The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Panagiotis Partsinevelos is a Professor of Space Informatics and Unmanned Systems and Director of the Laboratory of Geodesy and Informatics of Geosciences at the School of Mineral Resources Engineering of the Technical University of Crete.  He is also the Director of the MSc in Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources and Raw Materials.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Panagiotis Partsinevelos on the MSc in Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources and Raw Materials, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

School of Mineral Resources Engineering of the Technical University of Crete at Chania

Please give us a brief overview of the MSc in Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources and Raw Materials, its structure and main research areas.

The Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources and Raw Materials MSc is a 3-semester 90 ECTS program delivered under a hybrid mode in English by the School of Mineral Resources Engineering of the Technical University of Crete. It is structured around two core pillars: Energy Resources, focusing on reservoir engineering, Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS), and biofuels and Raw Materials, focusing on low-grade ore and near-zero-waste processing, critical raw materials recovery and recycling. These scientific areas are supported by high-end research laboratories equipped with advanced technological infrastructure, from geostatistical modeling and seismic processing to geoinformatics, automation and robotics. In addition, the implementation of many national and EU-funded projects in our School enables students to get acquainted with top quality research that advances beyond the current state of the art (SoA) and generates scientific breakthrough. The contribution of this Master’s program lies in providing high-level expertise in the extraction, processing, recycling, and environmental management of mineral raw materials and energy resources, a matter of strategic importance at both the national and global levels.

Could you tell us a few things about the program’s alignment with the Technical University of Crete’s broader picture and goals for internationalization?

The program extends well beyond the University’s strategy since the energy and mineral resources fields define the backbone of modern economies and the primary reason for geopolitical balance. The program provides the knowledge of sustainable extraction methods for strategic autonomy in the supply chains of rare earth elements and energy resources while enabling students to decouple the link between economic growth and environmental degradation through circular economy principles.

Thus, internationalization is a defining necessity and prerequisite of our program, scaled from local to global challenges.

In addition, through its core participation in the EURECA-PRO European University alliance, one of the strategic University alliances across Europe, the MSc program facilitates the cross-border mobility of engineering talent required to implement UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The MSc addresses a multicultural academic environment. It directly connects TUC’s engineering expertise with the European industrial network, facilitating mobility and collaborative research across borders.

“Sustainability” seems to be a term used so frequently that it may lose its meaning. How does sustainability take form in your MSc?

In this program, sustainability is defined by technical efficiency and hands-on results. It is embedded in the Low Environmental Footprint modules and Sustainable Mineral Processing objectives. Rather than theoretical discussion, sustainability in our program is translated to engineering systems that minimize waste, maximize the recovery of secondary raw materials from industrial by-products, and ensure the geomechanical safety of energy infrastructure. On the principle of technical verticality, sustainable solutions cannot be dissociated from a full understanding of the physical processes of production and extraction, requiring deep knowledge of thermodynamics, geomechanics, and chemical processing. Meaningful decarbonization and resource efficiency are not achieved through administrative management alone, but through the fundamental redesign and reengineering of industrial workflows, essential to the global industrial transition. In addition to the term “sustainability” we also introduce and justify another term in our MSc program, “responsible” mining and processing of raw materials mainly for the production of critical and strategic elements.

Please give us a few examples of the professional prospects for graduates of the program.

Graduates enter the global market as specialized engineers capable of leading and managing the routes of the energy transition and raw materials challenges. Career paths include resource engineers for the critical minerals supply chain, subsurface engineers for carbon sequestration and geothermal projects, environmental engineers in the recycling industries and consultants for international energy firms navigating the transition to net-zero, Social License to Operate (SLO) and ESG Governance. Also, the future of the sector focuses on digital mining, automation, robotic systems, digital twins, AI, In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU)and data analytics, to drive sustainability, circular economy practices, and environmental risk mitigation in industrial extraction sectors. 

Could you share a few insights on the international outlook of the program? What impact will your graduates expect to create in sustainable development on a global level?

The program specifically addresses the technical demands of the European Green Deal and the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). The program aligns with the global shift to a sustainable energy economy, projecting a substantial increase in mineral demand by 2050, especially for battery metals, to meet net-zero targets. By mastering the extraction and processing of the materials required for renewable technologies, our graduates play a decisive role in securing global supply chains. Their impact will be reflected in the implementation of "Near-Zero-Waste" protocols and the development of cleaner energy resources that reduce global reliance on carbon-intensive fuels.

What is the one defining quality of your MSc that you believe makes it especially attractive to international students?

The defining quality of the MSc in Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources is that it offers a direct path into the strategic autonomy sectors of the global economy, where the demand for expertise currently far exceeds the available supply. While many international programs address "sustainability" from a policy or environmental management perspective, this MSc focuses on the physicality of the transition, teaching the technologies required to secure the supply of critical raw materials (Lithium, Nickel. Cobalt, Copper, Rare Earth Elements) which are currently the primary bottleneck in the global economy.

By bridging the fields of raw material and energy resources, the program equips international students with the ability to understand and solve the energy-materials balance. This provides a direct path to becoming a high-level technical leader in the most strategic sectors of the future global economy.

Applications are now open! For more, follow the link:

https://apply.studyingreece.edu.gr/en/programmes/msc/1650/details/sustainable-technologies-of-energy-resources-and-raw-materials

Chania is a vibrant student city where history, innovation, and natural beauty meet. An inspiring Mediterranean destination offering exceptional quality of life and outdoor experiences. (Photo: https://www.visitgreece.gr/)

Read more:

https://www.visitgreece.gr/islands/crete/chania/

https://www.chaniatourism.gr/

The post International Program Stories / MSc in Sustainable Technologies of Energy Resources and Raw Materials at the Technical University of Crete, Chania appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Panayotis Glavinis is Dean of the Faculty of Law and Professor of International Economic Law at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He teaches International Trade Law, International Investment Law, International Business Transactions, Development Cooperation, and Energy Law at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Professor Glavinis has extensive experience in domestic and international arbitration, including proceedings under ICC, UNCITRAL, and ICSID rules. Since 2004, he has served as a member of the Commission on Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce, and he was the first General Secretary of the Mediation Center of the Thessaloniki Bar Association. He also serves as Director of the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) program.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Panayotis Glavinis on the International LL.B. of the Faculty of Law of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Please provide us with an overview of the new Bachelor of Laws’ structure and main research areas.

The International LL.B. of the Faculty of Law of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is a full four-year, 240-ECTS Bachelor of Laws taught entirely in English. It has been designed as a rigorous European law degree with a genuinely global outlook: academically demanding, professionally relevant, and deeply attentive to the kind of legal world our students are preparing to enter.

