Students at the University of Montenegro are celebrating a significant change, as the institution begins issuing diplomas for two-year master’s programs. This new policy, effective from December 12, 2025, aligns with Article 172 of the recently amended Law on Higher Education. The decision rectifies a systemic injustice affecting thousands of students completing their master’s studies.
As the representative body for over 16,000 students, the Students Parliament announced this development with enthusiasm. They emphasize that this moment marks the true implementation of the new higher education law, which was achieved through persistent advocacy and pressure from the parliament and a petition signed by more than 3,700 students.
The new regulation allows students who have successfully completed their first year and passed all required exams—totaling 60 ECTS credits—to receive their diplomas in postgraduate specialist studies. The parliament stated that this change not only corrects a long-standing inequity but also facilitates further career advancement and aligns with the state’s obligation to ensure students have opportunities in the job market.
Looking ahead, the Students Parliament is eager for additional reforms, including the accreditation of study programs under the new model. They argue that the current educational structure, which follows a 3+2+3 format, has proven to be unjust and unsuitable for the Montenegrin context.
In addition to these changes, the new law recognizes the right to student jobs as part of student standards. The law now allows higher education institutions to establish centers for facilitating student employment. The parliament is committed to advancing a law regulating student jobs, which they plan to submit to relevant ministries shortly.
Establishing a dedicated student service or employment center will enable students to engage in temporary and occasional work, gaining invaluable experience while ensuring they are compensated fairly. This initiative aims to create a legal framework that is flexible and conducive to academic success, paralleling similar systems in developed countries across Europe and beyond.
The Students Parliament remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the legal regulation of student employment, buoyed by the support of numerous students. They express hope that decision-makers will recognize the importance of these initiatives and take meaningful action to implement them.
