The University of Latvia (UL) Medicine study programme, a second-cycle professional higher education study programme, has received international accreditation for the maximum period of five years. The accreditation has been granted by the Accreditation Agency for Health and Social Sciences (AHPGS), an agency recognised by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) in the field of medical education.
The international evaluation of the study programme was conducted in accordance with the Basic Medical Education WFME Global Standards for Quality Improvement (BME Standards 2020), as well as the European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG).
International experts commend the quality of the study programme
A key stage of the international accreditation process was the expert visit to the University of Latvia on 28 and 29 April. The University hosted international experts from Germany and Switzerland, together with a representative of AHPGS. Over the course of two days, the expert panel conducted a comprehensive assessment of the study programme, including its implementation, infrastructure and quality assurance system.
The experts met with university leadership, academic staff, students and graduates, and visited clinical training sites, including departments and facilities at Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital.
The expert panel positively assessed the structured approach to the study programme, the quality of clinical training, the organisation of studies in small groups, and the close collaboration between academic staff and students. The experts also highlighted the integration of research into the study process, as well as the University of Latvia’s development plans in the areas of primary healthcare and simulation-based education.
At the same time, the expert panel provided recommendations for the further development of the study programme, particularly with regard to strengthening integration across the curriculum and expanding opportunities for interprofessional education.
International recognition of quality
The five-year international accreditation represents an important quality assurance milestone for the Medicine study programme at the University of Latvia’s Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences.
The accreditation confirms the programme’s alignment with internationally recognised standards for the quality of medical education and provides a strong foundation for its continued development, including the enhancement of the curriculum, learning environment and professional competencies essential for future physicians.
The University of Latvia extends its gratitude to all academic and administrative staff, students, graduates and partners for their contribution to the international accreditation process and to the continued development of the Medicine study programme.
