In Thailand, the Thai government is responsible for providing most of the education and promises twelve years of basic education for free. In this country, it is mandatory to gain 9 years of school attendance. The education system in Thailand, like most other countries is divided into levels and there is a proper hierarchy system followed.
Apart from the mandatory education, individuals can opt for higher education from government owned institutions or private universities. Let’s look at the detailed outline of Thailand education hierarchy:
School Education
The school year in Thailand is divided into 2 terms of semesters. The first term starts at the onset of May and lasts till October and the other term stretches between November and March. The following is the hierarchy of school education.
A) Preschool Education
Preschool education in Thailand starts from the age of 2 or 3 and goes on till the age of 5. It is further subdivided as follows:
1. Preschool playgroup-students are admitted to playground at the age of 2 and are taught how to speak, draw and identify colors.
2. Kindergarten-kindergarten education lasts from the age of 3-5 and focusses on teaching numbers, alphabets, colours, rhymes and other basics.
B) Primary school Education
After the completion of preschool education, children are admitted to primary schools which are divided into 6 years of education, starting at the age of 6 and lasting till the child turns 11 years in age. These 6 years are termed as Prathom 1, Prathom 2, Prathom 3, Prathom 4, Prathom 5 and Prathom 6.
C) Secondary school Education
Children are directly admitted to secondary school after completion of primary school and are not required to change schools for this. Secondary school education focusses on in-depth of subjects like Mathematics, Science, Social studies, Music, Physical education and language subjects. Secondary school education is for another 6 years and is divided as Matthayom 1, Matthayom 2, Matthayom 3, Matthayom 4, Matthayom 5 and Matthayom 6.
D) Post-secondary Education
Post-secondary education is optional and generally refers to college or University level education. It is divided as follows:
1. Bachelor’s Education-Bachelor’s programs or degree courses last for 3-5 years, depending upon the exact discipline which the student opts for. This level of education is generally provided by recognized governmental or private institutions or colleges
2. Master’s Education-After the completion of bachelor’s education, students may choose to specialize in the subject of graduation and this level of education is termed as Master’s level education. It generally lasts for 2 years.
3. Certificate courses-Rather than going for bachelors or Master’s education; many opt for professional courses or certificate courses. These courses do not result in degrees from Universities but offer diploma or certificates on successful completion of the course.
4. PhD Education-Those who have successfully completed master’s education can opt to study higher up and aim for doctorate degrees called PhD. PhD courses are highest levels of education and are considered very reputable. Those who complete these courses get the title of ‘Doctor or Dr.’
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