Bachelor's Degrees in United States

 

Study in United States

The United States has the world’s largest international student population, with over 800,000 students. Nearly 4% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA are international students.

The US is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Universities in the United States offer a huge variety of English-language courses, various speciality degrees and excellent research in a diverse, international environment.

The US provides a huge variety of higher education institutions all over the country: over 1,700 public and 2,500 private institutions.

Higher education institutions in the United States

• Community Colleges offer associate’s degrees, certificates, vocational degrees, and some bachelor’s degrees.
• Vocational Schools offer certification for particular vocations that do not require a degree but require specialized training.
• Colleges and Universities provide anything from associates’ degrees to doctoral degrees.
• Graduate Schools offer Master’s and Doctorate level degrees and certificates.
• Seminaries offer religious education for future ministers and clergy members.

The United States has more institutions of higher education than any other country. International students with varied perspectives, values and traditions come to the US and increase cultural awareness and international networks.

United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes more than 19,500 US higher education programs as accredited and of a high quality. Among these, Ivy League Universities are well known as the top higher education institutions in the United States and the world.

General application requirements

Universities in the United States have their own individual admission standards and include all or part of the following requirements:

• Grade point average (GPA) or letter average. Most U.S. colleges and universities require that you take one or more standardized admissions tests in order to gain entrance into their programs.
• Essays or questionnaires. These may include a “personal statement” about why you are considering that university.
• Courses studied during secondary school or any prior education.
• Community service and group/club involvement.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers.
• English Proficiency Exams.

Some universities may have additional specific requirements. Check with university student services for details.

For more information visit: https://www.educationusa.info/5_steps_to_study/

Student visa

Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country.

Visa requirements include:

• Non-refundable application fee;
• Application forms;
• A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States;
• Standardized photographs;
• You will need to prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your studies;
• Usually an interview with an embassy official is required.

Student assistance

Professional advisers guide students in their search for institutions or programmes of study in the United States that meet their individual needs. Sororities and Fraternities are national organizations, focusing on social interaction, service projects and student activities. Nearly every university offers internship services. Career services focus on offering employment advice and find student job opportunities. Credential evaluation services analyse qualifications of international students in order to establish study programme eligibility.

Some universities offer salaries to research students. Students can arrange fellowships with companies that pay for tuition costs in exchange for a few years of service.

Study environment

American universities provide the latest technologies and advancements coupled with excellent research opportunities. Students are free change their minds and transfer from one course to another or change their study institution.

Most classes include no more than 20 students, facilitating greater teacher involvement and student interaction. All kinds of English language courses are available for international students.

With over 35 million Spanish speakers in the United States, it is the 5th largest Spanish-speaking population. Spanish is currently the most widely taught non-English language in U.S. higher education.

To find and compare English and Spanish language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

Living in United States

• The United States does not provide free health care. It will be helpful for you to learn about the local health care system before arriving in the country. This knowledge can save a significant amount of time and money. The American health care system is one of the best (and most expensive) in the world.
• Many colleges and universities in the United States offer on-campus housing.
• The average apartment in the United States can cost from $500 (one-bedroom apartments in more rural areas) to $1,500 in urban areas.
• When living in the United States, you will likely want to save about 1000 – 1500 USD per month for housing and utilities.
• Americans are usually more informal, addressing others by their first name. Most Americans are also friendly and ready to offer help.
• There is no “official” language of the country, although over 90% of the population speaks American English.

Places to visit

• Washington, District of Columbia (D.C) – visit historical and political landmarks like the Washington Monument, the United States Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial or The Smithsonian Institute.
• Las Vegas, Nevada. You can find glass pyramids, canals, towers, circuses, casinos and a number of other tourist attractions.
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming - one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
• New York City, New York - one of the most diverse and interesting cities in the country. Popular tourist attractions include Times Square, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Statue of Liberty and more.
• The Grand Canyon, Arizona - the largest in the world.
• Los Angeles, California – home of Hollywood superstars.
• Orlando, Florida - Visit Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

About United States

The United States is a Federal Republic consisting of 50 states and a federal district. 48 states and Washington, D.C. are situated in central North America between Canada and Mexico. The state of Alaska is situated in the north-western part of North America and the state of Hawaii is an archipelago in the Pacific. The United States is the world's third largest country in the world. It is also third largest in the number of inhabitants and is also one of the world's most multicultural nations. The capital is Washington, D.C. and the biggest city is New York City.