What makes the programme distinctive is that it does not ask students to choose between legal tradition and legal innovation. It gives them both. The curriculum is firmly anchored in the civil law tradition and in the intellectual discipline of legal science, while opening the classroom to comparative law, common law reasoning, European Union law, international law, digital regulation and the realities of cross-border legal practice.

The structure is carefully sequenced across eight semesters. Students begin with the foundations that every serious lawyer needs: private law, public law, constitutional law, criminal law, legal methodology, contract, property, tort, administrative law, corporate law, tax law, civil procedure and criminal procedure. From there, they move into the wider architecture of modern legal practice: EU law, public and private international law, human rights, migration, refugee and asylum law, banking and finance, international economic law, international business transactions, international litigation and alternative dispute resolution.

A key strength of the programme is its future-facing dimension. Courses in Computer Law and GDPR, Digital Law, Intellectual Property, Energy Law, Environmental Law, Competition and Consumer Protection, and AI-related regulation ensure that students are not only trained in what law has been, but in what law is becoming. This is further supported by AI-enhanced learning tools, comparative legal analysis, negotiation training, moot court participation and ADR simulations, all of which help students develop the judgement, confidence and practical fluency expected of the next generation of lawyers.

In the final year, students personalise their academic pathway through elective courses drawn from three specialised clusters: Greek law and legal terminology, including Cypriot Law; Common Law, including Contract, Tort, Property, Equity and Trusts; and Maritime Studies, including International Law of the Sea, International Maritime Law, Shipping Law and Marine Insurance. This allows each student to shape a profile that reflects their ambitions, whether they are looking towards European or international legal practice, common law jurisdictions, the shipping and maritime sector, or professional qualification routes connected to Greece and Cyprus.

The programme is also embedded in a living research environment. The Faculty’s research activity gives students exposure to some of the most important questions facing law and society today: digital transformation and artificial intelligence, transparency and financial crime, medical law and bioethics, European legal culture, human rights, migration, international dispute resolution, private law, commercial law, maritime law and law and technology.

Research units such as the DTAIL Lab for Law, Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence, the Research Institute for Transparency, Corruption and Financial Crime, the Laboratory for the Research of Medical Law and Bioethics, and the Centre for European Legal Culture create an academic ecosystem in which students encounter law not as a static body of rules, but as a living discipline that responds to society, business, technology and human need.

At its heart, this LL.B. is about forming lawyers who can think across systems, speak the language of Europe and the world, use technology responsibly, argue with precision, and understand the human stakes behind every legal question. It is a programme for students who want more than a degree: they want a legal education with depth, direction and purpose.

How does the program align with the general extroversion strategy of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki?

The International LL.B. is a direct expression of Aristotle University’s strategic commitment to internationalisation. The programme is designed to attract a diverse international student body from across the world and to establish the Faculty of Law as a leading destination for English-taught legal education in Southeast Europe.

This vision is embedded within a broader institutional framework. The Faculty maintains academic partnerships with universities in more than 20 countries, including University of California, Berkeley, LMU Munich, University of Cologne, University of Belgrade, and Koç University. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is also a member of the EPICUR European Universities Alliance and participates in one of the largest Erasmus+ networks in Greece, with approximately 600 partner institutions worldwide. The programme also complements the Faculty’s established LL.M. in European Business and Economic Law, creating a seamless pathway from undergraduate to postgraduate studies and further strengthening the University’s international academic profile. Together with the growing number of English-taught programmes across the University, the International LL.B. positions Aristotle University as a dynamic centre of globally oriented higher education in the wider region.

Artificial Intelligence and modern technologies have brought a considerable shift in many aspects of legal methodology and practice. How does the program tackle these emerging challenges?

The programme approaches the intersection of law and technology on two complementary levels: as a field of legal study and as an innovative mode of teaching.

At the curricular level, students engage directly with the legal challenges of the digital age through mandatory courses such as Computer Law and GDPR, Digital Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Energy Law. Topics include AI regulation, cybersecurity, platform governance, data protection, and the evolving European framework shaped by the Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts. These subjects are integrated into the core curriculum, ensuring that every graduate develops a strong understanding of how technology is reshaping legal systems, markets, and society.

At the pedagogical level, the programme is among the first in Europe to integrate an AI-driven teaching assistant designed for real-time comparative legal analysis. Working alongside traditional lectures, the platform enhances interactivity, supports cross-jurisdictional learning, and enables students to engage more dynamically with legal sources and comparative reasoning.

This commitment is further reinforced by the Faculty’s Dtail Lab which explores the relationship between law, technology, and society, with particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, data protection, cybersecurity, and algorithmic transparency. Through seminars, research activities, and coursework connected to the Lab’s work, students are exposed to some of the most important legal and regulatory developments shaping the future of the profession.

Does the program include legal training in both continental and common law?

Yes, and this is a deliberate feature of the programme’s design. The International LL.B. is firmly grounded in the continental civil law tradition, offering students a comprehensive education across the core fields of private and public law. At the same time, it recognises the growing importance of legal fluency across systems in an increasingly international profession.

For this reason, the programme includes a dedicated Common Law elective module in the final year, comprising four specialised courses: Contract Law, Restitution and Tort, Property Law, and Equity and the Law of Trusts. This allows students to develop a meaningful understanding of common law reasoning alongside their civil law training.

This dual orientation is particularly valuable for students from mixed jurisdictions such as Cyprus, where civil law and common law traditions coexist, as well as for those aspiring to careers in international law firms, cross-border transactions, arbitration, and global legal practice, where comparative legal understanding is a significant professional asset.

Beyond the elective module, the comparative perspective is embedded throughout the curriculum. Mandatory courses such as Comparative Law: Introduction to Major Legal Systems and European and Comparative Constitutional Law encourage students to think across jurisdictions from the very beginning of their studies and to approach legal problems with a genuinely international and comparative mindset.et.

In terms of international degree recognition, what are the options for graduates regarding legal practice and employability?

The LL.B. is a national degree awarded by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, a public university of the Hellenic Republic. As such, it requires no separate recognition procedure by DOATAP or any other body in Greece and carries the same institutional standing as any degree awarded by a Greek public university.

For Cyprus, the competent authority for academic recognition is KYSATS. Greece and Cyprus maintain a bilateral agreement for the mutual recognition of academic qualifications, and KYSATS gives explicit priority to degrees from EU institutions, particularly from Greece. The Greek-taught law degree of the Faculty is already recognised in Cyprus, and the International LL.B. carries the same institutional standing. The programme's Common Law and Cypriot Law modules are specifically designed to support graduates aiming for professional qualification in Cyprus.

