LMD System Guide

Understanding the LMD System (Licence, Master, Doctorate)

The LMD system is an educational framework aimed at standardizing higher education globally. It was introduced to improve the structure, flexibility, and international compatibility of university programs.

Key Objectives of the LMD System:

1. Harmonization of Degrees:
   • Facilitates comparison and equivalency of degrees nationally and internationally.
   • Encourages professionalization while maintaining the generalist nature of higher education.
   • Promotes the acquisition of transversal skills (e.g., foreign languages, IT tools).
2. Advantages of the New Framework:
   • Enhances students' access to the job market.
   • Facilitates student mobility between institutions and countries.
   • Allows personalized learning pathways.

Changes Introduced by the LMD System:

• Degree Structure:
  • Licence (L): 3 years post-baccalaureate (6 semesters, 180 credits).
  • Master (M): 2 additional years after Licence (4 semesters, 120 credits; 300 credits total).
  • Doctorate (D): 3 years post-Master, involving research and thesis defense.

• Domain-based Organization:
  • Degrees are categorized by broad domains (e.g., Sciences, Humanities).
  • Within domains, students specialize through mentions and sub-specialties.
  • Tailored pathways validated by faculty are encouraged.
• Semester-based System:
  • Each semester is worth 30 credits.
  • Semesters are validated independently of academic years.
  • Total credit breakdown:
    • 1 Licence = 6 semesters = 180 credits.
    • 1 Master = 10 semesters = 300 credits.
  • Credit system promotes:
    • Study resumption and transitions between programs.
    • Recognition of prior experience and learning outcomes.
• Modular Learning Units (UE):
  • Courses are grouped into compulsory and optional units.
  • UEs are:
    • Transferable: Recognized across different programs with approval.
    • Capitalizable: Validated units remain valid for up to 5 years.

Overview of Each Level:

1. Licence:
   • Focus on theoretical, methodological, professional, and transversal education (languages, IT).
   • Includes internships and tutoring for student orientation and success.
2. Master:
   • Two tracks: Professional Master (job-oriented) and Research Master (academic).
   • Combines theoretical, methodological, professional training, internships, research, and thesis writing.
3. Doctorate:
   • Highest academic level.
   • Requires thesis completion under doctoral schools.
   • Offers supplementary training for professional integration.