Expert group from German ASIIN Agency visits YSU

Yerevan State University is currently working towards international accreditation of six educational programs from the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics. These programs are "Actuarial and Financial Mathematics," "Applied Statistics and Data Science," "Mathematics" (bachelor’s programs), "Applied Statistics and Data Science," "Mathematics and Applications," and "Financial Mathematics" (master's programs).

The selection of these programs for accreditation is based on their relevance, demand, and the alignment of material and technical resources with international accreditation standards.

As part of the visit, the experts met with YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, Vice-Rectors Mikayel Hovhannisyan, Rafayel Barkhudaryan, and Elina Asriyan, as well as the heads of the respective educational programs, to discuss issues related to the quality of the educational programs and their compliance with international standards.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan presented the university’s activities and priorities to the expert group. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the international agency, stating, "This is our second collaboration with the German ASIIN Agency. Following our first collaboration, the bachelor’s and master’s programs at the Faculty of Biology and the Institute of Pharmacy received international accreditation. This process began three years ago, and we are now starting a new phase aimed at accrediting six educational programs at the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics. In the past, many questioned the need for such a process, as it was seen as challenging and requiring considerable effort. However, over time, it became clear that international accreditation is essential for the university, its programs, and its students. Over the years, the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics has produced many successful graduates who have excelled in various institutions." 

The rector further emphasized that, with collective effort, the challenges of the accreditation process will be overcome, leading to enhanced educational programs and graduates who will make significant contributions to the development of various sectors in the country.

The Director of YSU Quality Assurance Center, Armen Budaghyan, emphasized the importance of the visit by the international expert group. He explained that the group would review the educational programs and meet with various stakeholders, including academic staff, students, and employers, to assess the quality, alignment, and sustainability of the programs, ultimately drawing conclusions about their overall quality. 

Maria Mothes, a representative from the ASIIN Agency, expressed her gratitude to all those present, noting her anticipation for productive discussions. She stated, "What is crucial in these accreditation processes is that we are working towards a common goal—improving higher education and enhancing the quality of academic programs. Thus, I am looking forward to this."

During the meeting, discussions on the university's development prospects also focused on key issues related to technical infrastructure, communication and coordination methods, education organization and management, and quality assurance processes. These areas are cruical for ensuring the effective implementation of the programs. The expert group will continue its meetings and discussions, including interactions with students from YSU Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics.

The international accreditation process of educational programs, conducted by the ASIIN Agency, marks a significant step in the internationalization of Yerevan State University. This accreditation will enhance the university’s reputation and the appeal of its educational programs, attracting not only Armenian students but also international ones. By becoming a competitive and internationally recognized educational institution, YSU will provide its students with access to new educational and professional opportunities abroad.

Previously, the German ASIIN International Agency accredited the "Biochemistry and Biotechnology" bachelor’s program and the "General and Medical Biochemistry" master’s program at the Faculty of Biology, as well as the "Pharmacy" bachelor’s and master’s programs at the Institute of Pharmacy. The accreditation certificates were presented by the Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia, Zhanna Andreasyan.