Recognition given to the U.S. bachelor's degree varies among European nations

Discussion in 'Accreditation Discussions (RA, DETC, state approva' started by Lerner, Feb 13, 2005.

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  1. Lerner

    Lerner Well-Known Member

    Holders of a bachelor's degree from the United States have completed a distinct programme of study at the second stage of higher education. Particularly during the final two years, studies represent greater specialization as well as an introduction to research and analysis of complex problems.

    However, the recognition given to the U.S. bachelor's degree varies among European nations. Generally, tertiary recognition is given only for the final two (out of four or more) years, a practice which is not considered acceptable by American higher education institutions.

    This problem is compounded because in certain European countries the specialization expected of first degree holders is higher than that required of holders of U.S. bachelor's degrees. Nevertheless, the United States is of the opinion that the bachelor's degree should be accepted as the minimum requirement for admission to a doctoral programme. At the same time, it has recognized that it is reasonable to expect U.S. students to complete any specialized studies that are essential for beginning a doctoral programme.
     
  2. Guest

    Guest Guest

    I once saw a British University web site that detailed the equivalency of British credentials with various other countries. This site had the British and Canadian 3 year bachelors degree as equivalent to the 4 year American B.A.

    North
     
  3. plantagenet

    plantagenet New Member

    The entrance requirements for UK universities are stricter than those of US universities.

    I do not want to inflame the situation, but perhaps they see the first year or two of a US Bachelor as somewhat "remedial". (Where the IB or AP exams or A-levels would be given advanced standing in the US, in other places they are pre-requisites).

    I do believe the European students would be less than amused to see US students given full credit for what they consider "secondary studies"
     
  4. nosborne48

    nosborne48 Well-Known Member

    The University of London considers a four year American B.A. to be an acceptable credential to enter a Master's program BUT they look at the transcripts and grade point average. Case-by-case, I guess.

    An English B.A. really IS much narrower and more specialized than any American bachelor's degree is allowed to be. The U of L LL.B. is three years of nothing but law yet it is definately an undergraduate qualification.

    I am not so quick to call either system "better"; they are different even as the societies they serve are different.
     
  5. Lerner

    Lerner Well-Known Member

    Many Russian degree holders have the same issue.

    One of my friends is not trying to get in to Grad school but simply become an Certified Environmental Specialist.

    He has a Veterinary Doctor degree from Russia.

    After evaluation his education by the board of health services in the state guess what classes he is missing and has to take.

    College math - 3rd year and bunch of other unrelated liberal art classes.

    Because of the highly specialized degree.

    I looked at the transcript of a 6 year program and couldn’t find math or other classes they want him to take.

    So I can see how very specialized degree may have insufficient general art and natural sciences classes.
     
  6. plantagenet

    plantagenet New Member

    Dearing Report

    I have found a copy of the Dearing Report which has something to say upon the nature of US academic programs.

    Quality and Standards 7.21


    Feel free to come to your own conclusions about the validity of the report, but please do not shoot the messenger.
     

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