According to the European Approach for Quality Assurance of Joint Programmes (henceforth: the European Approach), adopted by the Ministers of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), a joint programme is an integrated curriculum offered jointly by higher education institutions (HEIs) from EHEA countries. These programmes lead to either double/multiple degrees or a joint degree. The joint degree is a single qualification awarded collaboratively by the partner institutions.

• dual degree or joint degree awarded by the international partner institutions

• interdisciplinary approach by learning to think across disciplinary boundaries

• flexibility and adaptability through an intercultural environment

• enhanced career opportunities through versatility and adaptability, knowledge and skills to pursue careers in multiple fields

• networking: opportunities to connect with faculty and students from different disciplines

FIBAA carries out accreditation for joint programmes according to the standards as defined in the European Approach. Joint programmes are evaluated according to shared components, and the relevant national components. The European shared components consist of two parts: the assessment criteria (henceforth: Standards) and the assessment procedure (henceforth: Procedure). Besides the share components, the FIBAA experts will consider special requirements and standards of EHEA members during the procedure.

The Procedure covers the self-evaluation by the joint programme (i.e. the self-evaluation report and the documentation required), the composition of the panel, the organisation of the site visit (online or offline) and the assessment report.

The result of the assessment is to be accepted in all EHEA countries.

Dependent on the national legal framework, the external quality assurance decision should come into force or be recognised in all countries where the programme is offered, as agreed in the Bucharest Communiqué.

• One quality assurance procedure and one assessment according to the ESG organised by an experienced partner

• Consideration of the European core requirements and the nationally relevant criteria

• Recognition of the accreditation at the European level across EHEA member countries

• Initial accreditation is valid for 5 years, re-accreditation is valid for 7 years