavári Palota, F épület (1) Szabó Ervin Metropolitan Library (Fôvárosi Szabó Ervin Könyvtár)_practically every book published in Hungarian language can be found here and it also has an important foreign language collection, and two good selections on Budapest and Sociology Budapest, Szabó Ervin tér 1. (1) The Library of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (Magyar Tudományos Akadémia Könyvtára)_specialises in Hungarian and foreign language scientific publications (the world famous Eastern Collection is here) Budapest, Arany János u. 1. (1)

15 Eötvös Loránd University Library (ELTE Egyetemi Könyvtár)_ 1053 Budapest, Ferenciek tere 6. (1) STUDIES Central Library of the Budapest University of Economic Sciences and Public Administration (Budapesti Közgazdaságtudományi és Államigazgatási Egyetem Könyvtára)_ 1093 Budapest, Közraktár u (1) Hungarian National Technical Information Centre and Library (Országos Mûszaki Információs Központ és Könyvtár)_ 1111 Budapest, Budafoki út 4-6. (1) Library of the Ethnographic Museum (Néprajzi Múzeum Könyvtára)_ 1055 Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 12. (1) Library of the Fine Arts Museum (Szépmûvészeti Múzeum Könyvtára)_ 1146 Budapest, Szondi u. 77. (1) Library of the Hungarian Parliament (Országgyûlési Könyvtár)_an outstanding collection on International Law and the European Union Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3. (1) Hungarian Central Statistical Office, Library and Documentation Service (KSH Könyvtár és Dokumentációs Szolgálat)_ 1024 Budapest, Keleti Károly u. 5. (1)

16 STUDIES Central European University, Library (Közép-Európa Egyetem Könyvtára)_ 1051 Budapest, Nádor u. 9. (1) Common Electronic Catalogue of Libraries: Hungarian Electronic Library: CERTIFICATES Diplomas To receive a university or college diploma all required curricula exams must be passed and certified. In addition to the completion of compulsory courses which differ from one institution to the other one or two language exams are also required that certify an expected level of language competence. After coursework and exams have been completed students must write and defend a thesis within the framework of a state exam. The completion of this thesis and its defence entitle the student to receive the formal diploma. Since only completed diplomas have any value in the labour market, and as they are only issued to students who have completed their state exams, the proportion of students not completing their studies is very low. The main difference between diplomas is that some jobs differentiate between college and university diplomas. In general, over the last decade, higher education degrees have earned a higher value in Hungary, which is partly due to the increasingly competitive domestic labour market. Academic honours (e.g., rite, laude and summa cum laude) that appear in diplomas are only formal, but the value of a degree does depend on the reputation of the given higher education institution. International recognition and equivalence of diplomas is based on inter-state agreements. Official recognition, however, also depends on legal regulations that are highly influenced by the local labour market and professional lobby interests. The Hungarian Equivalence and Information Centre a background office of the Ministry of Education can provide more detailed 38 Hungarian Equivalence and Information Centre (Magyar Ekvivalencia és Információs Központ) 1055 Budapest, Szalay u Budapest, Pf. 1. (1) / ext , (1)

17 CERTIFICATES information related to this topic. The recognition of educational content depends on the actual field. Medical, technical and agrarian degrees are usually highly valued in Europe. Doctoral Degrees The present system has been in operation for only a few years in practice it is similar to the structure of American Ph.D. programmes. Doctoral degrees can only be conferred officially by universities, after the Ph.D. candidate has completed the programme (attended the required courses and passed the exams of the accredited higher education institution). By the end of this period officially three years (though in practice more often four or five) a dissertation (thesis) must be written and defended. The Ph.D. degree is a prerequisite for college or university careers and for certain jobs. As a relic of the former degree system, the title of Candidate (C.sc.) still exists. This is an accepted equivalent to a Ph.D. Academic Doctor (D.sc.) is a title conferred by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences for a second dissertation; it was formerly a requirement for university professor positions. Medical and law institution graduates are given the title of dr.. INSTITUTES Institutional Hierarchy The basic cells of colleges and universities are the departments and institutes (tanszék and intézet) organised on the basis of the various disciplines. In general, these are independent units with a small amount of administration. The appointment of the Head of the Department is approved by the faculty or university council on the basis of the proposal of the other faculty members associated with the department. Lecturers are granted significant freedom in setting up the 39

