Direct PhD requirements and updating the National Qualifications Framework in Saudi Arabia

The Education and Training Evaluation Commission in Saudi Arabia announced the release of a comprehensive update to the National Qualifications Framework, its third edition, through the government's "Istilaa" platform. This strategic step aims to develop and enhance the efficiency of the national qualifications system to ensure its full alignment with the demands of the rapidly evolving labor market, as well as to keep pace with modern global educational and professional trends. This directly contributes to supporting the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to build a globally competitive human capital.

Direct PhD Track: A Quantum Leap in Higher Education

One of the most significant aspects of the new update is the introduction of a "direct PhD" track after obtaining a bachelor's degree, a system already in place at some of the world's most prestigious universities. Under this update, a PhD qualification in this track is equivalent to a traditional doctorate, provided the student completes at least 36 credit hours of advanced coursework, with the possibility of crediting up to 6 credit hours for directed study.

This track requires the preparation of an original thesis that contributes to enriching knowledge in a specific field of specialization. The minimum study period for obtaining the degree is five academic years beyond the sixth level (Bachelor's degree), and it must be undertaken on a full-time basis or its equivalent. This qualification is placed at level eight within the National Qualifications Framework, reflecting the high scientific and research value of this track, which aims to accelerate the graduation of outstanding research talent.

Development context and its economic importance

This update comes at a time when the Kingdom is undergoing major economic and developmental transformations, with education being a cornerstone of the Human Capital Development Program, one of the Vision 2030 initiatives. Allowing direct doctoral studies and focusing on skills development aims to bridge the gap between educational outcomes and employer needs, reduce the number of years of study required for gifted students, enhance the efficiency of educational spending, and accelerate the flow of highly qualified professionals into research, innovation, and development sectors.

Professional qualifications and professional certifications

The update also addressed the professional aspect, providing a precise definition of professional qualifications issued by recognized educational or training institutions or professional bodies. These qualifications aim to achieve specific learning outcomes linked to rigorous professional standards necessary for practicing professions. The update further clarified the concept of "professional certifications," granted by specialized awarding bodies to validate specialized competence. These certifications are placed within the levels of the national framework upon meeting the requirements, thus enhancing the value of professional certifications in the job hierarchy.

Microprograms and Future Skills

In response to the flexibility of the modern labor market, the update included a definition of "micro-credentials," which are short, focused learning modules that equip learners with specific specialized skills. The new framework also placed significant emphasis on "social and emotional skills," such as collaboration and communication, and "digital skills," including working with artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, while stressing national and ethical values ​​as an integral part of graduate development, to ensure the graduation of responsible citizens who are professionally and technically competent.