29.02.2024
On an initiative launched by the AVPSAO, the Conference of Section Directors (CDS) launched a working group (WG) to study the issue of study flexibility. The purpose of the WG was to explore different implementation possibilities for breaks in studies at EPFL. It comprised individuals representing the teaching staff, student body, as well as academic and legal services.
Among the reasons cited by the WG for such a change:
- Allowing for non-academic projects to be pursued, such as MAKE projects, internships, sports, or other personal projects.
- Providing the opportunity to reduce the density of studies.
After several meetings, the WG agreed on the following two proposed rule modifications at EPFL:
- For the bachelor’s degree: Currently, during the bachelor’s cycle (2nd and 3rd years), except in exceptional circumstances – typically cases of illness, a minimum of 60 credits must be acquired every 2 years as per Article 26, Paragraph 2 of the Ordinance on Study Control [link]. The WG proposes to remove this rule, so the only temporal rule regarding the duration of the bachelor’s cycle would be to successfully complete the 120 credits in 4 years. This allows for the extension of the 2nd year in particular.
- For the master’s degree: It is already possible to complete the master’s cycle by taking twice as much time, i.e., it is possible to take 6 semesters to complete the 90 credits of the master’s cycle for 120-credit masters, and 4 semesters to complete the 60 credits of the master’s cycle for 90-credit masters. The WG proposes to add the possibility of taking a break of up to 1 year before starting the master’s project if this maximum duration for the master’s cycle has not yet elapsed.
The WG presented the project to the CDS, which will decide in March whether it is in favor of the project or not. The EPFL management will do the same, also in March. If the project is accepted, it will undergo consultation organized by the School Assembly. Stay tuned!