Quality Assurance

Tartu Applied Health Sciences University is a state institution of professional higher education administered by the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research in the fields of health and social care. The University operates pursuant to the legislation regulating higher education and vocational education as well as the University’s Statutes. The activity of the university is based on different national strategic documents.

The strategic management of the University consists of four key stages.

1. The development of strategic objectives, based on the Development Plan 2021–2026.

The Development Plan 2021-2026 is a continuation of the previous development plan, at the same time including the revised vision and mission of the university as well as a fresh interpretation of the core values that serve as a basis for the performance of the university. For the period 2021-2026, five strategic objectives with corresponding sub-objectives have been defined. The key indicators of development are presented across the fields of activity.

2. The implementation of activities, guided by the Action Plan 2024–2026 linked to the Development Plan and the annual work plans.

Implementation of the development plan is supported by the renewed action plan 2024-2026 (previous one 2021-2025), setting specific tasks for each calendar year, the responsible persons, deadlines, as well as the budget strategy, including the investment plan. The action plan and the budget strategy are approved by the College Council.

3. The evaluation of performance, drawing on the Annual Report and the results of satisfaction surveys.

The University’s quality management is based on continuous analysis of development and on feedback from stakeholders (staff and students) and partners (employers, graduates, the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Social Affairs, practice institutions, international partners, educational institutions, and the community).

4. Improvement, continuous enhancement of activities based on the information obtained during the evaluation phase.

The Quality Assurance System operates following the principles of the Deming Cycle – plan, do, check and act. The quality management processes are described (including the person in charge, actions, indicators and documents), regularly reviewed and updated. The University’s quality management system supports its strategic management.

Good Practice of Teaching and Studying is created and adopted by all the members of the University to encompass the principles of core values that are followed in studying and teaching. This Good Practice is established in communication among the University members and others in study, development, and research activities in classrooms and digital environments. The aim of Good Practice is to shape a good ethical climate at the University, raise awareness concerning best practices for the University members, and prevent and detect early possible deviations from the Good Practice.

Recognized University

The Higher Education Assessment Council of the Estonian Quality Agency for Higher and Vocational Education decided on April 27 in 2020 to accredit Tartu Applied Health Sciences University for 7 years. The accreditation is valid until 27.04.2027.
 
The Council recognises Tartu Applied Health Sciences University for its activities as a health promoter and leader of healthy behaviour in society, as well as for the involvement of learners in different types of community activities. The university is having a leading role in the development of new study programmes and professional standards in the field of health care. An individual approach to each learner is implemented in the study process. Stakeholder satisfaction with the university activities is high; high satisfaction is also reflected in the performance of dedicated lecturers and administrative staff. The university has thoroughly planned the activities for introducing specialities trained at the university.
 
Assessment of vocational education and training curricula took place in conjunction with the institutional accreditation in 14.-18.10.2019. Based on the Assessment Council decision of March 10, 2020, the next quality assessment of the following study programme groups: social work and counselling, child care and youth services, therapy and rehabilitation, medical diagnostic and treatment technology, will take place after six years.