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 Assistant Professor Nikolaos Monokrousos, Director of the MSc in Bioeconomy: Biotechnology and Law offered at the International Hellenic University (ΙΗU) about the program, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Nikolaos Monokrousos is Assistant Professor in Soil Ecology at the School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Economics at ΙΗU. Before joining IHU he was a researcher at the Institute of Soil and Water Resources, Hellenic Agricultural Organization – Demeter. His research interests are focused on the study of the soil microbial community structure and functionality, the soil enzyme activity, and their role in soil organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. He has published over 45 research papers in international peer-reviewed journals and has participated in several national and international projects (PENED, THALIS, LIFE).

Please present to us in a few words what the International Hellenic University's MSc in Bioeconomy: Biotechnology and Law deals with.

The MSc in Bioeconomy: Biotechnology and Law program at the International Hellenic University aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and manage the complex interplay between biotechnology, law, and business in the context of sustainable development. The program covers a wide range of topics, including biotechnology and genetics, intellectual property law, regulatory affairs, and biobanking. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in various fields, such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental management, and public policy.

What are the program's aims and why should an international student choose it – given that we are in the application period?

The MSc in Bioeconomy: Biotechnology and Law at the International Hellenic University aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of biotechnology in the bioeconomy and the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern its application. An international student should choose this program for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a unique and comprehensive perspective on the intersection of biotechnology and law, which is increasingly important in promoting sustainable economic growth and progress. Secondly, the program is taught in English, making it accessible to students worldwide. Finally, the program is designed to provide students with practical, hands-on experience through internships and research projects, which will be invaluable in preparing them for their future careers.

Given that the program is exclusively taught in English, why should an international student choose this master's degree, in your opinion? Which will be their prospects in the future?

Our MSc program is taught exclusively in English, the language of international business and academia. Many employers value the skills and experiences that international students gain through studying in an English-language program. As a result, an international student will be well-prepared to work globally and have a competitive advantage in the job market. Studying in an English-language program can also expose international students to diverse perspectives and ideas from students and faculty worldwide. Thus, they can broaden their knowledge and understanding of different cultures and help them develop a valuable global mindset in today's interconnected world.

Have you been satisfied with the output so far?

Graduates of the MSc in Bioeconomy: Biotechnology and Law program at the International Hellenic University have been well-prepared to pursue careers in various settings in Greece and abroad. They found employment opportunities in biotech research and development, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental management. Additionally, many of our students have been engaged in research. They have produced publications and conference presentations, an excellent way to enhance their resumes and increase their visibility in the field.

How do you believe Greek Universities and Greece, in general, could attract more international students? Do you believe that the extroversion of the Universities could contribute to local development, from both an economic and social point of view?

Greek universities could attract more international students by adopting a more strategic and coordinated approach to marketing and outreach. These approaches could involve developing targeted marketing campaigns to highlight the unique strengths and advantages of Greek universities, such as their long history and tradition of scholarship, high-quality academic programs, and beautiful campus locations. Universities could also build partnerships and collaborations with institutions in other countries, which could help raise their profile and attract more international students.

The extroversion of Greek universities can contribute to the social development of the local community by promoting diversity, multiculturalism, and global citizenship. Additionally, by attracting more international students, universities can help stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs. International students bring unique perspectives and ideas to the local community and can help foster greater cultural exchange and understanding.

Tell us a few words about the International Hellenic University, its projects, its research work, and its future plans.

The IHU is committed to promoting research and innovation in various fields. Accordingly, the university has established several research centers and institutes focusing on areas such as entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and social innovation. These centers and institutes engage in research projects, host conferences, and workshops, and provide training and support for students and professionals.

In terms of future plans, the IHU is committed to expanding its academic programs and research activities and continuing to attract top students and scholars from around the world. The university is also working to build stronger partnerships and collaborations with institutions and organizations in Greece and abroad further to promote research, innovation, and sustainable development. Overall, the IHU is committed to advancing knowledge and promoting positive social and economic change in Greece and globally.

Note that the application deadline is on 30 September 2023.

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Study in Greece: Associate Professor Komninos Komnios on the LLM in Transnational and European Commercial Law, Banking Law, Arbitration/Mediation at ΙΗU; Professor Petros Gaganis presents the MSc in Environmental Science, Policy & Management (MESPOM) at the University of the Aegean