The Principality of Liechtenstein has a rather limited tertiary education sector. Only three university institutions of higher learning and a university-like institute are nationally recognised. These are the Liechtenstein University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Liechtenstein), the International Academy of Philosophy (Internationale Akademie für Philosophie) and the Private University in Liechtenstein (Private Universität im Fürstentum Liechtenstein), along with the Interstate University of Technology Buchs, although this is located nearby in neighbouring Switzerland.

Liechtenstein does not have any vocational schools and therefore relies on the corresponding institutions in Switzerland.

University level first stage: Bachelor's

Leading to a first university professional qualification, a Bachelor's degree is at least three years in length.

University level second stage: Master's        

Master's courses usually last for two years and enable in-depth study and specialisation in the chosen subject. At this level, several modules, seminars and lectures are provided in English.

University level third stage: Doctorate

The third level of study leads to the awarding of a PhD. The PhD thesis at the Liechtenstein University of Applied Sciences is written at one of the three partner universities with coaching by professors from the University of Applied Sciences. At the Private University in Liechtenstein, part-time doctoral studies in scientific medicine (Dr. scient. med) and law (Dr. jur.) are on offer, as well as full-time doctoral programmes.

Postgraduate and post-doctorate

The Private University in Liechtenstein offers a three- to four-term postgraduate Dr. scient. med course of study as a way of improving a student’s professional outlook. Other courses of study are Executive Master's programmes in Mediation and Property Law. Further postgraduate courses are offered at the Hochschule Liechtenstein.