More broadly, graduates who have completed the relevant coursework and meet the requirements of their chosen jurisdiction may access the further procedures leading to professional qualification in civil law and common law jurisdictions alike. Access to professional practice in any jurisdiction is subject to the specific requirements of the relevant Bar Association.

In terms of employability, the programme opens pathways to EU institutions, international organisations (EU, Council of Europe, OSCE, UN and specialised agencies, ICC, World Bank), international law firms, multinational corporations, the maritime industry, and NGOs working in human rights. Meeting the Bologna benchmark for integrated legal studies, graduates can also progress directly into the Faculty's LL.M. in European Business and Economic Law, creating a combined five-year pathway of 315 ECTS.

If you could send a message to prospective students interested in studying law, what would you say to make them consider your program?

This is a law degree for students who refuse to compromise between academic excellence and a meaningful student experience. You study at one of Europe’s oldest and most distinguished law faculties, guided by more than 70 tenured professors who bring together Greek, European, and international legal perspectives. The programme offers the full intellectual depth of legal education, from constitutional and criminal law to maritime law, digital law, and international arbitration, while also becoming one of the first in Europe to integrate AI-driven learning into legal education.

But what truly shapes the experience is the environment in which you live and study. Thessaloniki is a city that combines energy with quality of life: vibrant, affordable, international, and deeply human. Within minutes, students move from lecture halls to the waterfront, from libraries to cafés, and from academic life to a city rich in culture, history, and creativity. It is a place where students can focus, belong, and grow.

And when you graduate, you leave with more than a degree. You hold a nationally recognised EU law qualification from a Faculty whose alumni have gone on to become Presidents of the Republic, Prime Ministers, senior judges, and leading practitioners. You join a Faculty with a strong international presence and a distinguished record in global moot court competitions, with award-winning performances in The Hague, Strasbourg, Luxembourg, and Washington.

This is more than an LL.B. It is the foundation for a legal career that is international in outlook, ambitious in scope, and without borders.

Applications are now open! For more, follow the link:

https://apply.studyingreece.edu.gr/en/programmes/bsc/1731/details/bachelor-of-laws-llb

The post International Program Stories / International LL.B. of the Faculty of Law of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

George L. Adonakis  (upper left) is a Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics and serves as Chair of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Patras. George C. Kagadis  (lower left) is a Professor of Medical Physics and Medical Informatics at the University of Patras, with expertise in biomedical imaging, data analysis, and healthcare technologies. He also serves as Director of the English-taught Medical Degree Program.

Study in Greece interviewed Professors George L. Adonakis and George C. Kagadis about the newly established English-taught medical degree at the University of Patras, focusing on its key features and the opportunities it offers to international students, including its modern curriculum, strong clinical training, global orientation, and support for students coming from abroad.

Please provide us with an overview of the new international Medical Degree of the University of Patras, its program structure and main research areas.

The English Medical Program (EMP) of the University of Patras is a six-year, 360-ECTS undergraduate medical degree delivered entirely in English, admitting fifty students per academic year. The curriculum is organized around three integrated modules: a preclinical foundation in the first two years, a clinical phase from the third through the fifth year, and a dedicated clinical practice module in the fifth and sixth years at the University General Hospital of Patras (PGNP) — one of the largest teaching hospitals in Greece — and at the University Health Centre. We have deliberately moved away from a purely lecture-based model, weaving in case-based discussions, small-group teaching, laboratory work, simulation-based clinical skills training from the very first semesters, and hybrid digital learning, so that each topic is taught by the most specialized faculty member and in the format best suited to it.

The School of Medicine's research strengths — which directly inform the teaching — span molecular biology and genetics, neurosciences, oncology, cardiovascular and pulmonary medicine, medical physics and biomedical imaging, public health, and translational clinical research, supported by fully equipped laboratories, core research infrastructures, and a broad network of international collaborations. A defining feature of the EMP is that during the first six semesters students also follow Greek-language courses, so that by the time they enter intensive clinical rotations they can communicate meaningfully with patients and colleagues. Tuition is €12,000 per year, and few merit- and need-based scholarships are awarded annually.

How does the establishment of the program align with the University of Patras strategy for internationalization and extroversion?

The EMP is a concrete expression of a strategy the University of Patras has been advancing for some years now — moving from being a distinguished national institution to being a genuinely international one. An English-taught medical degree is, frankly, one of the most demanding undertakings a university can launch: it requires mature research infrastructure, a critical mass of English-proficient faculty, a major university hospital, and the administrative capacity to support international students end-to-end. The fact that the University of Patras can deliver all of this is, in itself, a statement about where the institution stands today. Beyond the program itself, the EMP deepens our collaborations with international academic centres, attracts faculty and researchers from abroad, and — importantly — brings to our campus a diverse student community that enriches the experience of every student at Patras, Greek and international alike.

Your program is the first international program of the University of Patras to begin at an undergraduate level. Would you say that it is only the first of many?

I would say so, yes — and I think that is the right ambition for the University. Launching an undergraduate program in English, particularly one as demanding as medicine, builds institutional capability that extends well beyond a single department: standardised international admissions, student support for non-EU applicants, academic advising in English, quality assurance aligned with international expectations. Once that infrastructure exists, other schools can build on it far more readily than if each were starting from zero. Medicine is a natural first step because of the sustained international demand for high-quality, English-taught medical education in Europe, but I fully expect the University of Patras to offer further English-taught undergraduate programs in the years ahead.

What kind of student life should applicants expect in your program?

Patras is one of the friendliest student cities in Greece — a coastal city of roughly 200,000 people, large enough to feel cosmopolitan and small enough that students quickly feel at home. Our campus sits on the Gulf of Patras with views across to the mountains of mainland Greece, and students move easily between lecture halls, laboratories, the university hospital, cafés, and the sea. The EMP admits fifty students a year from around the world, which creates a close-knit, multicultural cohort in which friendships form quickly and cross every border.

Beyond the classroom, students have access to the full range of University of Patras facilities — libraries, sports and athletic clubs, cultural societies, and student associations — and to the Erasmus+ mobility network for exchanges across Europe and beyond. Because we teach Greek during the first three years, our international students integrate into local life in a way that is genuinely unusual for English-taught programs: they can chat with the baker, understand the news, travel independently around the country. Greece itself is, of course, part of the experience — the history, the islands, the food, and a pace of life that students tell us they come to love.

Advanced Light Microscopy

Could you say a few words on clinical training provisions for students in your program?

Clinical training is the heart of this program, and we have structured it deliberately. From the very first semesters, students acquire essential clinical skills in a simulation environment under the supervision of clinical faculty — so that by the time they step onto a ward, the fundamentals of patient examination, communication, and basic procedures are already familiar. From the third year onwards, clinical teaching is integrated: foundational science is taught alongside the corresponding clinical discipline, so students build basic and clinical knowledge in parallel rather than in sequence. Every student maintains a clinical logbook documenting the competencies they must demonstrate, and completion of that logbook is a prerequisite for final clinical examinations.

