Abstract
The article deals with topical issues of solving problems to improve the training of students in higher educational institutions. The pedagogical conditions for the formation of professional competence of students of higher educational institutions are studied, the concept of "professional competence" is revealed, its essence, structure is considered, and its content is determined. The system of professional competence formation among students of higher educational institutions is presented and its elements are characterized. This article defines the relevance of the task of improving the training of students of higher educational institutions and the formation of professional activity of a specialist at the present stage of the development of the education system. The concept of professional competence as an integral professionally significant characteristic of a specialist's personality is clarified. Professional competencies that make up the structure of pedagogical competence are defined and classified into groups in accordance with the main areas of work with personnel. The essence of the process of forming professional competence as a pedagogical system is revealed and the main elements of this system are characterized.