Russia mulls a two-type master’s program model aimed at strengthening practical skills and research capabilities
Valery Falkov, the minister responsible for science and higher education in Russia, announced a plan to split master’s studies into two distinct paths: a professional track and a research track. The proposal, shared by the ministry, envisions clearer specialization and purpose for graduates. The move is framed as a way to tailor advanced study to individual career goals while preserving the ability to pursue scientific work for those who choose academia, according to the minister and his officials, cited by Interfax.
Falkov explained that a professional master’s program would concentrate on delivering deep, field-specific knowledge that enhances practical competencies. In contrast, a research master’s program would structure opportunities for students to engage in scientific inquiry and contribute to their disciplines through original investigations. The aim is to align master’s education with distinct outcomes, helping graduates enter the labor market with robust professional skills or continue into research careers, attributed to the minister’s remarks reported by Interfax.
The minister underscored that admission to master’s programs should not be viewed merely as a ticket to a diploma. He suggested that the core purpose of higher education is to equip students with additional knowledge and transferable skills that extend beyond credential attainment. This emphasis on substantive learning resonates with broader policy goals of improving graduate readiness and lifelong learning, as noted in the ministry’s coverage of his statements, reported by Interfax.
Falkov also asserted that master’s programs should be launched only at universities that possess adequate personnel and infrastructure to support high-quality delivery. He highlighted the importance of such prerequisites for natural sciences, engineering, and related fields, where facilities, equipment, and expert staff are essential to meaningful student outcomes. The emphasis on institutional readiness reflects concerns about program quality and student success at scale, according to the minister’s comments quoted by Interfax.
Earlier this year, the Northern Arctic Federal University, located in Arkhangelsk, took a notable step related to student theses by permitting the use of neural network assistance. Lyudmila Morozova, the university’s vice-rector for educational activities, stated that the share of texts produced with the help of artificial intelligence should be limited to a maximum of 40 percent. This decision illustrates how Russian institutions are navigating the integration of AI tools within graduate work, balancing innovation with academic integrity, as reported by Interfax.
Meanwhile, discussions have also touched on concessions that might be extended to working students who pursue master’s studies. The conversation centers on how universities can structure flexible pathways that accommodate employment without compromising the rigor and outcomes of graduate programs. These deliberations reflect ongoing efforts to harmonize work, study, and research expectations in Russia’s higher education system, as reported by Interfax.