Study on the Diploma Supplement as seen by its users - naric

4.5. Overall classification of the qualification
A system of overall classification is not used in many countries. When it is in use, it is
expected to be included in the Diploma Supplement. However, in the examples that were
looked at by the project group, it was sometimes difficult to place the overall classification in
an international context.
Good practice identified:
- Brief explanation of the classification system in terms of percentages or overall
achievement should be provided here so that it can be understood internationally.
Chapter 5: Information on the function of the qualification
This chapter gives information on the function of the qualification i.e. what further studies the
graduate may pursue and what professional rights, if any, are conferred to the graduate.
Furthermore, as in most of the Quality Assurance Frameworks the results of the studies form
an important issue; this section can contribute to the appreciation of the programme.
However, in the examples the project group looked at, many higher education institutions
gave a rather general description on this point.
5.1. Access to further study
Analysis and findings
In chapter 5.1, it should be stated precisely which further studies the qualification gives
access to. For professional recognition this information provides first and foremost
information on the level of the qualification, in addition to Chapters 3 and 8.
To be useful, this subchapter must be filled in precisely; if this qualification gives access to a
specific level or title of a diploma it should be mentioned here. If applicable, it should also be
stated which further conditions have to be fulfilled in order to obtain access to further studies,
this however, often being the discretion of the admitting Higher Education Institution. It is also
important to remember that information in 5.1 is given on the national level, and is not
binding to Higher Education Institutions in other countries.
Good practices identified:
- Indicating access to further study clearly and precisely.
- Using such common terminology as “first-, second- and third-cycle”, familiar to the
Bologna process.
5.2. Professional status
Findings and analysis
This chapter is reserved for professional status, and gives valuable information for the
purposes of professional recognition. If the degree holder is eligible for a regulated
profession, it is important to state it here accurately, when relevant, referring to the
legislation. In the Diploma Supplement examples, very often this part was either left empty,
or its purpose in particular for professional recognition was not fully understood. Writing “not
applicable” here is not a good practice, as there is always something that can be stated on
the graduate’s professional status. The description of the professional opportunities in terms
of professional status is very helpful in the context of transnational communication because it
facilitates making comparisons with the local context of the reader. This could be in terms of
possible career domains suited to the graduate, or an indication of their rights in practising a
regulated or non-regulated profession, or an outline of the steps needed to be taken for
professional registration and exercise.
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