Program Structure

The academic year runs from 1 September to 31 August of the following year. Each year is divided into two semesters, with all courses offered as semester-long modules comprising:

• Lectures
• On-site field trips and hands-on tutorials

To complete the Program, students must successfully attend and pass a total of 32 courses over eight semesters (1–8). Fall semesters are odd-numbered (1, 3, 5, 7), and spring semesters are even-numbered (2, 4, 6, 8).

Courses are classified as either:

1. mandatory, or
2. mandatory electives

All mandatory courses must be successfully completed. The mandatory elective requirement is fulfilled by selecting and passing three out of five designated courses.

Many courses also incorporate tutorial sessions, field trips to museums and archaeological sites, as well as on-site instruction and participation in archaeological excavations under the supervision of the teaching staff.

Information on discontinued or forthcoming course offerings is updated as needed at the end of each spring semester, effective for the next academic year. Updates may concern:

• The titles of mandatory and mandatory elective courses and the names of instructors
• Weekly contact hours per course
• ECTS credits per course
• Other relevant curriculum adjustments

Each course – whether mandatory or mandatory elective – consists of three contact hours per week over a 13-week semester, and carries an assigned number of ECTS credits.

Academic Calendar

Fall Semester

Cyprus Independence Day (October 1)

Greece Ohi Day (October 28)

Greek Polytechnic Day (November 17)

Christmas Break (December 23 – January 7)

Spring Semester

Ash Monday/ Beginning of Lent

Greek Independence Day (March 25)

Cyprus Independence Day (April 1)

Holy Week – Easter Week

Labor Day (May 1)

Enrollment

The personal information provided by students at the time of enrollment is securely stored in the NKUA Student Information System and processed in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679. Access to this data is strictly limited to authorised personnel and is not shared with third parties without the student’s consent, except where disclosure is required by law.

All first-year students are required to visit the Registrar’s Office in person, presenting their non-Greek passport or national ID. They are then issued their digital university credentials, which serve as their official authenticated NKUA student identity. These credentials provide access to all university online services, including the Program’s e-classes and the student portal (https://my-uni.uoa.gr), where students can:

• register for courses
• view grades
• access tuition fee information
• complete program-related surveys
• and more.

Academic ID card

Using their digital credentials, students must also apply for an official academic ID card issued by the Ministry of Education. This card grants access to university and state services, including discounted transportation fares and reduced admission to museums and other cultural institutions.

GDPR- General Data Protection Regulation

Since 25 May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 — commonly known as GDPR — has been in effect, enhancing the protection framework for individuals with regard to the processing of personal data within the European Union. The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) fully complies with the GDPR in all of its operations and implements the necessary technical and organizational measures to ensure the secure and lawful processing of personal information.

Applicants to this Program are required to consent to the use of their personal data for the purposes of application processing, in accordance with the University's official Personal Data Protection Policy (https://en.uoa.gr/about_us/personal_data_protection_policy/). No application will be accepted without this consent.

Course Registration

Online course registration takes place during the first two weeks of each semester. Students typically register for five (5) courses in semesters 1 to 4 and for three (3) courses in semesters 5 to 8, totaling 30 ECTS credits per semester. The expected workload for a full-time student corresponds to 22–35 contact hours per week, including tutorials and field trips.

Students who have previously failed a course may register for up to two (2) additional courses per semester beyond their standard course load. However, in all cases, the total number of registered courses may not exceed six (6) per semester.

Students are not permitted to sit for examinations or receive credit for any course for which they are not officially registered. Registration for courses offered in odd-numbered semesters takes place in the fall, while registration for courses in even-numbered semesters takes place in the spring.

Academic Advisor

Each academic year, an Academic Advisor is appointed for the newly admitted cohort of students. The same Advisor continues to follow and support this cohort throughout the full duration of their studies. Academic Advisors are members of the Program’s teaching staff and serve as the primary point of contact for academic support. They assist students with course selection, research opportunities, curriculum-related questions, academic regulations, and other aspects of their studies. The aim of this advisory role is to enrich the students’ academic experience and help them maintain high academic standards.

Accessibility Support for Students with Disabilities

The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) is committed to ensuring equal access to academic studies for students with disabilities and special educational needs. To this end, the University has established the Accessibility Unit, which offers a range of services aimed at facilitating full participation in academic life.

The Accessibility Unit provides:

• Environmental modifications to improve physical accessibility across campus.
• Computer-based assistive technologies tailored to individual needs.
• Specialized access services, including transportation and exam accommodations.
• Conversion of educational materials into accessible formats.
• Psychological counseling and support services.
• Volunteer peer support Programs.

