EUR-ACE Framework Standards

Programme outcomes for engineering degree programmes in the EUR-ACE Framework standards are defined in the following six categories:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Engineering analysis
• Engineering design
• Investigations
• Engineering practice
• Transferable skills

These programme outcomes describe in general terms the capabilities required of graduates from accredited First Cycle (Bachelor) and Second Cycle (Master) engineering programmes as an entry route to the profession.

Consequently, they will have to be interpreted by users to reflect the specific demands of different branches, cycles and profiles.

In the course of an accrediation process, the authorized agency will check whether the programmes under review meet these programme outcomes.

Although the Framework is expressed in terms of accrediting degree programmes, it can be used for the accreditation of agencies that accredit (or intend to accredit) engineering programmes, provided their rules and Standards are consistent with the Framework (meta-accreditation); alternatively, it can be used as a guideline for drafting Standards and Procedures for new Agencies.

This framework can be also applied to engineering programmes outside the EHEA who wish to follow European standards.

The principal aim of the EUR-ACE projects was to develop a Framework for the accreditation of engineering degree programmes in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

The Framework Standards that have been developed and the procedures for their implementation are intended to be widely applicable and inclusive, in order to reflect the diversity of engineering degree programmes that provide the education necessary for entry to the engineering profession. The Framework affords a means for comparing educational qualifications in the EHEA, and thereby promoting the mobility of engineering graduates.  

The Standards for accreditation can be used in both the design and the evaluation of programmes in all branches of engineering and for different profiles.