Malta
Ireland
Global
Need an MQF Level 5 with 60 ECTS for Your Next Promotion?
A quick guide to how Malta’s public service salary scales work — and how to get the qualification you need without putting your career on hold.
Understanding Malta’s Public Service Salary Scales
The Malta public service uses a numbered salary scale system - currently running from Scale 1 (highest) down to Scale 16 (entry-level). Each step up the ladder represents a meaningful salary increase, and in many career streams, moving from one scale to the next is directly linked to the qualifications you hold.
The structure isn’t just about time served. In post after post advertised on the government’s recruitment portal, you’ll see the same pattern: your starting salary scale and your ability to progress are tied explicitly to your MQF qualification level and the number of ECTS credits it carries.
This isn’t an isolated example. Across dozens of public service roles - from Assistant Managers to Learning Support Educators (LSE) to Environmental Health Officers - the same logic applies: an MQF Level 5 diploma with 60 ECTS is what unlocks the next scale.
REAL EXAMPLE - ASSISTANT MANAGER ROLE (2026)
A 2026 circular for Assistant Manager posts across multiple ministries states that an officer in Scale 12 will progress to Scale 11 on attainment of the MQF Level 5 Diploma with 60 ECTS. Scale 11 in 2026 starts at €24,038 per year, rising to €26,290. That’s a jump worth hundreds of euros annually - triggered by a single qualification, achievable in around 6 months
Why Any MQF Level 5 with 60 ECTS Can Qualify
One of the most important things many government employees don’t realise is this: calls for applications in the Malta public service frequently list a broad range of accepted subject areas for the MQF Level 5 requirement. You are not necessarily locked into studying a specific subject.
For example, Assistant Manager circulars issued by various ministries list the following subjects as acceptable for the MQF Level 5 (60 ECTS) eligibility requirement:
- Accountancy and Finance
- Business Management.
- Leadership & Management
- Project Management
- Marketing
- Commerce
- Communications
- Public Administration
- Public Policy
- Logistics and Procurement
The key phrase you’ll often see in circulars is “or in relevant areas as determined by Management.” This gives HR departments flexibility - and it means your best path forward is to choose a diploma in a field that genuinely interests you or connects to your role, rather than stressing about picking the “right” subject.
What matters most is that your qualification is:
- Recognised at MQF Level 5
- A minimum of 60 ECTS credits
- Awarded by an MFHEA-recognised institution, with an MQRIC statement for confirmation
You’re Already Working Full-Time. Now What?
Here’s the real problem most people face: you know you need the qualification, but you can’t just stop working for two years to go back to university. You have a job, responsibilities, and - if you’re honest - a life.
This is exactly where Elephant & Cross was built to help.
Our online diplomas are designed from the ground up for working professionals. There are no fixed lecture times, no commuting, and no rigid academic calendar. You study at your own pace - on your lunch break, at the weekend, or whenever suits you.
What Makes Our Diplomas Different
- Fully accredited: Our programmes are recognised at MQF Level 5 and carry 60 ECTS credits - meeting the exact requirement for government promotion calls.
- Completely self-paced: No real-time attendance required. Study around your own busy schedule.
- Tutor support included: You’re not alone. Our team is available to guide you with 1-to-1 sessions through your studies from enrolment to certification. Sessions are available on weekends and evenings, designed to make everything as flexible as possible.
- Designed for professionals: Course content draws on real-world application, making it immediately relevant to your day job.
- Get Qualified Scheme eligible: Individuals with a Maltese income tax ID number are entitled to apply for a 70% refund with the Get Qualified initiative.
About The Get Qualified Schema
Haven’t Finished Your Diploma Yet? You Can Still Apply.
One thing that catches many people off guard: you do not need to have already completed your diploma to include it in a public service application.
Malta’s recruitment circulars consistently include a provision allowing candidates who are currently enrolled in a recognised programme at the required MQF level to apply - provided they can demonstrate they will complete the required ECTS credits by the application’s closing date. Some circulars also accept candidates who have been “approved for the award” of the qualification even before the certificate is formally issued.
This means that if you start your diploma now and are making progress, you may already be eligible for the next call for applications that comes up in your ministry or department - without waiting until you hold the certificate in your hands. Get in touch with your dedicated course advisor to request a letter of confirmation that you’re on the course - this is often enough to satisfy the requirements before you graduate.
What Courses Can I Apply For?
Here are some examples of MQF Level 5 qualifications with 60 ECTS available through Elephant & Cross:
- Business Management (Most Popular) - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- HR Management - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- Accounting and Finance - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- Leadership and Teamwork (Fastest Option) - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- IT and Computing - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- Marketing - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
- Health and Social Care - EQF Level 5 · 60 ECTS
Not sure which one is right for your role? Our advisors can help you match the right diploma to the specific call for applications you’re targeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
My diploma was issued outside Malta. Is it still valid?
Qualifications issued by non-Maltese institutions are generally accepted, but you will need to submit a formal recognition statement from MQRIC (Malta Qualifications Recognition and Information Centre) alongside your application. Our programmes are all MFHEA recognised - ask us for a copy of the MFHEA statement.
How long does it take to complete a diploma with Elephant & Cross?
Because our programmes are self-paced, completion time varies on how much time you’re able to dedicate to the course. Most working professionals complete their 60 ects diploma within 6 to 8 months. If you have a specific call for applications in mind with a closing date, let us know - we can help you map out a realistic study plan.
Is the diploma recognised by MFHEA?
Yes. All Elephant & Cross programmes are fully accredited and recognised at the appropriate MQF level - meeting the requirements set out in Malta public service recruitment circulars.
Can I apply for a promotion while still studying?
In most cases, yes. Government circulars regularly allow candidates who are enrolled in a recognised programme to apply, provided they can show they will complete the required ECTS credits by the application deadline. This is a critical advantage - starting your studies now means you may not have to wait until full graduation to apply for the role you want.
What is the Get Qualified Scheme and do I qualify?
The Get Qualified Scheme is a government initiative that provides a personal tax credit of up to 70% of your certified course fees when you study an accredited programme. It is available to individuals who have an income tax ID number. Eligibility depends on your specific circumstances, and we can help you determine whether your chosen programme qualifies when you get in touch.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Talk to us about which diploma is the right fit for your career goals - and how quickly you could get started. Schedule a call with an advisor via the link here.
