Subject and overview of the MSc programme

The Inter-Institutional MSc  Programme (IIPGP) Geriatric  and Gerontology is an innovative academic initiative of the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH). It is jointly organised and delivered in close collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the International Hellenic University (IHU).

The programme aims to advance knowledge, education and research in gerontology and geriatrics, with an emphasis on holistic, personalised care for older people.

The programme combines current scientific knowledge with clinical practice. Its subject matter includes the biology of ageing; chronic conditions and multimorbidity; geriatric syndromes; frailty and sarcopenia; Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment; polypharmacy; orthogeriatrics; prevention and rehabilitation; nutrition; and psychosocial care.

Particular emphasis is placed on preserving functional ability and autonomy; primary health care, home care and continuity of care; interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred decision-making; and the application of research and modern digital technologies.

The programme also fosters critical and research skills and provides a foundation for further academic and research development, including the possibility of progressing to doctoral studies.

Its aim is to develop professionals with up-to-date knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills who can contribute to evidence-based, person-centred care for older people, with a focus on functional ability, autonomy and quality of life.

Eligibility and admission

The programme is intended for graduates in health sciences and related fields. Eligible applicants may include graduates in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, biology, nursing, biomedical sciences, nutrition and dietetics, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, social work, sociology, psychology and other related disciplines, in accordance with the programme regulations.

Final-year students in the above departments may also apply, provided they complete their undergraduate studies before the final list of admitted students is approved.

Selection is based on the assessment of academic qualifications, research and professional experience, foreign-language proficiency, and a personal interview.

Duration

The programme lasts three academic semesters and corresponds to 90 ECTS credits.

The first two semesters comprise 10 compulsory courses in total, while the third is devoted to the postgraduate dissertation. The programme’s English-language information confirms the three-semester structure, the 90 ECTS total and the dissertation semester.

Language

The official language of instruction and the language in which the postgraduate dissertation is written are Greek. The programme’s English-language regulations likewise state that courses are taught in Greek.

Teaching Format

Teaching follows a blended-learning model, with 70% delivered remotely and 30% in person. Each semester includes at least 13 weeks of teaching, and attendance at classes and educational activities is compulsory. Digital support is also provided for teaching materials, announcements, assignments, communication and assessment.

Staff

The teaching staff include faculty members, specialists from a range of disciplines and experienced professionals with academic, research and clinical expertise. Their interdisciplinary backgrounds support a comprehensive approach to ageing and the care of older people.

A detailed list of teaching staff is available on the programme’s official website.: www.geriatricmed-auth.gr.

More Information

The programme carries 90 ECTS credits. Tuition fees total €3,000, payable in three equal instalments. Fee waivers may be granted to up to 30% of enrolled students on the basis of financial and social criteria. Scholarships of up to €1,500 per year may also be available, subject to funds and objective academic criteria.The curriculum brings together clinical knowledge, rehabilitation, mental health, nutrition, pharmacotherapy, research and new technologies.