Cyprus – Education System

STRUCTURE OF EDUCATION SYSTEM

Pre-higher education:

Duration of compulsory education:

Age of entry: 5

Age of exit: 15

 

Structure of school system:

Pre-Primary

Type of school providing this education: Pre-Primary School

Length of program in years: 1

Age level from: 4 to: 5

Certificate/diploma awarded: Certificate of attendance

 

Primary

Type of school providing this education: Primary School

Length of program in years: 6

Age level from: 6 to: 12

Certificate/diploma awarded: Leaving Certificate

 

Lower Secondary

Type of school providing this education: Gymnasium

Length of program in years: 3

Age level from: 12 to: 15

 

General Secondary

Type of school providing this education: Lykeion

Length of program in years: 3

Age level from: 15 to: 18

Certificate/diploma awarded: Apolytirion

 

Technical Secondary

Type of school providing this education: Technical School

Length of program in years: 3

Age level from: 15 to: 18

Certificate/diploma awarded: Apolytirion

 

School education:

Primary education lasts for seven years leading to a Leaving Certificate. Public general secondary education lasts for six years. It is divided into two three-year cycles: three years’ Gymnasium, followed by three years Lykeion. Most private schools have competitive entrance examinations in Greek and Mathematics. In parallel, there is also a vocational and technical stream. The syllabus in the technical stream emphasizes Science subjects, whereas in the vocational stream technological subjects, workshop practice and industrial training are emphasized. Graduates of both streams may also proceed to tertiary institutions. The Eniaio Lykeio was launched on a pilot project basis in three schools from 1995 to 2001 to offer both general and technical/vocational education.  In the school year 2000-2001, the restructured Eniaio Lykeio, offering a great variety and flexibility in the choice of studies, was established on a pancyprian scale to replace the Lykeion system of optional subjects which functioned before for over 20 years. The Eniaio Lykerio is characterized by its focus on general education (including technology and economics) aiming at developing a multifaceted personality. At the Eniaio Lykeio, the A Form is for observation, guidance and orientation. In the B and C Forms, pupils attend common core courses which are considered as indispensable for all. At the same level, the Technical secondary education which is separate from the Eniaio Lykeio offers upgraded curricula. Continuous efforts are being made to achieve a more systematic and efficient implementation of the unified nine-year curriculum for the primary and gymnasium stages of the educational process.

 

Higher education:

The higher education system of Cyprus comprises both public and private institutions. The State established three state universities. The University of Cyprus, which opened in September 1992, has six faculties (Humanities and Social Sciences, Pure and Applied Sciences, Economics and Management, Letters, and Engineering). Studies are organized in semesters, and subjects taught are counted in credits. The Council of Ministers decided to proceed with the establishment of two state universities: the University of Applied Sciences and Arts and the Open University of Cyprus and appointed two interim Governing Boards to do so.

 

Academic year:

Classes from: Sep to: Jun

Languages of instruction: Greek, English

 

Stages of studies:

Non-university level post-secondary studies (technical/vocational type):

 

Non-university level:

A large number of students who continue their education do so abroad.  Public-sector institutions offer full-time courses of between one and three years. The Mediterranean Institute of Management offers a postgraduate diploma in management. A number of private institutes offer one- to four-year courses leading to certificates, diplomas and higher diplomas.

 

University level studies:

University level first stage: Bachelor:

The first stage of university level education at the University of Cyprus lasts for 4 years and leads to the award of a Ptychio (240 ECTS).

University level second stage: Master; Post-graduate Degree:

After completion of the first stage, graduates may follow a one- or two-year post-graduate programme in specific institutions leading to a Postgraduate degree. The University of Cyprus confers a Master’s Degree eighteen months after the Bachelor’s Degree in most fields.

University level third stage: Doctorate:

The University of Cyprus confers a Doctorate (PhD) in some fields of study after studies lasting at least three years beyond the Master’s Degree.

 

Teacher education:

Training of pre-primary and primary/basic school teachers

All teachers in the public sector must have a University of Cyprus degree (Ptychio) or equivalent degree in Pedagogical Studies.

Training of secondary school teachers

All general secondary teachers must be graduates but few have any initial teacher training. The Pedagogical Institute of the Ministry of Education and Culture runs in-service training courses which are compulsory for probationers.

Training of higher education teachers

Higher education teachers are trained abroad. A number of teachers at public third-level institutions are holders of postgraduate degrees (MA, PhD) or have pursued at least one year of postgraduate studies abroad. Every member of the University faculty holds a Ph.D.

 

Non-traditional studies:

Lifelong higher education

Public and semi-public non-formal education are provided by the Apprenticeship Training Scheme and evening classes of technical education at the Ministries of Labour and Education respectively, and through courses in various fields organized by Adult Education Centres. Various programmes are also sponsored by the Human Resource Development Authority.

Higher education training in industry

Accelerated vocational training and re-training courses are organized by the Human Resource Development Authority (former Cyprus Industrial Training Authority)

 

The excellent quality of instruction; innovative teaching fed by the latest research; a highly supportive learning environment; and an inclusive international culture.Enthusiastic committed staff, first-rate facilities and a strong record of graduate employment are just a few of Cyprus’ Education strengths. The knowledge and skills developed during studies will prepare you for careers in a broad range of employment.Employers in business and industry recognise and value Cyprus’ reputation for teaching excellence. They also value the many transferable skills and personal qualities students acquire from attending colleges with such diverse interests. In addition to all the academic benefits of studying at one of the colleges in Cyprus, you will be living in one of the country’s most exciting cities. The quality of this experience will stand you in good stead once you finish your degree and assist you to progress on to something new. As a student you will meet people who are similar to you and others who are quite different. You will be studying in a lively environment and some of the friendships you will make probably last forever. Whatever your interests, there is always something for you to enjoy in Cyprus, which is a fantastic country to live and study in. So why not come and experience it for yourself? It is a place of stylish shops and cafe-bars providing great nightlife, sport and culture.

TheCyprus’ Universities and Colleges are committed to preserving the quest for knowledge as more than simply a practical pursuit. Through broad range of programs, the Colleges provides students from Cyprus and around the world with the depth of understanding and intellectual flexibility they need to respond to the challenges they will face in the years to come.The dedicated academic and administrative staff works hard to keep the Cyprus’ Colleges a warm, human and friendly place.

Choosing the right study opportunity abroad is an important decision, which will affect the extent to which you find your life as a student fulfilling and enjoyable, as well as having an impact on your whole future career. Choosing the CyprusEducation establishes a commitment to high quality. The emphasis remains upon excellence of teaching, academic distinction and relevance to today’s problems.

 

High Quality Education 

Cyprus Institutions’ faculties comprise of established professors from diverse backgrounds who combine academic knowledge with professional experience which is the key to maintaining quality and guaranteeing success. Of equal importance is the fact that quality programs are accompanied by sound advice, support and guidance. Cyprus Institutions aim at equipping students with highly-regarded qualifications, skills and experience, which will fulfil their career aspirations and enrich their future lives. The accomplishments of their students reflect their commitment to quality. Many graduates have successfully entered the working world and have excelled within their fields of study.

 

Flexibility 

The flexibilityand diversity of the programs attracts students of all ages from every background and from many different countries. The programs of study are reviewed regularly so that they meet students’ needs and the needs of society in general. Furthermore, the Colleges are able to take a flexible and sympathetic approach to applications.

 

Programmes of Study

Engineering

Secretarial Studies

Computer Studies

Business Administration

Hospitality Management

Security Services & V.I.P. Protection

MBA

& Many More