Training of specialists in chemistry at classical universities in the context of higher education reformation in Ukraine

The authors consider crisis phenomena in higher education of Ukraine of the last two decades and discuss necessary measures for improving the existing situation. It is stated that the role of chemical education in classical universities is to provide integrity, quality, and fundamental character of education. Information about Ukrainian higher education institutions training specialists in chemistry is given; distinguishing features of the existing two-level system of higher chemical education are described. The authors note that admission of students on the basis of external independent evaluation (testing) has a contradictory influence on the quality of education. Activities implemented by classical universities in order to select gifted and well prepared students are described.