The United States is the world's oldest surviving federation, a constitutional republic and representative democracy. The federation was formed after the first 13 colonies gained their independence from British rule in 1783.

The country has the world's biggest economy - 23% of global nominal GDP, based mainly on technological advancements, an abundance of natural resources and high worker productivity. Even today, the United States is one of the world's largest manufacturers.

According to international rankings, 13 or 15 American colleges and universities are ranked among the top 20 in the world.

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Bachelor's Degrees in United Kingdom

Study in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is probably one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Europe, joining people from all over the world in one truly multicultural society. More than 400,000 international students visit the UK every year.

British universities provide a broad range of internationally recognized study programmes, preparing students for future careers in major international companies. The United Kingdom is also home to some of the best research facilities in the world.

The UK is home to some of the best-known internationally renowned universities in the world. Since 1903, UK universities have produced 88 Noble Prize winners.

International education

British education offers students the freedom to explore new ideas and creativity. Students are encouraged to pursue individual research work but are also expected to take part in group activities demanding peer interaction. Teachers often engage students in classroom discussions, debates and quizzes, creating an open study environment that builds student confidence and nurtures critical and creative thinking.

Courses are skill oriented and career focused, keeping up to date with current industry demands.

Study options

Courses range from short courses, certificates, diplomas to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, British study programmes offer great flexibility. Students may also select career centred study programmes. Intensive academic programmes resulting in fewer years of study are also available. Some graduate degree programs are less than 1 year long. Students who plan to study and work may choose between remote study options, on campus classes or a mix of distance learning and on campus studies.

UK teachers are known for developing effective language learning methods. There are plenty of options available for students who want to brush up on their language skills.

To find and compare English language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

General application requirements

Here are a few steps you might have to take in order to apply to a British university:

• Complete online application.
• Send transcripts of high school graduation papers and other graduated university programmes.
• Apply for financial aid.
• Provide proof of English proficiency, if English is not you native language.
• Some universities may also require an online interview.

If you are not from the EU, the EEA, or Switzerland, you should also:

• Provide a copy of your passport, passport size photos, birth certificate, certificate stating the birthplace of both your parents.
• Present approved visa.
• Provide proof that you will be able to afford your education and living expenses.

Each university generally has its specific admission requirements, so you should always check for additional information. The international student affairs office or the university admissions office can help with your enrolment process.

For more information visit: http://www.educationuk.org/global/articles/how-to-apply/

Student support

Student Unions help international students settle in. Trained professionals offer support and advice on issues such as health, finance, faith, accommodation, disability, language, career and more. Universities also provide social activities like meetings, parties or trips, and help students feel more comfortable and integrate into the new environment.

Universities offer a variety of scholarships and loans, including on campus work-study options to help students cover their tuition fees.

Credit system

Many universities now operate the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) credit system. All universities in Scotland use the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) enabling easier transfer between courses and institutions.

Student Visa

Students coming from certain countries do not need a student visa for UK. Find out if you country is on the list.

To obtain a UK visa you may be required to:

• have certain vaccinations or – if you are coming from a tuberculosis high-risk area – a chest x-ray;
• present proof of your finances and qualifications;
• attend an interview or a biometric test;
• Students who plan on taking a short course in the UK require a Student Visitor Visa
• Students who plan to attend a long study programme should apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa.

For more information visit: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/study-visas
 

Living in United Kingdom

• While London is the most expensive city in the country, universities in the countryside have considerably lower tuition fees. For example, undergraduate studies in Scotland are free of charge for Scottish and EU citizens. Tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in science or arts are £6000 to £10000 per year. Clinical masters and MBAs can be as high as £20,000 per year.
• Students enrolled in programmes longer than 6 months are allowed 20 hours of work per week during their studies. They will also have access to free health care on the National Health Service.
• Living expenses are around £600 to £770 per month, depending on the location.
• Find Quality Accommodation for Students through Uniplaces here. Promocode: STUDYPORTALS15
• Student unions offer discounts for travel, sightseeing, nightlife and student shops.
• Student cinemas, nightclubs, theatres and other forms of entertainment provided by most universities are a good way for students to save money.
• Accommodation options for college students can include halls of residence, lodgings or home stay, hostels, and private flats and houses; around 30 per cent of international students live in accommodation offered by a university.
• People in the UK usually drive on the left side, and the steering wheel of British cars is on the right.