The bulk of clinical training takes place at the University General Hospital of Patras, a major tertiary referral center covering the full range of medical and surgical specialties, complemented by the University Health Centre for primary care exposure. The fifth and sixth years are devoted entirely to clinical practice — effectively two full years of supervised, hands-on rotations — which is where students consolidate everything they have learned and step into the role of a junior doctor in training.

What degree of recognition will students have upon graduation and what kind of gateways for residencies or specializations should be expected?

Graduates of the EMP receive the Medical Degree of the University of Patras — the same degree awarded to graduates of our Greek-language program, with no distinction whatsoever on the diploma. Because the degree is issued by a Greek public university accredited by the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education, it is automatically recognized across the European Union under the EU's Directive on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications (2005/36/EC), meaning graduates can pursue residency training and medical practice in any EU/EEA member state after fulfilling local registration requirements.

Beyond the EU, our graduates will be well positioned to sit the licensing examinations that open most major medical systems — the USMLE in the United States, the PLAB/UKMLA in the United Kingdom, the MCCQE in Canada, and equivalent pathways in Australia, the Gulf, and elsewhere. Our curriculum is deliberately benchmarked against international standards so that students are prepared for these examinations as a natural extension of their studies, not as a separate undertaking. Within Greece, graduates can enter the national residency system across the full range of specialties. In short: a degree from the EMP is a globally portable qualification, and a graduate's choice of where to specialize is just that — a choice.

Applications are now open! For more, follow the link:

https://apply.studyingreece.edu.gr/en/programmes/bsc/1732/details/medical-degree-by-university-of-patras.

The post International Program Stories – Medical Degree at the University of Patras appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Konstantinos Alexandris is a Professor and Dean of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He also serves as Director of the newly established Bachelor's program, “Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance,” which is designed for students interested in the scientific principles of human movement, athletic performance, and health. He leads several European Union and nationally funded research projects (including Erasmus+, Interreg, and Innovation programs), focusing on sport tourism, sustainability, and the promotion of active living.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Konstantinos Alexandris on the Bachelor program “Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance,” its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Professor Alexandris, please provide us with a brief overview of the brand new Bachelor in “Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance”, its structure and main research areas.

The Bachelor in Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance is a newly established, fully English‑taught undergraduate program designed to offer an international, modern, and scientifically grounded education in the fields of sport, health, and human performance. Delivered jointly by the Schools of Physical Education and Sport Science of Thessaloniki and Serres at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the program spans 4 years (240 ECTS) and integrates academic study with hands‑on professional training.

Program Focus

Students follow a structured curriculum that blends:

• Scientific coursework in sport and exercise sciences
• Laboratory‑based training using state‑of‑the‑art facilities
• Applied practice and fieldwork in real‑world sport and health environments
• Research activities that develop analytical and critical thinking skills

This combination ensures graduates gain both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies relevant to contemporary professional settings.

Specialization Pathways

Students choose one of two focused pathways:

• Sport Performance Emphasizes coaching science, athletic performance optimization, training methodologies, and applied sport analysis.
• Exercise for Health and Rehabilitation Focuses on exercise prescription, health promotion, chronic disease prevention, and rehabilitation strategies.

Graduate Outcomes

The program prepares students for diverse careers in:

• Sport Sciences and Performance analysis
• Exercise, Fitness, and Wellness professions
• Health promotion and rehabilitation settings
• Sport development officers
• Research and postgraduate academic pathways

Graduates are equipped with the scientific knowledge, practical skills, and international perspective required to work in multidisciplinary environments across the global sport, health, and exercise sectors.

What would you say are the qualities that help your Bachelor’s program stand out, compared to others of its kind?

• A World‑Class University

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is one of the largest Europe’s leading universities, internationally recognized for excellence in education, research, and innovation. Its long academic tradition and global reputation provide students with a strong and respected academic foundation.

• A Top‑Tier School of Physical Education and Sport Science

The School of Physical Education and Sport Science is consistently ranked among the top institutions worldwide in sport science research, education, and professional training. The school has more than 3,000 undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students, taught and supported by over 100 faculty members who are actively engaged in international collaborations and cutting‑edge research. Several world‑leading researchers teach within the school. Numerous EU‑funded projects are coordinated by faculty, offering students opportunities for international exposure, networking, and hands‑on research experience.

• Strong Integration of Science, Practice, and International Orientation

The program uniquely blends academic knowledge with applied training and real‑world experience. It is designed specifically for international students and to be delivered in a multicultural academic environment. It emphasizes laboratory work, field practice, and evidence‑based approaches. This combination ensures graduates are prepared for global careers in sport, health, and human performance.

• Thessaloniki: A Student‑Friendly European City

Thessaloniki is known for being:

Affordable, compared to other major European cities

Multicultural and vibrant

Safe and welcoming for international students

Its lively student community and rich cultural life make it an ideal place to study and live.

• Greece: The Birthplace of Sport and the Olympic Ideals

Studying sport science in Greece adds a unique cultural and historical dimension. Students experience the origins of sport, physical culture, and the Olympic spirit — an inspiring backdrop for academic and professional development.

• Competitive Tuition and Cost of Living

The program offers excellent value with its competitive tuition fees. The cost of living in Thessaloniki is also significantly lower than many European university cities. This makes high‑quality international education more accessible.

What kind of facilities and labs does the program include and what are the practical applications for them?

Exceptional Facilities and State‑of‑the‑Art Laboratories

The school is located within a dedicated sport campus of more than 200 acres, offering one of the most comprehensive sport and exercise environments in the region. The campus includes:

• Two fully equipped indoor sport courts
• Four football pitches
• Multiple tennis courts
• A full track and field stadium
• Modern fitness and strength‑training facilities

These facilities support both academic learning and high‑level athletic development.

The School also hosts state‑of‑the‑art laboratories specializing in:

• Sport medicine
• Biomechanics
• Coaching science
• Motor learning and control
• Exercise physiology
• Sport psychology
• Sport and tourism management

These labs are used extensively for research, teaching, and professional consultation, giving students direct access to advanced scientific tools and real‑world applications.

What are the academic or professional prospects that students are expected to have upon graduation?

Career and Academic Prospects

Graduates of the BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance complete the program with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and a comprehensive set of practical skills. This combination enables them to pursue a wide range of professional and academic pathways in the sport, health, and human performance sectors.

