National Qualifications Framework: Direct PhD requirements after Bachelor's degree
The Education and Training Evaluation Commission in Saudi Arabia announced the release of the draft update to the National Qualifications Framework (third edition) on the "Istilaa" platform. This strategic step aims to restructure the education and training system to keep pace with the rapid changes in the local and international labor market. This update is a key component of the Kingdom's efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to build a globally competitive human capital and enhance the efficiency of educational outcomes.
The context of modernization and its strategic importance
The National Qualifications Framework is the primary reference for classifying and registering national qualifications in the Kingdom, defining learning levels and their expected outcomes for each level. The third edition represents a significant leap forward compared to previous editions, placing greater emphasis on flexibility and alignment between academic education and the actual needs of the employment sector. The importance of this update lies in bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that graduates possess genuine, applicable skills, not just certificates, thereby enhancing employment opportunities and reducing unemployment rates among graduates.
Details of the direct PhD system after the Bachelor's degree
The most significant aspect of the new update is the formalization of the "direct PhD" pathway for bachelor's degree holders, a system already in place at many prestigious international universities. According to the draft, this qualification is equivalent to a traditional doctorate, but with stringent conditions to ensure academic quality. These conditions are:
- Duration of study: Not less than 5 academic years on a full-time basis (or equivalent) after the sixth level (Bachelor’s degree).
- Course requirements: Passing at least 36 credit hours of advanced courses.
- Scientific research: Preparing an original scientific thesis in a specific field, which contributes to enriching human knowledge.
- Placement: This qualification is placed at level eight within the National Qualifications Framework.
This approach would accelerate the academic path of outstanding students and passionate researchers, thus supplying universities and research centers with qualified young personnel in record time without compromising the quality of scientific output.
Recognition of professional certifications and microprograms
The update did not neglect the professional aspect, providing a precise definition of professional qualifications and certifications, emphasizing the necessity of their issuance by recognized bodies and their adherence to specific professional standards. Furthermore, the update aligned with modern global trends by standardizing "micro-credentials," which are short, intensive learning modules designed to equip learners with specialized skills urgently needed in the job market, thus promoting the concept of lifelong learning and flexibility in skills acquisition.
Promoting digital skills and national values
In light of the Kingdom's digital transformation, the new framework emphasizes the need to include digital skills, including the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, within learning outcomes. Emphasis is also placed on social and emotional skills such as communication and teamwork, alongside instilling national and ethical values and principles, to ensure the graduation of responsible citizens who are professionally and technically competent.