Tips for social interactions

• In the UK, being late is considered impolite. Always try to be 5 minutes early to an appointment.
• Many restaurants add a 10% tip to the bill. This is called ”Service included”.
• Parties start between 7 and 9 p.m. and guests are usually expected to bring drinks.
• People are extremely polite. They use ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘sorry’ a lot.

Regulations & Advice

EU member since 1-1-1973

About United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is comprised of England, Wales, Scotland (which make up Great Britain) and Northern Ireland. The capital city of the UK is London, which is also the capital of England. Cardiff is the capital of Wales, Edinburgh the capital of Scotland and Belfast the capital of Northern Ireland.

The United Kingdom has fourteen overseas territories, the remnants of the British Empire, which was the largest empire in history, covering a quarter of the world’s landmass. It was also the world's first industrialised country, and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

The English Channel to the south separates the British Isles from Europe. The Channel Tunnel is a rail tunnel built under the English Channel that connects Britain to France.

The UK is a constitutional monarchy, governed by a parliamentary system. The English language is spoken throughout the UK, but there are other official languages too, such as Welsh, Scots and Gaelic.

The United Kingdom is the world's sixth-largest economy. It is a member of the European Union (EU), the Commonwealth of Nations, NATO, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Most famous historic monuments include Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s birthplace) as well as many ancient castles and old villages. The UK is home to 28 cultural and natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A wide range of museums and art galleries present world-famous exhibitions. Madame Tussauds wax museum is one of the more popular attractions.

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Bachelor's Degrees in United Arab Emirates

Study in United Arab Emirates

Higher education institutions include both public and private Universities and Colleges.

Government institutions are overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research, and are only open to UAE nationals. Private universities and colleges are open to all students.

The Commission for Academic Accreditation, operating within the Ministry, licenses higher education institutions.

More than 14,000 students were enrolled at UAE in the first semester of the academic year 2006–7.

Academic structure

The Arab Emirates has established an excellent and diversified system of higher education in a very short period. Nationals can attend government institutions free of charge. A wide range of private institutions with international accreditation supplements the public sector. The country now has one of the highest application participation rates in the world. Ninety-five per cent of all females and 80 per cent of all males who are enrolled in the final year of secondary school apply for admission to a higher education institution or to study abroad.

A system of colleges offering a more technically oriented education was devised in 1988. Today, 16 men’s and women’s colleges in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Madinat Zayed, Al Ruwais, Dubai, Ra’s al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Fujairah provide a diversity of programmes in modern, technologically equipped campuses.

Many private institutions offer a wide range of tertiary-level opportunities.

General application requirements

Students should hold a High-school Graduation Certificate. Gulf students should obtain 60% of total marks in the high school Certificate for admission to the Faculties of Engineering and Economics; non-Gulf students should obtain 80% for admission to any faculty, except Engineering where they must obtain 90%. For Islamic Studies and Sharia, candidates must be Muslims and must obtain 50% of the total marks in the High School Certificate. Applications should be made to the University in June.
There are a few governmental universities and colleges in UAE where admission is restricted to nationals only. However, there are several private institutions where enrollment is open to any student who meets the admission requirements. A student may enroll in any program of his/her choice.

For detailed information contact the international student office of the University you wish to attend.

Also visit: http://www.arabiancampus.com/studyinuae/uaestudy.htm

Academic programmes

The UAE educational system comprises of a variety of academic and professional training institutions. Academic Programs include diplomas, degrees as well a postgraduate studies. A student may also enrol for professional training to gain an internationally recognized certificate.

Universities & Colleges courses organize lecture courses and lab work. Institutes may provide local programs or internationally recognized certifications. Certification of completion is provided for each program in addition to the vendor certification upon completion of exams.

Language of Instruction

The language of instruction in Government schools is Arabic, with English used for some science and technical subjects. Improving English language skills at all levels of education is a government priority under the ‘Education 2020’ plan.

Even though English is the primary language of instruction in some UAE universities, students are expected to be fluent in both Arabic and English.

