The major stages of education in Albania are primary education lasting 9 years, secondary education which takes 3 additional years, and tertiary education offered at universities. Primary education is compulsory while most students continue to secondary. The academic year is divided into semesters from September/October to June/July. Vocational education provides an alternative to academic secondary programs, training students for the workforce. Universities are found in major cities like Tirana, with the largest being the public University of Tirana which was established in 1957.