Facts and Figures
The questions and answers below provide frequently asked information on several topics concerning the University of Cyprus. Please note that the link following the answer provides additional information.
General Facts and Figures
What is the mission and future goals of the University of Cyprus?
The main objectives of the University are twofold: the promotion of the scholarship and education through teaching and research, and the enhancement of the cultural, social and economic development of Cyprus. The most important strategic target of the University is the establishment and development of three new faculties: Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Law, and Faculty of Fine Arts. The University within the framework of globalization promotes the development of co operations with other European Universities, as well as the cultivation of affiliations with Middle East Universities. At the same time, the possibility to develop cooperation with international universities is being examined.
What is the number of the students attending the University of Cyprus?
During the academic year 2005-2006, a number of 3737 undergraduate students were attending courses within the 29 undergraduate programmes, offered by the 21 departments of the six faculties operating. During the fall semester of 2005-2006, there were 1025 postgraduate students attending the 61 postgraduate programmes (32 Master programmes and 29 PhD programmes).
How many people are employed by the University?
The University employs 637 people (academic year 2005-2006). 370 of those are academic staff and 267 are administrative staff.
How many semesters are there and when do they start and finish?
There are two semesters in each academic year. The fall semester starts at the beginning of September and ends in mid December. The spring semester starts at the end of January and finishes at the beginning of June.
What events are going on around the University?
All departments of the University organise public lectures and other events focused on issues of scholarly, scientific and wider interests. In addition, the University sponsors centrally organised lectures, cultural events, exhibitions, concerts and other activities open to the general public. Furthermore, the University in cooperation with external collaborators (municipalities) organises a series of lectures open to the public, known as “Free University”, at Aglandzia (Nicosia), Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos, London and Marioupoli (Ukraine). .
Are there any cultural activities organised by the University of Cyprus?
The University has its own Cultural Centre, housed in an old mansion in Axiothea Street, in the historic centre of Nicosia. The building serves as the home of cultural activities of the institution, such as a Cultural Festival on Mediterranean culture, theatrical plays, concerts and dance events. .
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History and Organisation
When was the University of Cyprus established?
The University of Cyprus was established in 1989 and admitted its first students in 1992. At the time when the University of Cyprus opened its doors to students, the first incoming class consisted of 486 undergraduate students. Fifteen years later the University has fully fledged undergraduate and graduate programmes in all Departments. The University currently offers 42 graduate programmes, at both the Masters and Ph.D. levels, and 29 undergraduate programmes.
What is the legal status of the University of Cyprus?
The University of Cyprus is a public corporate body, operating in accordance with the University of Cyprus Law 1989 to 2003. .
Which are the governing bodies of the University?
It is governed by the Council and the Senate. The Council is responsible for the management and control of the administrative and financial affairs of the University and its property. The Senate is the highest academic body of the University and is responsible for the academic affairs of the University, both teaching and research. The Faculties and Departments are administered by Boards; each Faculty is headed by a Dean; and each Department is headed by a Chairperson.
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Applying to the University of Cyprus
I am interested in applying to the University of Cyprus. How do I apply? Who must I contact? Where can I find information about the programmes of studies?
For information about undergraduate (B.A. and B.Sc. degrees) and postgraduate (M.A., M.Sc. and Ph.D) prospective students visit the website for the Prospective Students, and the Websites of the Offices for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies. . Prospective students may contact the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services. Tel.: (+357) 22892072/3, fax: (+357) 22892235, e-mail: fm@ucy.ac.cy
Prospective students may also contact the relevant departments.
How can I obtain a Prospectus?
Aspiring students are able to obtain an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Prospectus by contacting the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services. Tel.: (+357) 22892072/3, fax: (+357) 22892235, e-mail: fm@ucy.ac.cy , or by visiting the University.
What are the requirements for undergraduateadmission?
Admission for the majority of students is by entrance examinations set by the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Cyprus. Greeks of the Diaspora and Cypriots belonging to specific religious groups as determined by the constitutions of Cyprus, repatriated Cypriots and Cypriots who are permanent residents in other countries, can claim a limited number of positions (3% of the admitted Cypriot students) based in GCSE / GCE or other equivalent exams. Candidates who are citizens of the E.U. member states can be admitted based on GCE or other equivalent exams. A limited number of Greek citizens (10% of the total number of admissions) are admitted based on the entrance examinations set by the Ministry of Greece. Turkish Cypriots who hold a six-year high school diploma are eligible for admission upon satisfactory passing special examinations set by the University. For more information visit the Website for the Prospective Students and the Office for Undergraduate Studies.
What are the requirements for postgraduateadmission?
The University of Cyprus offers postgraduate programmes of studies for Masters and Ph.D. degrees, including courses and research activities. The basic requirements for admission include previous university proficiency in an appropriate subject, grades of the relevant degrees, letters of recommendation and the interview results (if and when the department adopts such a procedure). For more information visit the Website for the Prospective Students and the Office for Postgraduate Studies . The postgraduate applicants should submit the Application Form along with the other necessary documents to the Postgraduate Studies Coordinator of the relevant department by April 15 of each year for entry in the Fall Semester, and by October 31 for entry in the Spring Semester. The application form can be found on the website of the Office for Postgraduate Studies.
What are the fees for undergraduate studies?
Fees total 1000 Cyprus Pounds per semester for Cypriot Students and are paid by the State. Fees for foreign students total 2000 CYP per semester. Fees for students admitted from the EU countries total 1000 CYP per semester. Fees for students admitted from Greece are paid by the Republic of Cyprus. For more information visit the Website of the Office for Undergraduate Studies.
