Czechia: Short-cycle programmes — a fresh boost for professional education

A new layer in Czech vocational education

In June 2025, an amendment to the School Act introduced short-cycle programmes at EQF level 5 within higher vocational education, lasting between one and two years. These new study options aim to modernise curricula, make learning more responsive to economic needs, and strengthen cooperation between schools and employers.

This initiative is part of the Long-Term Strategy for the Development of Education and the Education System 2023–2027, which outlines the Czech Republic’s commitment to flexible, skills-oriented, and practice-based tertiary vocational education.

Building on a long tradition

Higher vocational education has been a part of the Czech system since 1995, bridging secondary and higher education. The introduction of short-cycle programmes represents the next stage of its evolution, giving schools the opportunity to design shorter, targeted study paths that better reflect employer demand and regional labour-market needs.

Designed in partnership with employers

Short-cycle programmes are developed in close cooperation with social partners to ensure that content is relevant and practical. One-year programmes conclude with a practice-based final thesis and its defence, while two-year programmes also include a professional examination in core subjects.

All final theses are carried out in cooperation with companies or institutions, ensuring that students gain authentic workplace experience. Graduates will receive a professional specialist certificate—a qualification with a clear professional profile and direct labour-market relevance.

Streamlined authorisation and reduced administration

Unlike traditional higher-vocational programmes, short-cycle programmes will not require a separate accreditation process by the National Accreditation Authority for Tertiary Education. Instead, they will be authorised directly by tertiary professional schools based on their already accredited programmes. Accreditation of the programmes enables school the entrance into the national register of schools and school facilities. The minimum requirements for these educational programmes are outlined in Section 13b of the Decree No.10/2005 Coll, as amended by Decree No. 306/2025 Coll.

This simplified procedure substantially reduces administrative burden and enables schools to react more quickly to new technological and economic developments.

Clear progression pathways

The reform strengthens progression and permeability within the education system. Graduates of short-cycle programmes will be able to continue their studies in two- to two-and-a-half-year accredited higher vocational programmes, provided they hold a school-leaving certificate (maturita) or an authorised short-cycle qualification in a related field.

Successful completion of these longer programmes leads to the title “Diploma specialist” (Diplomovaný specialista, DiS., ISCED 655). Meanwhile, traditional three- to three-and-a-half-year higher vocational programmes remain open to students with a maturita in a different field, maintaining the diversity and inclusiveness of vocational pathways.

Filling the EQF level 5 gap

Until now, EQF level 5 had no dedicated programme within the Czech education system. The new short-cycle programmes fill this gap by creating a rapid transition between secondary and tertiary vocational education. They will offer new opportunities not only for school-leavers but also for adults seeking retraining or upskilling.

For education providers, the programmes bring greater flexibility to update course content in line with rapid changes in technology, regional labour-market dynamics, and sectoral innovation. The emphasis on applied skills and hands-on learning supports smoother transitions into employment.

Looking ahead

The legislative changes will come into force on 1 January 2026, with the first short-cycle programmes expected to launch in the 2026/2027 academic year. Their successful implementation will depend on effective cooperation between schools, employers, and regional authorities, as well as on maintaining a high level of teaching quality and relevance.

Over time, short-cycle programmes may also serve as a tool for bridging learning gaps and aligning secondary and higher vocational studies, ensuring smoother progression for learners across educational levels.

Towards a more responsive vocational system

By combining shorter duration, practical orientation, and clear progression routes, short-cycle programmes promise to make Czech higher vocational education more flexible, accessible, and relevant. The reform aligns the Czech Republic with broader European developments in vocational education and training, reinforcing the link between learning and work.

As the country prepares for implementation, expectations are high that this new tier of programmes will help boost the appeal of higher vocational schools and strengthen their role in supporting a skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.

Read more

• Long-Term Plan for Education of the Czech Republic
• Decree on Higher VET No. 306/2025 Coll