To find and compare English language courses visit: www.languagelearningportal.com

Student Visas

Student Residence Visas are normally only valid for 1 year at a time, renewed each year during the study program.

Documents needed:

• Passport with at least 6 months validity;
• 4 Passport copies;
• 12 Photographs;
• Upon arrival, 3 passport copies with entry visa to the UAE;
• Evidence of acceptance to a UAE tertiary institute (offer letter);
• Possibly bank statements showing evidence of funds in the UAE;
• Possibly a tenancy agreement (or letter from university if staying in university accommodation);
• Copy of tuition fee receipt for the current study year of the program;
• Copy of visa fees receipt for the current study year of the program.

Students from some countries will undergo a security check to make sure they are not considered a threat to UAE security. A medical test at an authorised UAE medical center will normally be required. Student Residence Visa Fees

Students need to apply for visa at their local UAE embassy or consulate. Ask the embassy for detailed information about obtaining a visa.

For more information also visit: http://www.arabiancampus.com/studyinuae/uaestudy.htm

Living in United Arab Emirates

• Shared flats cost around 2000 EUR per year, while a single room flat is 2900 EUR per year.
• Costs for a shared flat including food and transportation are about 270 EUR per month.
• There are many activities to pursue in United Arab Emirates, from desert safaris and mountaineering to parasailing, and sea tours.
• Sports fans can enjoy time on some of the best golf courses in the world, before retiring to the beach to lay in the sand.
• Scuba divers may encounter sea creatures like dolphins and tropical fish, while swimming in coral reef regions.
• Shopping at modern shopping malls, souks, and individual retail stores is a great way to spend the day. Dubai is known as the “shopping capital of the Middle-East”.
• The Dubai Shopping Festival takes place from January to February.
• The Dubai World Cup is the world’s richest horse race.
• Sand Skiing is a novel and exciting experience.
• Foreigners are free to practice their own religion.
• The dress code is liberal.
• Arabic cuisine includes many types of cooking from countries like Morocco, Egypt, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Tunisia, and more.
• The Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, was completed in January 2010 and became the world's tallest building at 2,716 feet (828 meters) and 160 stories.
• Alcohol is served in licensed premises such as restaurants and bars located in hotels.
• UAE nationals usually wear traditional dress in public. For men, this is the kandura - a white full-length shirt-like garment, which is worn with a white or red-checkered headdress, known as a ghutra.
• Muslims are required to pray five times a day. The times vary according to the position of the sun.
• During the Ramadan celebrations, Non-Muslims are required to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public places during daylight hours.

About United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, extends along part of the Gulf of Oman and the southern coast of the Persian Gulf. Its neighbours are Saudi Arabia to the west and south, Qatar to the north, and Oman to the east. Most of the land is barren and sandy.

The land is largely hot, dry desert. Less than half of the inhabitants of the UAE are Arabs, while South Asians make up about 40%, and there are also Iranians, East Asians, and Europeans. Only about 20% of the UAE's population are native citizens. Muslims comprise 96% of the population (80% of these are Sunni, the balance Shiite) and the remaining 4% are largely Christian or Hindu. The official language is Arabic, but Farsi and English are widely used.

Federation formed in 1971 by seven emirates known as the Trucial States—Abu Dhabi (the largest), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Qaiwain. In addition to a federal president and prime minister, each emirate has a separate ruler who oversees the local government. Abu Dhabi is the largest and most populated of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, with over 80% of its landmass.

Originally, a seafaring people who were converted to Islam in the 7th century inhabited the area. Later, a powerful sheikdom was established and its army conquered Mecca. After the sheikdom disintegrated, its people became pirates. Threatening the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman early in the 19th century, the pirates provoked the intervention of the British, who in 1820 enforced a partial truce and in 1853 a permanent truce. Thus what had been called the Pirate Coast was renamed the Trucial Coast. The British provided the nine Trucial states with protection but did not formally administer them as a colony.

The British withdrew from the Persian Gulf in 1971, and the Trucial states became a federation called the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Two of the Trucial states, Bahrain and Oman, chose not to join the federation, reducing the number of states to seven.