Professional Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers across multiple fields, including:

• Sport science and performance analysis
• Health and fitness industries
• Clinical exercise and rehabilitation settings
• Coaching and athletic development
• Sport management and administration

Indicative professional roles include:

• Sport scientist
• Clinical exercise specialist
• Coach or performance trainer
• Fitness instructor
• Health and wellness advisor
• Educator for individuals with disabilities
• Sport development officer
• Sport manager

Academic Pathways

The program also provides a strong platform for further study. Graduates are well‑prepared to pursue postgraduate degrees (MSc and PhD) in areas in sport related areas.

In what way does your program align with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki’s broader strategy for internationalization?

A Strong Commitment to Internationalisation

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki maintains an extensive global network, with more than 600 Erasmus partnerships and over 4.000 international students enrolled across its programs. As a university that actively promotes internationalisation, it fosters a vibrant, multicultural academic environment where students from diverse backgrounds learn and collaborate.

The BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance is fully aligned with the University’s mission to expand international education. By offering high‑quality English‑taught undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the University strengthens its global presence and provides international students with accessible pathways to study in Greece.

If you could send a message to a student who is considering studying in your program, what would it that message be?

This program offers a unique opportunity to study sport and exercise sciences within a truly international, research‑driven, and multicultural environment. By choosing this degree, you will gain not only strong theoretical foundations and advanced practical skills, but also the experience of becoming part of a dynamic academic community in Greece — the birthplace of sport and the Olympic ideals.

You will be encouraged to challenge yourself, think critically, and engage with real‑world applications across sport performance, health, and rehabilitation. Throughout your studies, you will develop competencies that are highly valued in scientific, clinical, and professional environments around the world.

If you are passionate about sport, health, and human performance, this program offers a powerful foundation for a meaningful and globally relevant career. It provides not only knowledge and practical skills, but also the opportunity to grow within an international academic community shaped by the rich cultural heritage of Greece — the birthplace of sport and the Olympic ideals.

Applications are now open! For more, follow the link:

https://apply.studyingreece.edu.gr/en/programmes/bsc/1729/details/sport-and-exercise-sciences-for-health-and-performance.

The post International Program Stories: Bachelor in “Sport and Exercise Sciences for Health and Performance” in Thessaloniki appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Manolis I. Stefanakis is Professor of Classical Archaeology and Numismatics in the Department of Mediterranean Studies at the University of the Aegean, where he also serves as Director of the BA in Eastern Mediterranean Studies (Archaeology–History–Culture). His research focuses on Classical Archaeology and Ancient Greek Numismatics, with particular emphasis on the interdisciplinary fields of Archaeology and Sustainability and Archaeoseismology.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Manolis I. Stefanakis on the BA in Eastern Mediterranean Studies, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Professor Stefanakis, please give us an overview of the brand new BA program in Eastern Mediterranean Studies, its structure and its main research areas.

The BA in Eastern Mediterranean Studies (Archaeology–History–Culture) is a four-year, interdisciplinary undergraduate program, fully taught in English and exclusively addressed to an international student body. The program focuses on the study of the Eastern Mediterranean from prehistoric times to the late Byzantine and medieval periods, combining approaches from archaeology, history, and classical and cultural studies. Its structure offers students a solid theoretical background alongside methodological training, encouraging comparative and cross-cultural perspectives. The main research areas include material culture, historical processes, cultural interaction, and the long-term dynamics that shaped societies across the Eastern Mediterranean world in the past.

How does your BA align with the general extroversion strategy and internationalization goals of the University of the Aegean?

The program is fully aligned with the internationalization strategy of the University of the Aegean. Being the first undergraduate program of the university taught entirely in English and exclusively addressed to international students, it significantly enhances the institution’s outward-looking orientation and global academic presence. By welcoming students from different countries and academic backgrounds, the BA in Eastern Mediterranean Studies promotes academic mobility, intercultural exchange, and international collaboration.

Could you give us more insights about the correlation between the subject of the program and the university’s key location?

The program’s subject matter is deeply connected to the geographical location of the Department of Mediterranean Studies: Archaeology, Linguistics, International Relations of the University of the Aegean, based on the island of Rhodes. Situated at a historical crossroads of the Eastern Mediterranean, Rhodes offers a unique living laboratory of archaeological sites and cultural landscapes spanning multiple historical periods. This strategic location allows students to directly engage with the material and historical realities they study.

What future prospects does your BA program open up for its graduates in the academic field and in the job market?

Graduates are well prepared for postgraduate studies and academic research in archaeology, history, heritage studies, and Mediterranean studies. Beyond academia, the program equips students for careers in museums, cultural institutions, heritage management, education, cultural tourism, international organizations, and the public and private sectors.

Your program is the first international undergraduate program featured in the University of the Aegean. Would you say that it is the first of many to be established in the university?

As the first, indeed, international undergraduate program of the University of the Aegean, this BA marks an important milestone. It reflects the institution’s commitment to expanding English-taught degrees and strengthening international outreach. While no official announcements have been made, I am sure that the program will serve as a model for future international initiatives.

What would you say to students that are interested in pursuing an academic path in this specific discipline to consider your program?

Students interested in the history, archaeology, and cultures of the Eastern Mediterranean will find this program an excellent foundation for an academic career. It offers a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum within an international academic environment. The program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to scholarship, cultural heritage, and international dialogue, while offering an insight on living history on the island of Rhodes.

Applications are now open! For more, follow the link:

https://apply.studyingreece.edu.gr/en/programmes/bsc/1728/details/eastern-mediterranean-studies-archaeology-history-culture

The post International Program Stories / BA in Eastern Mediterranean Studies appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Dimitris Glotsos is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of West Attica and the Director of the MSc Program “Biomedical Engineering and Technology”. His research interests include pattern recognition, medical image processing and analysis, bioinformatics and microscopy.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Dimitris Glotsos on the MSc Program “Biomedical Engineering and Technology”, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Please provide us with an overview of the MSc in Biomedical Engineering & Technology’s structure and main research areas.

The MSc in Biomedical Engineering & Technology is a 1.5-year full-time program (three academic semesters) hybrid program (online + on-site) requiring 90 ECTS for completion.

• Semester 1 & 2: Taught courses covering core biomedical engineering topics such as instrumentation, medical imaging, diagnostics, and technology applications.
• Semester 3: Dedicated to the diploma thesis, a full-scale research project supervised by faculty.

The curriculum includes modern areas like medical imaging, biomedical instrumentation, artificial intelligence, in-vitro/in-vivo diagnostics, bioethics, and modern biomedical systems.

What would you say is the main characteristic of your program that makes it more appealing to international students?

The program is taught in English and uses internationally relevant biomedical engineering content, making it accessible to students from around the world.

