The latest edition of the Bulgarian University Ranking System (RSVU) for 2024 has been released. The new version includes a number of new features and improvements that provide valuable information for prospective students, parents and education professionals. This year’s ranking highlights the impact of higher education in Bulgaria, particularly how Master’s degrees can significantly improve graduates’ employment prospects and income levels.
© Photo credits: Ministry of Education and Science
Key Takeaway: Master’s Degrees Lead to Higher Employability
Data shows that earning a master’s degree significantly improves career prospects. According to RSVU 2024, over 85% of students who pursue a master’s degree directly after high school and nearly 70% of those who complete it after earning a prior degree secure positions that require advanced education credentials. In contrast, only 51% of bachelor’s degree holders find similar opportunities. The advantages are clear: master’s graduates experience higher employment rates, increased income potential, and lower unemployment rates, making this a promising option for those seeking long-term job security.
A First Look at Graduate Employment Outcomes
For the first time, RSVU has included specific data on employment outcomes by degree type, offering invaluable insights for students evaluating their options. This new feature allows prospective students to see exactly how different levels of education impact career trajectories, guiding them toward degrees that align with their professional goals.
An Increase in International Student Presence
Another highlight of the 2024 rankings is the growing number of international students attending Bulgarian universities. As Bulgaria continues to improve its educational infrastructure and market demand for educated graduates remains strong, the country is becoming a more attractive destination for students worldwide.
Persistent Disparities in Income and Employment
Despite positive trends, the 2024 rankings reveal notable differences in income levels, unemployment rates, and degree relevance, depending on the field of study and the institution. These findings highlight the importance of researching a degree program and the specific university, as outcomes can vary widely—even within the same profession.
How RSVU 2024 is Evaluated: A Comprehensive, Data-Driven System
RSVU compares 51 accredited higher education institutions across 52 professional fields using various indicators. These indicators cover every aspect of university life, including:
- Educational Quality: Assessments of educational processes and faculty expertise.
- Research Activities: Measurement of research output and publications in renowned databases like Scopus and Web of Science.
- Learning Environment: Evaluation of campus resources, support services, and technology integration.
- Social Conditions: Analysis of campus life, student support, and inclusivity.
- Employment Outcomes: Graduate employment rates and income levels by institution and field of study.
This comprehensive system collects data from various sources, including higher education institutions, the National Statistical Institute, the National Agency for Evaluation and Accreditation, the National Center for Information and Documentation, the National Social Security Institute, and international bibliographic databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. Additionally, sociological surveys were conducted among employers, students, lecturers, and both administrative and managerial staff at higher education institutions, offering a thorough overview of the Bulgarian higher education landscape.
Custom Rankings and Career Insights for Students
One of RSVU’s most user-friendly features is its ability to offer predefined rankings by field and custom rankings tailored to a user’s specific preferences. This customisation allows students to prioritise the factors most important to them— employability, research opportunities, or social conditions. Additionally, RSVU includes information on the most common career paths for graduates, helping students align their studies with future job prospects. Each university’s offerings are also clearly laid out, so students know what majors and specialisations are available.
Introducing the National Map of Higher Education
In a new development for 2024, the RSVU platform now features the National Map of Higher Education (NMHE), which offers a geographical view of educational opportunities across Bulgaria. The 2023 NMHE edition is available online, and the 2024 map will be released following official approval, adding another layer of valuable information for students planning their academic journeys.
Explore RSVU Today
With numerous factors to consider, making an informed choice about higher education is more important than ever. This project, supported by the Ministry of Education and Science, ensures that RSVU remains a relevant and data-driven resource for students and educators. RSVU 2024 provides prospective students with the tools they need to make confident decisions that align with their career goals. The Ranking System is accessible online.
In 2024, the OSI-S Consortium, which consists of the Open Society Institute – Sofia and Sirma Group Holding, upgraded and updated the Bulgarian University Ranking System under a public procurement contract awarded by the Ministry of Education and Science.