Students eligible for these services include those with certified sensory, motor, or learning disabilities; pervasive developmental disorders; severe illnesses; or significant psychosocial challenges. Eligibility requires a diagnosis certificate issued by an official state entity or healthcare provider.

Students are encouraged to contact the Accessibility Unit to discuss their specific needs and to access the support available.

For more information, please visit https://access.uoa.gr/en/home-2/ or email access@uoa.gr.

Student Representative

To promote open communication and active student involvement in academic matters, the BA Program in the Archaeology, History, and Literature of Ancient Greece appoints one Student Representative per academic year (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year).

Role and Responsibilities

Each Student Representative:

• Acts as a liaison between students of their academic year and the Program administration.
• Conveys concerns, proposals, and feedback from their peers regarding courses, academic policies, or student life.
• Participates (upon invitation) in discussions of the Program Steering Committee on issues affecting the student body or academic experience.
• Assists in coordinating student input during Program evaluations and surveys conducted for Quality Assurance purposes.
• Encourages the engagement of fellow students in academic and cultural activities within the Program.

These positions are non-remunerated and advisory in nature but hold significant value in fostering a collaborative academic environment and ensuring that students’ perspectives are heard and considered.

Class attendance – Grading

At the beginning of each semester, instructors provide a detailed syllabus, announce their office hours, and communicate the grading policy and course requirements. The topics covered in each course must align with the officially approved curriculum for the given academic year.

To successfully complete a course, students must meet all stated requirements, which may include midterm examinations, short essays, other assignments, and a final examination.

Course Grading

The final grade for each course is determined by the instructor, based on the student’s performance across all assessment components—such as midterms, written assignments, and the final examination. The grading policy and method of calculation are clearly communicated at the start of the semester and included in the syllabus.

Final grades are expressed on a numeric scale from 1.0 to 10.0, accurate to one decimal place. A passing grade is defined as 5.0 or higher. Instructors must upload final grades to students’ academic records within 30 days of the final examination.

At the beginning of each semester, all instructors are required to provide students with a written document clearly outlining the methods of assessment for the course, the weight assigned to each activity (such as participation, assignments, midterm tests, and final examinations), as well as the deadlines for the submission of coursework and any other relevant academic requirements. This ensures full transparency and allows students to plan their academic workload effectively.

Furthermore, it is ensured that all students will receive timely and constructive feedback from their instructors on every form of assessment — including written assignments, tests, and examinations. Feedback must be provided within a specific time frame, not exceeding four (4) weeks from the date of submission or examination. This feedback policy is designed to support students’ continuous academic improvement and enhance the overall quality of the learning process.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined as the use of ideas, concepts, words, images, or any intellectual material without proper acknowledgment of the original source, presented as one’s own work. Properly cited quoting and paraphrasing are not considered plagiarism.

Any form of plagiarism constitutes a serious academic offense and violates the University’s Code of Academic Integrity. NKUA employs plagiarism detection software (Turnitin) to identify potential cases. Students notified of alleged plagiarism are encouraged to consult their Academic Advisor for guidance.

Instructors are responsible for assessing the severity of each case. Sanctions may include, depending on the gravity of the offense and whether it is a first or r

Examination Periods

Each academic year includes three examination periods:

• January: for all courses of the fall semester
• June: for all courses of the spring semester
• September (re-sit period): for students who either failed or were absent for officially documented reasons during the previous examination periods of the same academic year

The exact dates of the examination periods are published in the Academic Calendar, while the detailed exam schedule is announced on the Program’s website a few weeks in advance.

Students who fail to pass one or more courses after the September re-sit period must register for and re-take those courses in the following academic year. Failure in more than three (3) courses in a single semester, after completing the September examination period, requires the student to repeat the entire semester (fall or spring) in the following academic year. However, students who fail fall semester courses are still permitted to enrol in spring semester courses.

Types of Exams

Instructors determine the type of examination for each course, which may include one or more of the following formats:

• Written in-person exams
• Oral examinations
• Multiple-choice tests
• Problem- or case-based assessments
• Open-book or take-home exams
• Essay-type exams

Examinations are generally conducted in person. However, in exceptional circumstances (such as a public health emergency) the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs may authorise a partial or full transition to remote teaching and assessment. In such cases, students are required to comply with the applicable provisions and be prepared to participate in distance-learning assessments.

Academic Misconduct during Examinations

Any form of cheating during examinations – including, but not limited to, the use of unauthorised materials, collaboration with others, impersonation, or the use of electronic devices – is strictly prohibited and constitutes academic misconduct.