It offers a balanced combination of theoretical foundations, hands-on laboratory experience, and active research involvement, complemented by on-site visits and specialized seminars delivered by practicing biomedical engineering professionals.

We believe that this integrated approach supports graduates in developing the skills required for success in both academic and industrial environments.

Tuition fees are competitive, while the overall cost of living is significantly reduced due to the hybrid structure of the program: students are required to be on campus only during the final month of each semester, with the remainder of the program delivered online.

Could you please elaborate on the interdisciplinarity of the MSc in Biomedical Engineering & Technology?

Theprogram bridges engineering, life sciences, and healthcare. Students apply engineering principles to medical challenges, integrating knowledge from:

• Medical imaging and data analysis.
• Informatics and artificial intelligence.
• Biological systems and diagnostics.
• Electronics and instrumentation.

This interdisciplinary mix prepares students for diverse roles in medical technology, research, and health innovation.

Does the program feature any additional events, activities or conferences that could further attract and engage students?

One of the core activities of the program focuses on active interaction with the biomedical engineering labor market through on-site visits and specialized seminars organized in collaboration with biomedical engineering professionals. Students have the opportunity to visit hospitals, research centers, companies, and specialized laboratories, gaining first-hand experience of the role of the biomedical engineer in everyday professional practice.

Are there opportunities and prospects for collaborations with different universities, in Greece or abroad?

Yes — the program has cooperation links with Greek and international institutions. For example, partner universities include institutions in the UK, Portugal, Spain, USA, Romania, and Germany.

What would you say to an international student who is considering pursuing studies in biomedical engineering and technology in order to choose your program?

If you come from a different scientific or engineering background and want to transition into biomedical engineering, this MSc is an excellent choice. It is designed as a conversion program, offering a strong introduction to biomedical engineering fundamentals. Students gain essential theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience, and exposure to applied research within a European academic environment. The program builds the necessary background for careers in biomedical technology, healthcare engineering, research, or further doctoral studies.

The post International Program Stories / MSc in Biomedical Engineering & Technology appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Constantine Antonopoulos on the LL.M. in International Studies offered at the Democritus University of Thrace, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Constantine Antonopoulos is Professor of Public International Law at the Faculty of Law of the Democritus University of Thrace, where he also serves as Dean of the Faculty (2024–2027) and Director of the LL.M. Program in Public International Law. He is a member of several academic societies, including the British Institute of International and Comparative Law, the American Society of International Law, and the European Society of International Law.

Dr Antonopoulos, please provide us with an overview of the new LL.M. in International Studies, its structure and its main research areas.

The LL.M. in International Studies offered by the Law Faculty of Democritus University of Thrace (DUTh) is a one-year postgraduate program. This LL.M. is fully taught in English.

The program is designed to provide students with a wide range of knowledge on certain areas of Public International Law (PIL), such as the humanitarian law of armed conflict, international protection of human rights, refugee protection, as well as international criminal justice. During the winter and spring semester students are enrolled in three classes each, while during the third semester they are required to complete their master’s dissertation.

The courses are designed in such a way to guarantee internal cohesion; they allow students both to delve into traditional matters of PIL, as well as to explore cutting-edge instances of recent state practice. During the third semester, students undertake independent research supervised by members of our academic staff.

The program’s structure is carefully designed to balance academic research and other practical skills, which will allow our students to adjust effectively to all professional environments.

International Law is a subject inherently aimed at international students. What sets your program apart from others?

Indeed, programs in international studies are offered worldwide by esteemed universities. Although our LL.M. is recently established, it is the outcome of years of thorough analysis on students’ needs. Our LL.M.’s comparative privilege is analyzed in three key points.

First, the program is 80% taught online, while students are required to be present at the city of Komotini approximately twice per semester. This will enable them to visit our region and explore Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Komotini lies at the crossroads of Balkans and students’ visit is expected to be a lifetime experience, as they will come across our multicultural environment.

Second, the program is structured in such a way that students will receive solid doctrinal foundations and at the same time they will gain experience in practical questions. Weekly lectures are the core of the program; however, workshops, mock sessions and debates are also part of the teaching itinerary.

Finally, our faculty has a long-standing tradition in international studies. For over half a century, the Law Faculty is pioneering in international studies. Our undergraduate and postgraduate students have been taking part in international competitions, such as moot courts, and have received numerous awards. Therefore, we are confident that we offer studies of high standards, suitable for international students.

What types of students are you expecting to attract? What backgrounds and disciplines may benefit from the program, apart from legal professionals?

We expect to attract any student who is passionate about and interested in international law and justice. For this reason, the program is open not only to law graduates, but also to graduates from related disciplines, such as international relations, political science, European, or security studies, who have a wide idea over international law. Moreover, the course is open to commissioned officers of the Hellenic Armed Forces.

Our staff will provide to students of all the above backgrounds with the necessary legal tools, to interpret critical legal questions, resolve issues regarding international law. Finally, they will be able to adjust to any international environment. Thus, our LL.M. program is an excellent option also for those wishing to work in the diplomatic service, NGOs or intergovernmental organizations. 

How does this program align with DUTH’s broader vision and goals for internationalization?

During the last years, DUTh has designed and now applies a comprehensive internationalization strategy. Our university is a front runner among Greek universities regarding its international presence. Our LL.M. is a flagship initiative for DUTh, given that we admire to enhance our faculty’s global visibility, encourage networking and set the standards for further collaboration with other institutions.

What are the practical aspects of the LL.M. in International Studies and what professional prospects does it offer?

Apart from legal research, our students will have the opportunity to create all those skills necessary for their future professional careers. From this perspective, our LL.M. is also oriented towards students’ practical engagement. During lectures we emphasize on simulations, research projects and mock sessions.

Our faculty also holds the privilege to host the Krateros Ioannou Institute of Public International Law. This research institute is an active center for the promotion of international law, engaging in multiple projects and conferences every year. Thus, prospective LL.M. students will have the opportunity to get involved with the institute’s activities if they so wish.

What advice would you offer to potential students who are considering choosing the LL.M. in International Studies for their postgraduate studies?

Offering advice is an inherently difficult task, even more when addressed to LL.M. candidates. I guess my advice is simple enough: to be passionate about PIL and take a deep dive into the field. PIL is a magnificent scientific field which can offer both excitement and disappointment. We hope that new scholars will have a significant input in ameliorating and transforming PIL.

We are delighted to welcome new students to our LL.M. program the next academic year.

