Focus on Master's education: online conference at Lobachevsky University

The online conference "Master's program 2025" started at Lobachevsky University on October 15. It is organised jointly by the UNN and the Potanin Charity Foundation. The main theme of the conference is to define strategic directions for the development of the Master's program of the future, based on expert assessments of participants in the educational process.

UNN Rector Elena Zagaynova had this to say about the development prospects of Master's programs at Lobachevsky University:

"The importance of Master's programs today is growing exponentially and it is very good that this is appreciated by both the university staff and by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. Absolutely everyone agrees that the Master's program is a tool that helps us respond quickly to market demand. Speaking about the prospects and about planning — in terms of specific areas where our graduates will be needed, the economy and business can give a forecast for 2-3 years ahead. Thus, the role of the Master's degree program is growing day by day. Business itself is proposing the modernisation of Master's education, which shows that we must work harder in this direction."

Sergei Zlobin, Minister of Education, Science and Youth Policy of the Nizhny Novgorod region, confirmed the words of Elena Zagaynova and the main idea of the day:

"Our region is an active customer that requires personnel with a Master's degree. It acts as a representative of the economy and the social sphere and shapes the directions for development. Graduates of Master's programs have sound professional experience for companies in any field", Sergei Zlobin noted.

Research practice or practical science? Olga Petrova, UNN Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs tries to answer this important question in the niche of Master's education:

"We are still wondering whether a Master's program is a second higher education or a continuation of the first one, research practice or practical science. To understand this, we must participate in conferences like this one. Master's education is certainly more important and necessary today, at least because it combines theory, practice and science itself. It is at this stage that the student realises what the employer needs," comments Olga Petrova.