If a student is found to have engaged in dishonest behavior during an examination, sanctions may be imposed depending on the severity of the offence and whether it is a repeat violation. Possible sanctions include:

• Immediate exclusion from the examination room
• Automatic failure in the specific examination
• Failure in the entire course
• Referral to the Program’s Academic Committee, which may impose additional disciplinary measures, including temporary suspension from the Program

All incidents of academic dishonesty are formally documented and reviewed by the Program Administration. Students have the right to submit a written explanation, which will be taken into consideration before a final decision is made.

Re-evaluation of Grades (Re-grading Requests)

Students have the right to request a re-evaluation of their final grade for a course under specific conditions, in line with international academic best practices.

A written request must be submitted to the Program Secretariat within ten (10) calendar days from the date the grade is published in the student’s academic record. The request must include a clear and well-substantiated rationale, identifying specific concerns regarding the assessment of the student’s work.

Re-evaluation is permitted for up to 10% of the total number of courses in the Program, i.e., a maximum of three (3) courses over the entire duration of studies. Each course may only be re-evaluated once. Requests submitted after the deadline or lacking sufficient justification will not be considered.

The instructor re-examines the student’s submitted work, in collaboration with a second examiner where appropriate, and submits a reasoned report to the Secretariat. The re-evaluated grade becomes the official final grade, replacing the original, even if it is lower. The original grade is retained in a confidential internal log for quality assurance purposes but does not appear on the student’s transcript.

Re-evaluation applies only to final written examinations and major term assignments. Midterm assessments and participation grades are not subject to re-evaluation.

The decision of the instructor, in agreement with the Program Administration, is final and not subject to further appeal. If the re-evaluated grade is lower than the original, the lower grade stands, and no further revision or reversal is permitted.

The specific period for submitting re-evaluation requests is determined by the Program Secretariat and announced at the beginning of each semester.

Duration of Studies

The maximum period of study in the Program is the prescribed period of four academic years plus two years.

Credit Transfer

At any time, Program students may be provided with a Transcript of Records for all courses they have attended, for any lawful use.

Degree Requirements

The BA is conferred upon successful completion of all the following requirements:

1. Enrollment Residence Requirement: Regular course registration and attendance by presence for at least 8 semesters.
2. Mandatory Course Requirement: Successful completion (final grade ≥ 5) of all required courses, for a total of 240 credit units (ECTS).
3. Mandatory Elective Course Requirement: Successful completion (final grade ≥ 5) of three courses.

Grade Point Average

The overall GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated as the weighted average of the grades of all courses successfully completed, using as weights the corresponding number of ECTS, and it is expressed in numbers from five (5) to (10), rounded to two (2) decimal points

The numeric 5 -10 grading scale corresponds to the Greek Higher Education’s qualitative classification as follows:

5.00 – 6.49 / Good

6.50 – 8.49 / Very Good

8.50 – 10.00 / Excellent

Weighted average calculation example for 4 courses

WA= (9X8+7X8+8X8+8X8+10X6) ÷ (8+8+8+6)= (72+56+64+60) ÷30 = 252÷30 =8.40

Assessment Rubrics

By adopting a shared set of criteria and performance descriptors, the Program safeguards equity for students, supports constructive and comparable marking practices across different teaching staff, and strengthens the evidential basis for internal quality assurance and external review. Standard assessment rubrics are used across the Program for the evaluation of written assignments and written examinations. Their purpose is to ensure that assessment is transparent, consistent, and explicitly aligned with the intended learning outcomes of each module.

The rubrics contained in ANNEX I of this document are compulsory for all instructors and apply to all relevant assessment components (including written final examinations, written assignments, and any other written test or interim progress assessment where applicable). Instructors must (a) communicate the relevant rubric to students in advance (together with the learning outcomes assessed), and (b) use the same rubric structure when marking, so that the final grade is demonstrably anchored in the published criteria and descriptors.

The rubrics are designed to (i) make expectations and standards explicit, (ii) support consistent grading across different cohorts and markers, and (iii) facilitate meaningful feedback that connects student performance to the learning outcomes assessed.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee is 6,000 euros per academic year. Students may choose to pay:

• the full amount (6,000 euros) in a single instalment, due by late June, or
• in two instalments of 3,150 euros each, due by late June and late January, respectively.

The Program’s Steering Committee may extend tuition payment deadlines in exceptional cases.

Students who exceed the standard four-year duration of studies are required to pay 800 euros per course, with a maximum fee of 2,000 euros per semester, for any additional courses attended beyond the fourth year.

Refunds

Tuition fees are non-refundable in the event of termination of studies or non-attendance. The NKUA reserves the right to notify the Greek Consular authorities accordingly.