The post SIG Masters | LL.M. in International Studies appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Triantafyllos H. Kotopoulos, Director of the BA in Creative Writing, Arts and Humanities offered by the University of Western Macedonia, on the program, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Triantafyllos H. Kotopoulos is a Professor of Creative Writing and Modern Greek Literature. He holds a Ph.D. in Modern Greek Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Ioannina. His work focuses on the study and teaching of Creative Writing in Education, Modern Greek Literature, and the Theory of Literature. He has published nine academic books and has made significant contributions as both a researcher and writer in the literary field. He has also published six poetry collections and a short story collection. In addition to his academic and literary work, Professor Kotopoulos co-hosts the cultural television program “Digamma” on ERT3, alongside presenter and editor-in-chief Konstantinos Papaprilis-Panatsas.

Mr Kotopoulos, what inspired you to establish the Creative Writing, Arts & Humanities undergraduate program?

This program was born out of a dual ambition: to respond to a global academic need for high-quality education in creative writing and humanities—and to reimagine Greece as a literary and cultural hub for international students.

We envisioned a curriculum where students are not just trained to write well but to think critically, teach creatively, and engage ethically with literature, culture, and education. The collaboration between the Department of Early Childhood Education and the School of Economics reflects our commitment to bridging storytelling, pedagogy, and the creative industries. We want our students to become cultural producers, not just content creators.

Could you highlight some of the most innovative or unique modules in the program?

Absolutely. The program combines foundational writing instruction with interdisciplinary innovation. For example, students explore Design Thinking: Creativity for the 21st century, Creative Scenarios and Gamification, The New Nature Writing: Ecocriticism, Environmental Literature and Mindfulness, alongside more traditional workshops in fiction, poetry, and drama.

They study Comics & Graphic Novels, Multimedia and Digital Creative Writing Practice (Workshop) and even Writing for Advertising and Marketing. One of our strengths lies in preparing students to write across genres and platforms—while cultivating academic rigor and a deep awareness of literature’s evolving role in society.

How do international students fit into the program, both academically and culturally?

Our international students are not guests—they are the heart of this program. The entire curriculum is designed to serve their academic growth and cultural integration. Delivered entirely in English and using state-of-the-art distance learning tools (synchronous and asynchronous), the program ensures accessibility across borders.

Beyond academics, we foster a dynamic global classroom where students exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and explore identity, language, and narrative from diverse standpoints. Greece, with its layered cultural heritage, offers a unique setting where East meets West, myth meets modernity, and creative voices from across the world converge.

Since the program is exclusively for international students, why should they choose it over other similar programs?

Because it’s more than a degree—it’s a transformative experience. Our program stands out by combining creative writing, arts, education, and cultural studies into an interdisciplinary journey that prepares students for both artistic expression and real-world application.

We offer a modular and flexible structure, online delivery, close mentorship, and small class sizes. Students build solid portfolios in multiple genres, develop teaching competencies, and explore ethical and political aspects of writing.

Few programs in Europe offer this blend of rigorous writing instruction, digital creativity, cultural literacy, and practical pedagogical training. Plus, you get to do it all while immersed in the intellectual and aesthetic landscape of Greece.

What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in creative writing today?

Write fiercely, read voraciously, and remain radically curious. The literary world is evolving fast, and writing today means more than publishing books—it means building communities, designing narratives across media, and engaging responsibly with urgent social issues.

A career in creative writing is less about finding a linear path and more about learning how to navigate complexity with imagination. So, invest in your voice, trust revision, and always remember that storytelling is both an art and an act of presence in the world.

Do you consider artificial intelligence a threat to the future of creative writing?

Not a threat—but certainly a challenge. AI can mimic forms, patterns, and even tone. But it cannot feel meaning, live experience, or ethical ambiguity. These are the core of literature.

The real question isn’t whether AI will write “better” than humans, but whether we will still value depth, originality, and emotional truth.

Writers will need to defend not just their craft but their humanity—through stories that resist automation by embracing complexity, doubt, contradiction, and beauty.

What responsibilities do writers and educators have in managing AI’s influence?

First, to demystify it. Writers and educators must understand how AI works—and doesn’t. Second, to set ethical boundaries: AI can be a tool, but it should never replace critical thinking, empathy, or the slow patience of human creativity.

Most importantly, we have a duty to teach students how to read and write in a world shaped by algorithms: to ask better questions, to recognize bias, to preserve nuance. In this sense, literature becomes a kind of resistance—a sanctuary of ambiguity in an age of mechanical certainty.

The post International Program Stories | BA in Creative Writing, Arts and Humanities appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Study in Greece interviewed Associate Professor Dimitris Manolopoulos about the Bachelor in International Business & Technology offered by the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB), about the program, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Dr. Dimitris Manolopoulos serves as an Associate Professor of Management, at AUEBs (Department of Business Administration). He mainly teaches courses on International Business, International Management, and Business Strategy. In recognition of his performance as an academic teacher, he has been awarded several times the ‘Teaching Excellency Award’ from different postgraduate programs of AUEB. His research interests include international strategies, strategic roles and shifts of multinational subsidiaries, the management of headquarters/subsidiary relationships, and the impact of corporate resources on firm competitiveness.

Mr Manolopoulos, what inspired AUEB to launch a Bachelor program exclusively in English, focusing on International Business and Technology?

AUEB is one of the oldest and most distinguished Universities in Greece, one that –according to global educational rankings– is also highly respected worldwide. At the same time, it is a pioneering University that pushes the frontiers of education. The need to have a program for international students became evident during the past few years, when recent events emphasized the strength, a global community offers and the impact it can have in resolving global challenges in the field of business education and practice. Our aspirations as an educational institution have always revolved around creating meaningful change that brings value to society and this means developing an innovative program in International Business and Technology (IBT) in terms of curriculum as well as in terms of benefits to our students. Students coming here will have the chance to learn from leading experts in their fields, live and study in a multicultural environment, and start the next chapter in their lives. IBT aims to offer a community that students will be proud and excited to be a part of. AUEB offers an enhanced international perspective, expanded career opportunities and global networking.

How does this program differentiate itself from other similar degrees offered in Europe or globally?

IBT is designed to fill the void of a Bachelor’s level program that can combine international business and management with associated technology applications and analytics; notably, it is one among the very few BSc that combine such specializations. Let me also add that IBT is a program that is not behind corporate practice. Our professors have excellent academic backgrounds and extensive experience in the corporate world, therefore bridging the gap between theory and practice.

However, apart from the curriculum that includes the most recent and highly-demanded research areas; such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, negotiations and machine learning, it is our approach towards education itself that differentiate our program: we depart from traditional teaching methods, focusing on enhancing student engagement, critical thinking, and real-world application of knowledge. In this regard, we have small and engaging classes, we adopt a student-center focus, we prioritize active learning and real-world relevance and recognize that each student learns differently. In that sense, we provide paths to our students to learn at their own pace.

What specific skills and competencies will students develop in this program that will make them competitive in the global job market?