18 INSTITUTES timetables and course schedules of their departments. Student representation in this process is direct, although in a less institutionalised form. In universities, the next level of institutional hierarchy is the faculty council. This body includes the Dean, their Deputies, Heads of Departments, professors, students delegated by the student self-government bodies, as well as the various institution administrators. The council makes higher-level decisions. The head of the faculty is the Dean, who is elected by the faculty council. He has no say over department-specific issues. Student self-governments have a highly significant representation at this level, and, if united, they can achieve their objectives on most important issues. There are various committees operating at the faculty (or institutional) level dealing with students educational, social, and disciplinary matters. Students must appeal to these committees if they have complaints. Student self-governments have a decisive role on such committees. University councils deal with general institutional policy issues and are also the venue for various lobbying efforts. Election of the Rector and voting on the university budget also fall within the competence of this body. Positions College-university staff are ranked in a traditional hierarchy, comprising elements of the French, Russian and German systems: Assistant Lecturer (tanársegéd)_a beginner, young lecturer in general, appointed mainly to conduct exercises, assist in training assignments and to hold simple seminars. Lecturer (adjunktus)_a lecturer with a doctoral degree entitled to lecture with a certain degree of independence and supervise theses. Associate Professor (docens)_a qualified, chief lecturer, sometimes they are selected to be the head of a department. Duties include holding lectures, presiding over examination committees, and supervising doctoral degrees. Can be elected head of an institution. Full Professor (university professor) (professzor or egyetemi tanár)_the highest title in higher education 40

19 INSTITUTES conferred on the most honourable professors. These professors may become the heads of departments, and have the right to conduct courses. Heads of institutions are generally elected from among them. Following admission to a Ph.D. training program, Ph.D. candidates may also assist in the training of undergraduate students. Frequently departments and faculties invite and employ visiting or part-time professors. It is also customary to confer honorary titles (honorary university professor, honorary associated professor, etc.) on those who are not full-time employees of the institution. These titles are conferred at both colleges and universities. Administration in Universities/Colleges The administrative office for students is called in Hungarian Tanulmányi Osztály (Registration Office). For foreign students, a German or English speaking student councillor is appointed. The registration office supports the work of departments and faculty councils with administrative work, registration of students, and the co-ordination of academic affairs etc. Along with student self-governments, registration offices deal with all the administrative work related to university studies: they collect grade books and theses, register applications for state exams, provide student identity cards, collect exam fees, etc. The office is valuable for all students. It even provides certificates about school attendance which are necessary when applying for a temporary residency or work permits. Admission and registration are the most important administrative tasks. These have to be completed by a designated deadline prior to each semester. Students will then receive their student grade books (index), which contain the timetable of their courses. In case of popular courses, it is advisable to inquire ahead as to whether there are available seats. The student grade book is also required during exams for recording of grades. It is equally important to obtain and validate a student identity card. This is usually possible in the Registration Office that also issues school attendance certificates necessary for work permits and application forms for financial assistance. 41

20 INSTITUTES Student self-governments are also involved in the administration of student affairs. They primarily assist in the organising and granting of social assistance and scholarships. They provide information on student career possibilities and accommodation, as well as on social programmes. Student Organisations Student interests and concerns are heard at elected bodies the so-called student self-governments, Hallgatói Önkormányzat (HÖK). These bodies have no political or trade union affiliations, and do not operate on a membership basis. Students delegate representatives by holding elections each institution has only one general student representative body. Their main task is to represent students interests in the committees of the institution. In general, their representation amounts to between a fifth and a third of these committees. Through them students gain access to information on professional requirements, they can communicate their opinions and can seek legal remedies for their grievances. In addition, the organisation of student life is carried out within the framework of the student self-governments. Student career offices and accommodation arrangements, the organisation of cultural and student community events, legal advisory services, international relations, students newspapers and clubs frequently operate under the auspices of student self-governments. They have offices in almost every institution. They also play a role in the operation of the increasingly widespread Student Counselling Offices (Diáktanácsadó Iroda). The national organisation of student self-governments, HÖOK (National Union of Students in Hungary), is the most influential and most extensive organisation representing students at the national level. They are also involved in the planning of various ministerial organisations. The HÖOK is a member of ESIB, a European association of student organisations. Although Ph.D. candidates have student status, they also have a separate national organisation, the DOSZ (Association of Hungarian Ph.D. Students). The DOSZ operates on the basis of membership support. It is the founder of π-net, the association of European and American doctoral candidate 42 Doktoranduszok Országos Szövetsége (DOSZ) (Association of Hungarian Ph.D. Students)_ 1149 Budapest, Ajtósi Dürer sor Professzorok Háza (1) Hallgatói Önkormányzatok Országos Konferenciája (HÖOK) (National Union of Students in Hungary)_ 1149 Budapest, Ajtósi Dürer sor Professzorok Háza (1) Central European Student Network 7633 Pécs, Szántó K. J. u. 1/B. A/1. (72) /2038 (72) oisr@ehkb.pte.hu Hungary@esn.hu Eötvös Loránd University Faculty of Humanities, Student Self-government, ESN section 1052 Budapest, Pesti Barnabás u. 1 (1) esnelte@fre .hu, erasmusmk@fre .hu