Higher education institutions in Iceland operate within a legal framework entitled The Universities Act, Nr. 63 13. June 2006. In the Universities Act, the Icelandic term “Háskoli” is used to refer to the traditional university , as well as institutions which do not carry out research. Therefore the Act does not make a distinction between universities and other institutions providing higher education. According to the Act, the Minister of Education, Science and Culture determines whether and to what extent the institutions shall engage in research, and the Minister is responsible for establishing rules on quality evaluation and recognition of all degrees offered. The role of each higher education institution is further defined in special acts or charters.