We want our students to follow their dream and study business in an international environment, but also to find deep meaning in their studies and use our knowledge to create innovations that can improve the corporate world and shape the future. For this reason, we have structured a program that offers theoretical knowledge on a variety of fields during the first two years of studies and the opportunity to specialize during the third and fourth year. Students will gain a broad understanding on the concepts of marketing, accounting, economics, organizational psychology, and statistics before they delve into their specialization and become highly skilled in their chosen field. They will develop their creativity and imagination, their problem-solving ability, sharpen their critical thinking, become adaptive and gain skills that are immediately applicable in the industry. A solid understanding of different business fields paired with specialized knowledge of technology applications and methodologies will give students the tools they need to become future leaders with a profound impact in tomorrow’s world.

How does the program cater to the needs and challenges faced by international students, such as cultural adaptation and language support?

Studying in Athens is a unique experience and we are here to help make it exceptional and memorable for each one of our students. An international environment always brings many challenges that we as academics need to recognize and help students navigate through them. All IBT courses are taught in English. Understanding the language and being able to express oneself can become overwhelming. The university offers general English language courses as well as terminology courses that have proven invaluable to our students. IBT’s curriculum also includes Greek language classes that help students learn the Greek language, understand the culture, and integrate smoothly in the environment. Students can also register to study other foreign languages to expand their horizons. Foreigner students have the opportunity to become members of many clubs and associations according to their interests. The clubs also host cultural events, excursions, parties and other activities providing our students the opportunity to get to know each other, make friends with peers and exchange views. IBT has also collaborated with trusted real estate agencies to provide excellent accommodation options with safe and fully equipped apartment buildings strategically located close to the University. Career guidance is also available to all students, offering tailored, impartial advice, and support through our extensive business network.

How does this program align with AUEB’s broader vision and goals for internationalization?

AUEB’s history proves its innovative character. The University has an active participation in the international academic environment by developing notable collaborations with institutes around the world. It is also one of the first Universities to have Research Laboratories, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, that contribute to the advancement of global research. The opportunity to build an international program was in fact an innovation opportunity for us, one that aligns with AUEB’s values of providing excellent education and equal chances with a zero-tolerance policy for discriminations. AUEB ranks higher each year in the Sustainable Development Goals list as we firmly believe that Universities are organizations that can and should have a long-term positive impact in the world.

What message would you like to share with students who consider pursuing this degree at AUEB? In IBT we will ask you to question your own views, to uncover new ways of thinking, and challenge your perspective. We encourage diversity of thought and freedom of speech and we want you to take a stand and think deeply on a matter. You will be challenged to set high standards for yourself and at the same time be open to influence. If you wish to surpass your own expectations for yourself when you leave the class, IBT is the place for you.

The post International Program Stories | Bachelor in International Business & Technology appeared first on Greek News Agenda.

New PhD Graduate Program!  30 Graduate positions, many of them with scholarship, for PhD studies in ChemEng at the University of Patras

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Study in Greece interviewed Professor Georgios Kyriakou about the new PhD Scholarships in the Department of Chemical Engineering of the University of Patras.

Georgios Kyriakou is Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Patras. His research focuses on understanding and exploiting surface phenomena, with a particular emphasis on surface activity, heterogeneous catalysis, bimetallic alloys, and self-assembled systems.

Please provide us an overview of the program's structure and main research areas.

The Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Patras is an internationally renowned Department, thanks to its diverse and innovative research activities in the field of Chemical Engineering and related subjects. Our faculty is dedicated to the provision of high-quality education and research. Enrolled PhD students will have the opportunity to work in a unique and stimulating academic and research environment and perform world-class research. The scope of our PhD program is to train students in all modern areas of Chemical Engineering and related disciplines and prepare them for their future career.

The main research areas include:

• Atmospheric pollution and climate change
• Transport phenomena
• Catalysis, electrochemistry, surface science
• Plasma technology and nanotechnology
• Materials science and technology
• Process control, process design, process optimization
• Biocatalysts, Biotechnology, biomolecular engineering, environment
• Theory and mathematical modeling
• Simulation of materials and complex fluids

At the beginning of their studies, enrolled PhD students are required to attend a set of courses which are delivered in English and will help them to develop a foundation of technical knowledge in Chemical Engineering. This knowledge is obtained in a way that the student develops an understanding of basic principles, while at the same time providing depth in a specific area. Students can also attend elective courses offered every second or third year in our Department, as well as courses outside the Department to help them develop additional expertise in the fundamentals of specific disciplines.

How is the program designed to meet the needs of international students compared to domestic ones?

The Department of Chemical Engineering offers a very welcoming, friendly and stimulating environment for both study and research. All courses involved in the PhD program are delivered and examined in English. Moreover, for non-Greek speaking candidates, the PhD thesis and its defense takes place in English. Life in the Department of Chemical Engineering (www.chemeng.upatras.gr) and overall in the University campus (www.upatras.gr, http://gym.upatras.gr, https://library.upatras.gr/english)  is enriched through a diversity of cultures. The Department of Chemical Engineering is committed to academic excellence, high social standards that promote inclusion and equality among its members.

How does the department foster collaboration between different research groups?

The Department of Chemical Engineering actively supports collaborations between research groups within the Department but also with other Departments at the University of Patras. In many cases, external collaborations with industry or different Universities are possible, depending on the specific needs of a research program. The collaborative spirit within our Department allows for innovative research, for sharing resources and expertise, it ensures a diverse and enriching environment and more importantly allows us to better educate our students.

Are there opportunities for research collaboration with industries in Greece or internationally?

Our graduate students profit a lot from interactions with industry in Greece and abroad through the involvement of our faculty in national and international research projects. The Department of Chemical engineering maintains strong ties with the local and international industrial and business sectors including the energy, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, water, agriculture and biotech sectors. Both industrial and fundamental research are parts of the research culture.

Are there opportunities to explore interdisciplinary topics such as bioengineering, sustainability, or computational modeling?

Interdisciplinary research is at the core of our doctoral program. Projects on bioengineering, sustainability and computational modeling are offered in our Department together with projects on other research areas of strategic importance and high societal impact including health, climate change, and biotechnology, to name a few.

What advice would you give to an international student considering this PhD program, both in terms of succeeding academically and making the most of their time at the University of Patras and in Greece?

I would strongly advise them to take the opportunity and talk to a member of the faculty and explore the research opportunities that the Department of Chemical Engineering offers. PhD studies at the University of Patras will provide you with a unique opportunity to undertake high-quality research and enhance your future career while experiencing the hospitality, the great whether and the rich cultural heritage that Greece offers.

The post International Program Stories | Chemical Engineering at the University of Patras appeared first on Greek News Agenda.