After several years, an independent expert commission conducted an external evaluation of the Manufacturing Engineering study programs at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH) Faculty of Mechanics. The results were exceptionally favorable this year, ranking among the highest in the university’s history.

An international panel of experts from Latvia, Estonia, and Denmark—including academic representatives, a social partner, and a student—assessed the undergraduate Manufacturing Engineering study programs. The Industrial Product Design, Manufacturing Engineering and Management, Mechatronics and Robotics, and Applied Artificial Intelligence programs received 30 out of a possible 35 points and were accredited for the maximum period of seven years.

According to the Dean of the VILNIUS TECH Faculty of Mechanics, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Justinas Gargasas, these evaluation results are the best in recent years, proving that the program meets the highest quality standards.

“This recognition not only confirms the quality of our study programs and their compliance with top-level standards but also ensures that our graduates are well-regarded in the job market and can build successful careers,” says Dr. Gargasas.

Ensuring Quality through External Evaluation

The external evaluation and accreditation of study programs are conducted at least once every seven years by the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education. This process ensures the quality of higher education institutions and helps improve their study programs.

The quality of the study programs is assessed based on various criteria, including study goals, expected outcomes, content, the connection between research and education, student admission and support, academic achievements, graduate employability, faculty expertise, and available study resources. The evaluation also considers how well the programs align with employer needs and whether they are regularly updated based on feedback and recommendations.

Nearly €2 Million Invested in Equipment Upgrades

Dean Gargasas attributes the strong evaluation results to several factors, including highly qualified faculty members—who received the highest possible rating—active student and social partner involvement, and an upgraded learning environment.

“With the Faculty of Mechanics moving to new laboratory and lecture facilities shared with the Faculties of Electronics and Transport Engineering at Plytinės St. 25, students now have access to state-of-the-art classrooms and cutting-edge industrial and laboratory equipment. Nearly €2 million has been allocated for equipment upgrades, enabling students to better grasp and apply their coursework.

Additionally, the continuous improvement of study programs and the diligent work of those responsible for the Manufacturing Engineering curriculum played a crucial role. They prepared a comprehensive program description, highlighting its strongest aspects,” shares Dr. Gargasas.

Growing Demand for Manufacturing Engineers in Lithuania and Abroad

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for professionals skilled in automation, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and other modern technologies. Manufacturing engineers are increasingly sought after in both the local and international job markets.

“Their ability to optimize production and reduce costs is highly valued by both Lithuanian and international companies, and these roles are well-compensated. Furthermore, manufacturing engineering contributes to solving environmental challenges by developing more sustainable and eco-friendly production processes—an essential goal across the European Union,” explains the researcher.

The Manufacturing Engineering and Management study program plays a particularly significant role in preparing specialists capable of working with advanced technologies, automation systems, and innovative manufacturing processes.

“Students in this program gain both technical and managerial knowledge, covering everything from materials science and mechanics to production planning, quality assurance, and logistics.

Graduates can successfully apply their expertise in both traditional industries and emerging fields such as robotics and 3D printing. They also play a key role in optimizing manufacturing processes, implementing new technologies, and driving innovation,” concludes Dr. Justinas Gargasas.