You may not know much about the Czech Republic, a relatively small country in the heart of Europe. (Population: 10.3 million.) But surely you've heard of Prague, the capital city and also a rising trendsetter in the world of fashion. If you're interested in studying abroad, the Czech Republic boasts a long tradition of quality education (Charles University in Prague was founded 660 years ago and is the oldest university in Central Europe!) and an unbeatably low cost of living.

Types of Schools in the Czech Republic
Vocational schools in the Czech Republic provide professionally and vocationally oriented education. There are about 175 professional schools in the country, which enroll about 30,000 students total. Programs usually last for three years, and graduates are awarded the diploma specialist, which is academically lower than a bachelor's degree. Professionally, however, some of these diplomas are given the same recognition as bachelor's degrees (e.g., in health professions). Much like trade schools in the U.S., vocational schools in the Czech Republic work closely with employers and boast a high rate of job placement.

As opposed to vocational schools, higher education institutions in the Czech Republic offer all levels of postsecondary education: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Bachelor's degree programs last three to four years, and master's degree programs last one to three years. Long master's degree programs (four to six years) exist in fields such as medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and law. Doctoral degree programs last three to four years, and are focused on scientific research and independent creative activities in the area of research or development, or independent theoretical and creative activities in the area of the fine arts.

Currently, there are 73 higher education institutions in the Czech Republic: 45 private, 26 public, and 2 state (military and police). These schools serve almost 350,000 students. Eighty-seven percent of postsecondary students in the Czech Republic attend public higher education institutions, 12 percent attend private schools, and 1 percent attend state schools.

Students in the Czech Republic
Adult education in the Czech Republic has grown significantly in recent years, assisted by the rise of distance education and more and more courses leading to certificates recognized by employers.

And women now comprise more than half of all higher education students and graduates in the Czech Republic. In doctoral degree programs, however, women only comprise about 39 percent of students and graduates.

In addition, there are about 27,000 foreign students at Czech higher education institutions.

Programs of Study in the Czech Republic
The Czech higher education system does not distinguish between professionally and academically oriented higher education institutions. All programs are designed to prepare graduates to enter the labor market successfully or continue with their studies.

Many higher education institutions in the Czech Republic are specialized schools that offer programs focusing on anything from performing arts, architecture and design, fine arts, and film to life sciences, agriculture and forestry, and veterinary and pharmaceutical sciences. More than half of all private higher education institutions in the Czech Republic emphasize economics; almost a quarter focus on health care. Other diverse postsecondary offerings include banking, finance, automotive, tourism, spa management, legal, information management, business administration, international and public relations, theology, real estate, sports, politics, and technology.

When you study in the Czech Republic, you'll benefit from a fascinating cultural experience as well as the ability to learn in a variety of languages. Why not choose the Czech Republic - a leading study abroad destination?