Industries involving the area's oil and natural-gas deposits are still critical to the economy, and provide the bulk of export earnings. However, the country's increasingly diversified economy relies also on international banking, financial services, regional corporate headquarters, and tourism. The traditional occupations of fishing and pearling are still practiced, and there is some agriculture (dates, vegetables, watermelon and poultry). Aluminium, fertilizer, and textiles are manufactured, and there is commercial ship repair.

Temperatures range from a low of around 13C (50F) on a winter's night, to a high of around 42C (118F) on a summer's day. The cooler months, November to April, are the most pleasant time to visit, when temperatures are around 24C (75F) during the day and 13C (56F) at night.

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED or Dhs).

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Bachelor's Degrees in Ukraine

Study in Ukraine

Higher education in Ukraine has a centuries-old history, national traditions and high prestige in the world. Higher education in Ukraine provides developed training, scientific and social infrastructure and is ready to give equal opportunities to international students. Study courses are offered at different levels of education. A wide range of proficiency improvement courses and advanced courses are available.

The system of higher education in Ukraine has a flexible structure, corresponds to modern trends and tendencies to those in advanced countries recognized by UNESCO, UN Organization and many other international organization. In order to stimulate the application of general European educational standards, cooperation has gained depth with the Council of Europe, UNESCO, and other international organizations that work under the TEMPUS program.

Over one thousand occupational schools offer over 800 professional specializations. Students may choose among 313 (220 state and 93 private) universities, academies, and institutes as well as 658 (589 state and 69 private) educational institutions with first or second degree of accreditation. 500 educational institutions can offer supplementary education and the improvement of qualifications.

Higher education system

Since 1992, the whole system of Ukrainian post-secondary education has been regarded as "Higher Education".

According to the "Law on Education" of higher education, Ukraine has several categories of higher educational institutions, which correspond, as a rule, to different levels of accreditation:

• Level I - Vocational Training Schools;
• Level II - Technical Secondary Schools and Colleges;
• Level III - Universities, Academies, Institutes.

The levels of accreditation represent the hierarchy of degrees according to the qualification of graduates: Junior Specialist, Bachelor, Specialist and Master.

The higher educational institutions of III-IV levels of accreditation in Ukraine include over 180 state ones. About 40% of school-leavers have the opportunity to get higher education.

General application requirements

Prospective students who wish to attend a university in Ukraine should first file the university Application Form

Here is the list of Documents and information required to get official invitation letter:

• Name, Surname, middle name;
• Citizenship, country of residence;
• Date & place of birth, sex;
• Passport number and validity (date of issue & expiry);
• Permanent address, where you stayed last 6 months, mobile number, e-mail address;
• Name of the Country where you are going to obtain your visa;
• Scan copy of the international passport (pages with the photograph, date of birth and passport validity (date of issue & expiry).
• Scan copy of mark-sheets and certificate of Higher Secondary Education.
• The copy of birth certificate signed by a notary;
• Medical certificate that states you have no health problem or infectious diseases.

Prospective students for Master’s and Doctor’s programmes should present a Bachelor diploma or a Master diploma, respectively. Every year application for official invitation letter is accepted from the first week of April to the first week of November. Before applying make sure you ask for detailed application information from the university international office.

For more information visit: https://study-inukraine.com/Admission-2014/Admission-Steps.html

State academic structure

The structure of State higher education in Ukraine is:

• Universities (classical, technical & technological, economic, medical, agrarian, pedagogical, P.T. & sports, military, internal affairs);
• Academies (law, technical & technological, economic, medical, agrarian, culture & arts, military, internal affairs
• Institutes (technical & technological, economic, medical, agrarian, pedagogical, law, culture & arts, P.T. & sports, military, internal affairs).

 

Staff & students

Higher educational institutions possess powerful scientific and teaching potential. Scientific and teaching staff accounts about 80, 000 persons; among them - 4, 500 doctors of science, 33, 000 candidates of science, more than 5,000 professors and around 27, 000 assistant professors.

Graduates of higher educational institutions who have outstanding inclinations for scientific-research work have an opportunity to continue their studies at the post-graduate and doctorate course.

The vast network of post-graduate courses on different majors satisfies the needs in highly qualified specialists for different branches of industry, economics, science, culture and education. Training is carried out for 20 branches of science and 366 majors and it includes all the branches of training of the specialists of high qualification. There are 16,000 post-graduate students and around 1, 000 persons working for a doctor's degree. Training on majors, which determine the reform processes in the country (economics, law, social and political studies) is expanded now.

