Bioekonomika

The Bioeconomy study program is an interdisciplinary master’s program at the second cycle level, planned to be jointly implemented by the Biotechnical and Economic Faculties of the University of Ljubljana. It combines biotechnical and social sciences, enabling students to acquire economic and business knowledge and skills for addressing micro- and macro-management challenges in fields where understanding biotechnical sciences is essential. The program is strategically oriented, relevant to global sustainability challenges, and builds on the past experiences of the Natural Resources Economics program. In its composition and content, it offers students comprehensive knowledge and enables them to achieve the set objectives, competencies, and planned learning outcomes. The interdisciplinarity and connection between biotechnology and economics are critical for tackling current challenges. The program is evaluated as filling an educational gap and contributing to increased competitiveness, sustainable economic development, and improved efficiency of governmental and non-governmental organizations in the management of renewable natural resources. The program is appropriately named, substantively comprehensive, and environmentally relevant, ensuring strong potential for student interest. Both faculties provide qualified staff, equipment, and spatial capacities for the effective implementation of the program. The conditions for study and the mandatory components of the program are clearly defined and transparent, allowing all stakeholders in the educational process to exercise their rights and fulfill their obligations. Experts did not identify significant deficiencies but suggested several opportunities for improvement. To better meet quality standards, they recommend a clearer definition of admission requirements, clarification of the program council’s role in assessing students’ prior knowledge, and the provision of mandatory literature in Slovenian.