Final recommendations of the SMARTT project

This report reflects the main results of the SMARTT Project, together with specific SMARTT recommendations for the development and implementation of the European Degree Label (EDL) and the Joint European Degree (JED).

The landscape of European higher education is evolving towards more interoperable and unified systems across the continent, significantly influenced by initiatives like the Bologna Process (BP) and the establishment of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and the European Education Area (EEA). These efforts aim to enhance student and scholar mobility, ensure academic qualification recognition, and foster transnational partnerships.

Introduced as a policy experimentation by the European Commission in 2022, the EDL aims to symbolize excellence in transnational education, enhancing the visibility and attractiveness of European higher education globally. It serves as a quality seal for joint degree programs. The SMARTT Report outlines a three-stage phased approach to implementing and expanding the EDL towards a JED, based on extensive analysis and stakeholder feedback. The phases — Emerging, Converging, and Merging — detail strategic steps for enhancing educational frameworks, fostering inclusiveness, and supporting lifelong learning.

The Emerging Phase: Focuses on the development and deployment of the EDL. Recommendations include clearer differentiation and definitions of program types, the organization of EDL criteria into thematic clusters for clarity, and a proposed awarding process emphasizing institutional autonomy.

The Converging Phase: Envisions a clear definition and national adoption of the JED, building on the groundwork laid by the EDL. It anticipates significant resources and a collective commitment to develop and implement JEDs.

The Merging Phase: Represents the full deployment of JEDs, which would automatically include the EDL as a seal of quality, marking the culmination of this initiative.

The SMARTT Report proposes a comprehensive and phased approach to enhancing the quality, competitiveness, and unity of European higher education through the EDL and JED. These recommendations aim to build on existing frameworks and initiatives, ensuring a cohesive and innovative educational landscape across Europe.