European Approach 

One coordinated review of the joint programme as a whole, guided by AQAS's extensive experience with complex European consortia. 

One review for the joint programme as a whole 

AQAS conducts European Approach reviews for joint Bachelor's and Master's programmes offered by consortia across different countries. We assess the programme as one integrated whole, applying European standards developed specifically for joint provision. The consortium works through one coordinated procedure, one international expert panel and one coherent report, rather than separate reviews of the national components. This reduces duplication and provides all partners with a shared external perspective on quality and further development. 

Extensive experience with complex consortia 

With more than 20 completed European Approach procedures, AQAS is one of the leading and most experienced agencies in the practical implementation of this methodology. Consortia across Europe have repeatedly entrusted AQAS with reviews involving diverse partners, degree arrangements and national settings. AQAS also contributed to the ImpEA project supporting implementation of the European Approach. This experience enables us to identify critical questions early, coordinate the partners' contributions and keep the process manageable. 

Designed around what makes a programme genuinely joint 

The review focuses on how the partners create a coherent study experience across institutions, locations and national systems. The international panel examines the joint learning outcomes, programme design and delivery, admission and recognition, learning and assessment, student support, resources, transparency and internal quality assurance. Particular attention is paid to the cooperation agreement, the distribution of responsibilities and the way the consortium assures quality together. 

One consortium, one coordinated process 

At the outset, AQAS works with the consortium to clarify the participating institutions, countries, degrees, responsibilities, schedule and recognition questions relevant to the procedure. A dedicated AQAS consultant accompanies all partners and provides structured feedback while the consortium prepares one joint self-evaluation report. AQAS appoints an independent international panel with suitable disciplinary, professional, student, system and language expertise. The site visit involves all partners and allows time for substantive dialogue. The panel prepares one report on the entire programme, on which the consortium can comment before the AQAS Standing Commission decides. AQAS develops an individual procedure plan and quotation for each consortium. 

EUROPEAN APPRAOCH Accreditation CONTENT PDF