The study course is meant for doctoral students and teachers of higher education institutions (HEI) to promote their skills in critical analysis, elaboration and integration of modern innovative solutions in the realisation of competence based studies. The participants of the course analyse the goals, objectives, philosophy and tendencies of studies in HEI, best practice examples, approaches to the assessment of the study quality and students’ achievements, challenges and innovative solutions in the 21st century for the promotion of students’ topical competencies for studies, work and life. The course emphasizes the importance of shifting the paradigm from knowledge acquisition in HEI to the knowledge application for solving real life complex tasks integrating problem-based and project–based strategies and providing interdisciplinary and cross-cultural collaboration.