A refund will be granted solely in the event that a student visa application is formally rejected, and only upon submission of an official document issued by the relevant authority confirming the rejection. In cases of force majeure, the Program Steering Committee may authorise a partial refund of fees paid prior to the student’s arrival in Greece; in such cases, all bank transfer charges are borne by the applicant.

Scholarships and Grants

The Program’s Steering Committee may award scholarships and grants, based on merit, to selected students in the form of lump sums or tuition fee concessions. These awards may be general or targeted, and may include travel grants or scholarships enabling recipients to participate in archaeological excavations, research projects, academic conferences, or workshops, either in Greece or abroad.

Residency Rules

EU and EEA citizens do not require a residence permit to study in Greece. They must present a valid passport or national ID, and, within 90 days of arrival, register at the local Department of Aliens bureau (at police stations with a foreigners department) to obtain a Certificate of Registration (Residence Certificate). This certificate is issued free of charge, has unlimited validity, and complies with EU Directive 2004/38/EC.

Non-EU/EEA nationals must maintain valid legal residence status throughout their studies. Those already holding permanent residency status in Greece that permits study (e.g., through investment, employment, family reunification, refugee status) may be admitted directly.

All other non-EU/EEA students must enter Greece on a national long-stay visa (Visa type D, “Studies” or “Scholarship”). Within 90 days of arrival, they are required to apply for a Student Residence Permit through the official online platform of the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum: https://applications.migration.gov.gr. The application must be submitted to the Aliens and Immigration Department of the Decentralised Administration responsible for their area of residence.

The residence permit is typically valid for one year, but students may request a longer validity period by submitting a certificate from the University confirming the full duration of their studies. Applications for permit renewal must be submitted at least two months before expiry.

The Program’s student advisors will assist students in acquiring and maintaining their legal residence status throughout their studies. For further information and individual guidance, students are encouraged to contact the International Students Support Unit (ISSU) of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens: https://issu.uoa.gr.

Health issues and living conditions

EU/EEA students should produce their European Health Insurance Card, which gives them access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during their stay in Greece.

Non-EU/EEA students, who do not have access to the national healthcare system in Greece (e.g. through employment or family status), are responsible for arranging private health insurance to cover the entire duration of their studies. Their insurance policy must meet the minimum requirements for obtaining a Residence Permit. Insurance premiums are paid directly by the students to the insurance provider.

While the Program has identified several reliable insurance companies in Greece that offer student insurance plans at preferential rates, it bears no responsibility for the terms, coverage, or purchase of individual insurance policies.

All living expenses — including accommodation, meals, and personal services — are covered solely by the students.

Appeals

The Program’s administration is committed to friendly settlement of any dispute. If students have a suggestion or a complaint about any aspect, they should raise it with the person concerned in the first instance. If they are not satisfied with the outcome, they can pursue the matter through informal and formal procedures. Any suggestions and complaints are treated seriously and with fairness, consistently and without undue delay. Students have access to complaints and grievance procedures established and can talk to the Program administration team or complete a form on our platform.

Student Ombudsman

Students of the Program may seek the assistance of the NKUA’s Student Ombudsman who has the following responsibilities:

• reviewing students’ applications regarding problems they face with the academic and administrative services and seeking solutions to such problems
• facilitating student’s contact with the Institution and administrative services
• reviewing reporting complaints of the students for violation of law provisions and regulations of the university legislation and ethics
• informing students about their rights and obligations as members of the University Community

For more information, students are encouraged to visit the NKUA Student Ombudsman’s official webpage: https://en.uoa.gr/about_us/services_units/student_ombudsman/

Program evaluation

Program feedback forms are distributed throughout the academic year. The forms are completely anonymous. The aim of this feedback process is to give students the opportunity to give their views on the quality of the Program and their satisfaction overall. It is important that students complete this survey as it helps to identify what is going well and what may be addressed in order for the student experience to be improved further.

Suspension or Termination of Studies

Students may face extenuating circumstances—such as health issues, pregnancy, or employment obligations—that are beyond their control and may interfere with their academic progress. Such circumstances may justify a temporary suspension of studies for a period ranging from one (1) to four (4) semesters (i.e., up to two academic years).

Extenuating circumstances must be documented through appropriate supporting evidence (e.g., medical certificates), issued by qualified professionals who are independent of the student. Applications for suspension, along with all supporting documents, must be submitted to the Program Secretariat. The approved suspension period is counted against the maximum allowable duration of studies in the Program.

In cases where the circumstances are permanent or long-term, or if the student voluntarily chooses not to continue their studies, a formal request for termination of studies may be submitted. Termination leads to official withdrawal from the Program. Tuition fees already paid are non-refundable, unless otherwise decided by the Program’s Steering Committee under exceptional conditions.