Study Visa

Prospective students should contact to nearest Ukraine Embassy or Consulate and provide the following documents :

• Original Invitation letter Documents Required
• Original international passport (valid for one year)
• Higher Secondary School certificate (For 1st year Bachelor Level students)
• Bachelor Degree (For Master Level students)
• Masters Degree (For PhD Level students)
• Transcripts (For Masters and PhD students)
• Birth Certificate
• Medical Certificate showing absence of Aids/HIV
• Medical Certificate showing physical and mental fitness
• Sponsorship Letter from the Parents/Person who is going to bear the expenses for student during stay/ studying in Ukraine.
• Bank Statement to prove financial ability.
• 8 Passport size Photos

Students should contact their local Ukranian Embassy for detailed information.

Also visit: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/student-visas.html

Living in Ukraine

• Monthly expenses are about $150 to $200 per month.
• In order to live comfortably while you are in all over the Ukraine, the student will need to have about 1200 USD to 1500 USD per year available for living costs, in addition to the cost of the tuition. The cost of living is cheaper, lot more than other European cities.
• Rent for shared hostel accommodation is around 300-600 USD per year.
• Rent for a flat in a private apartment per Month is 700-900 USD per year.
• You’ll also have the opportunity to visit some of Ukraine most famous and historical cities and sights, including Yalta, Odessa, red sea, etc.
• Indulge yourselves into social activities and organise theatre visits, meals, parties and trips to parks and paintballing venues.
• Moderate Climate around the year.
• Taking Three Months Jobs during the summer vacation in countries like U.K., Sweden, etc.
• Ukraine is a big agricultural country with different cooking traditions.
• Different food can be bought in shops, supermarkets, agricultural markets. Cafeterias, restaurants and fast food restaurants propose different cuisine. Indian and Pakistani mess is available.
• Students can spend as little as 70 to 100 USD per month on food.
• Kiev is the capital of modern Ukraine on the river Dnieper. Ancient churches, beautiful landscapes and a variety of cultural facilities can be found here.
• The city of Odessa is the largest trading center in Ukraine. It contains a variety of resorts at the Black Sea

About Ukraine

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. Ukraine borders the Russian Federation to the east and northeast, Belarus to the northwest, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary to the west, Romania and Moldova to the southwest, and the Black Sea and Sea of Azov to the south and southeast. It has an area of 603,628 km², making it the second largest European country after Russia.

In terms of population (47 million as of January 1, 2006), Ukraine ranks fifth in Europe The population density per one square kilometre amounts to an average of 85.6 people, the European average being 67.

The largest mountain system is the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains, which are part of the Eastern Carpathians. The mountains stretch to the west within the territories of the Transcarpathian, Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk and Chernivtsi regions.

The medieval state of Kievan Rus was established in the 9th century as the first historically recorded East Slavic state. It emerged as a powerful nation in the Middle Ages but disintegrated in the 12th century. By the middle of the 14th century, Ukrainian territories were under the rule of three external powers—the Golden Horde, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and the Kingdom of Poland. By the 19th century, the largest part of Ukraine was integrated into the Russian Empire, with the rest under Austro-Hungarian control.

A period of incessant warfare ensued, with establishment of internationally recognized independent Ukrainian People's Republic in 1917. Then Soviet intervention followed, which resulted in Soviet rule for more than 70 years. In 1945, the Ukrainian SSR became one of the founding members of the United Nations. Ukraine became independent again when the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991.

In its ethnic composition, Ukraine is a multi-ethnic Republic, inhabited by more than 110 ethnic groups, of which Ukrainian (72.7%) are the largest, followed by Russians, Jews, Belarussians, Moldovans, Bulgarians, Poles and Hungarians.

The country remains a globally important market and, as of 2012, is the world's sixth-largest grain exporter. Ukraine has a well-developed manufacturing sector, especially in the aerospace and industrial equipment field.

The considerable remoteness from oceans and continental Siberia tells favourably on the climate of Ukraine. Almost al of its territory is located in the temperate zone. Overall, the climate is temperately continental, and only on the southern shore of Crimea is it subtropical.

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