Academic community

Everyone involved in academic life - students, lecturers, researchers, deans and the Rector. 

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Bachelor

Bachelor’s degree programmes at Charles provide students with a broad knowledge base, which can then be further developed by studying follow-up Master’s programmes. Bachelor’s programmes are completed with a final state examination and the defence of a Bachelor’s thesis. Graduates are awarded the academic title of “Bachelor” (abbreviated to Bc. and written in front of the holder’s name). Bachelor’s studies usually last three years.  

 

Credits and Exams

Study results are measured by e.g. exams, assignments, or project work. Examinations can be written, oral or combined. Students receive credits after they have successfully completed each course. 

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Dean

The Dean is the head of a faculty, elected by the faculty senate and appointed by the Rector. 

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Doctoral (Ph.D.)

Doctoral programmes represent the highest level of formal education, focusing on independent research in a specific field. Ph.D. studies usually take three to four years. The studies are completed with a final state examination and the defence of a doctoral dissertation. Graduates are awarded the academic title of “Doctor” (abbreviated to Ph.D. and written after the holder’s name). 

 

Faculty

A faculty is a division within the university associating a number of related subject areas. Charles University has 17 independent faculties.  

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Graduation

Students receive their diplomas at a traditional graduation ceremony after completing their studies.  

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Long-cycle Master

Some Master’s programmes are not preceded by a Bachelor’s programme. They are called long-cycle Master’s programmes (such as General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy) and last five to six years. You may start these studies after finishing your secondary education. 

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Magna Aula (Great Hall)

The Magna Aula is a ceremonial hall located in the historical Karolinum building. Matriculation and graduation ceremonies are held here. 

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Master

Master’s degree programmes usually follow on from Bachelor’s programmes, and their standard length is two years. Master’s degree programmes are completed with a final state examination and the defence of a Master’s thesis. Graduates are awarded the academic title of “Master” (abbreviated to Mgr. and written in front of the holder’s name).  

 

Matriculation

All new students are accepted into the academic community at a matriculation ceremony. Students promise to carry out their duties and responsibilities as students and respect the tradition of the university.  

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Rector

The Rector is the executive head of the university, nominated by the Academic Senate of Charles University and appointed by the President of the Czech Republic. The Rector’s term of office is four years, and he/she can be elected for a maximum of two consecutive terms. 

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Semester and academic year

The CU academic year is based on two semesters - winter and summer. Both semesters are followed by examination periods. The academic year starts on October 1. 

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Full-time form of study

Most study programmes at Charles are taught on a full-time basis, in person. Students attend a regular schedule of classes throughout the week. 

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Combined form of study

Some courses can be taken in combined form; this means part distance learning and part in person.

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Distance learning means that study takes place primarily online and via self-study.