If a student fails to resume their studies at the end of the approved suspension period and does not respond to a reminder email sent by the Secretariat within fifteen (15) calendar days, their student status will be automatically terminated due to non-resumption of studies.

Gender Equality Office

In accordance with Article 33 of Law 4589/2019 and the decisions of the University Senate dated 3 December 2019 and 23 January 2020, a Gender Equality Office (GEO) was established at NKUA. The GEO aims to promote gender equality policies and eliminate gender stereotypes, inequality, sexism, and gender-based violence.

The Committee on Gender Equality, composed of nine members, serves as an advisory body to the Senate and the administrations of all University Departments. Its role is to promote equality at all levels of operation and across all aspects of academic life.

The Gender Equality Office:

1. Prepares action plans to promote and ensure substantive equality in the educational, research, and administrative functions of the University, and submits an annual report to the Senate.
   b. Recommends measures to relevant bodies to advance gender equality and combat sexism.
   c. Provides information and training to members of the academic community on gender and equality issues.

d. Offers mediation services in cases of complaints regarding discrimination or harassment.
e. Encourages the development of postgraduate Programs, seminars, and lectures in the field of gender studies.

f. Supports the production of studies and research on issues within its area of competence.
g. Assists victims of discrimination in reporting incidents. Victim support procedures are defined in the University's internal regulations.

Code of ethical conduct and good practice at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

NKUA is an educational institution founded on indisputable academic values and is committed to promoting them through its academic Programs, which adhere to international standards for human rights. These values are also grounded in the legal and regulatory framework of higher education, and in our responsibilities toward both students and staff.

Discrimination of any kind—based on gender, age, religion, appearance, cultural practices, or physical condition—has no place at NKUA. Equally, no member of the University community may violate the rights of another. Students who believe they have experienced discrimination are encouraged to report the matter to the Program Administration. The issue will be handled, in collaboration with the Program’s Steering Committee, with discretion and care.

Mutual respect among members of the University community is a fundamental principle, essential to the advancement of education and research. All members of the University—faculty, academic researchers, technical and administrative staff, students, and affiliated personnel—are expected to treat each other with dignity and to contribute constructively to the University's mission.

Faculty and Specialized Teaching & Laboratory Staff

Faculty and teaching staff, in addition to the responsibilities arising from their status as public servants, must uphold the highest standards of academic integrity. They are expected to promote truth and scientific knowledge through teaching and research.

They must carry out their duties impartially and exercise sound judgment in their interactions with students and junior colleagues, ensuring fairness and meritocracy. Their evaluations—as instructors, examiners, researchers, and committee members—must be well-substantiated, methodical, and transparent.

Faculty members must refrain from any action that could result in personal, especially financial, benefit or that could exploit their position vis-à-vis current or former students.

Students

Student status is acquired upon enrollment in an undergraduate or postgraduate Program (first or second cycle). Students are expected to engage in the academic process—learning, research, and evaluation—in accordance with the University’s principles, curriculum, and internal regulations.

As members of the academic community, students are bound by the same values and responsibilities as all other members. They must conduct themselves in a manner that supports the pursuit of education and knowledge. Truth, academic freedom, mutual respect, and integrity form the foundation of academic life. Any conduct undermining these values compromises the University's mission and academic freedom.

Administrative Staff

Administrative personnel play a vital role in promoting, supporting, and serving the public interest. They are expected to perform their duties with diligence, impartiality, and professionalism, free from personal bias or external influence.

In doing so, they contribute significantly to the advancement of education and research. The principles outlined in section 1 apply accordingly, adapted to the specific responsibilities of administrative roles, as defined by law and internal University regulations.

Diploma Supplement

All students receive a diploma supplement upon successful completion of the Program. This document includes details of the modules completed, grades awarded, and the corresponding ECTS credits. It also outlines the nature, level, context, and content of the studies undertaken.

The diploma supplement is designed to help external stakeholders—such as employers or other higher education institutions—better understand the graduate’s academic background, beyond the transcript alone.

^{ANNEX I}

^{Sample Rubric for Written Assignment Assessment}

^{Course: …………………………………}
 

^{Type of assessment: Written assignment}
 

^{Weighting in overall grade: ……… %}
 

^{Learning outcomes assessed: LO1, LO2, LO3}

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 ^{Sample Rubric for Course Examination}

^{Course: …………………………………
Type of assessment: Written final examination
Weighting: ……… % of the final grade
Learning outcomes assessed: LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4}

^{Assessment Criteria Table (Rubric)}