What are the fees for postgraduate studies?
The fees for postgraduate studies are as follows:
Master Degree:
Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.):
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Taught stage: 250 CYP per course
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Research stage: 500 CYP per semester
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Dissertation stage: 100 CYP per semester
For more information visit the Website of the Office for Postgraduate Studies.
Are there any scholarships or additional student funding?
The Student Life Office of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services is responsible for the promulgation of annual scholarships/awards which are especially given to students of the University. Additionally, various organisations offer scholarships directly to new-coming students on the basis of academic, financial or other criteria. Each year, the Government of Cyprus offers five scholarships, approximately 2500 CYP each per year, to Greek citizen students, on the basis of their grade in the Pan-Hellenic Exams. Furthermore, the Office provides guidance on financial problems. Students with very serious financial problems may be subsidised by the Student Welfare Fund. The Fund is supported financially by private initiatives. Apart from scholarships offered by the State, the University of Cyprus may subsidize a postgraduate student who offers to work as an assistant in covering the needs of his/her department or other departments. Monthly earnings can amount to 200 CYP or 400 CYP for a maximum period of eight months. For more information visit the Website of the Student Life Office.
Does the University offer accommodation?
All students registered at the University of Cyprus may apply for accommodation to the Housing Office of the Service of Academic Affairs and Student Welfare. The University offers accommodation in a limited number of single, self-catering study bedrooms. For more information and application forms, students should contact the Housing Office. . Alternatively, students may search for off-campus accommodation on their own. Around the University, as well as throughout the City of Nicosia, there are apartments available for rent. The rent for a two-bedroom apartment is 250-350 CYP per month, whereas the rent for a three-bedroom apartment is 350-450 CYP per month.
What are the living expenses in Nicosia?
Your own expenditure will depend on your lifestyle and the funds available to you. You should expect to spend more than normal in the first couple of weeks, as you establish yourself, but your expenses should soon settle down, allowing you to manage your monthly budget carefully. Estimated total costs of living in the city of Nicosia, where the University of Cyprus is located, are between 300 CYP and 400 CYP per month, excluding rent. Currently, 1 CYP equals to 0,57 Euro. Cyprus is expected to enter the Euro zone on January 1, 2008.
Does the University have student exchange programmes?
Since the academic year 1998/99 the University of Cyprus has participated in the SOCRATES/ERASMUS Programme which allows the exchange of students and staff with European Universities. The University also participates in the Leonardo da Vinci Programme and within the framework of Bilateral Cooperative Agreements students have the opportunity to study at collaborating universities. It also implements the rules set by the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), which allow the mutual recognition of the programmes of study involved. For more information regarding the Exchange Programmes and ECTS, please visit the Website of the International Relations and European Programmes Office.
Does the University offer accommodation for Erasmus students?
Erasmus students attending at the University of Cyprus are accommodated in single rooms in the campus dormitories or in furnished apartments near the main campus. Erasmus students should inform the Housing Office of their accommodation needs by June 30 for the Fall Semester and November 30 for the Spring Semester.
What are the languages of instruction at the University of Cyprus?
The languages of instruction are Greek and Turkish (the official languages as stipulated by the Constitution of the Republic of Cyprus). However, the language of instruction for the MBA programme is English. English is also the language of instruction for the programmes of the Department of English Studies, whereas French is the language of instruction for the programmes of French Studies.
Does the University offers any language courses on Greek as a foreign language?
The University of Cyprus operates the School of Modern Greek (SMG). The main objective of the School is to teach the Greek language to non-native speakers, nationals and foreigners, beginners as well as those who wish to perfect their knowledge of Greek. Besides language teaching, the School offers courses on Greek culture, which serve to give students a deeper understanding of Greek civilization as well as the wider contemporary Greek world. The School offers intensive and non-intensive courses at various levels, extending over 24 to 260 teaching hours.
What is the registration procedure?
Students accepted at the University of Cyprus must complete a registration form and submit it along with the required documents to the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Office by the end of June. You can download all the necessary documents from the Website of the Service.
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Studying at the University of Cyprus
What are the Requirements for undergraduate studies?
Eight semesters are normally required fro graduation (the academic years comprises of two semesters), but in special cases the duration of studies may be extended to a maximum of twelve semesters and attendance is compulsory. The programme of studies at the University of Cyprus is based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). The acquisition of a degree requires the completion of at least 240 ECTS according to the analytical academic Programmes of the various departments. Those 240 ECTS include credit units from 3-4 elective courses (not included in the student’s specialisation) which should be taken from two different faculties of the University. All undergraduate programmes require 2-3 courses in a foreign language. For more information visit the Website of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Service.
What are the requirements for a Master degree?
The requirements for a Master degree are:
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Full-time attendance for a minimum of three semesters. The period of study may be extended up to four academic years.
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Successful completion of a minimum of 90-120 ECTS units at the graduate level, in accordance with the provisions of the relevant programme of studies.
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Meeting other criteria set by the department, which may include a comprehensive examination at the end of the programme and/or the submission of a dissertation.
For more information visit the Website of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Service.
What are the requirements for a Ph.D.?
The requirements for a Ph.D. are:
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Successful completion of 240 ECTS units of which a minimum of 60 ECTS must be in courses at the graduate level, in accordance with the provisions of the relevant programme of studies. Candidates holding a Master Degree or the equivalent are partly or fully exempted from this requirement.
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Success in a comprehensive examination in the fifth semester of studies at the latest.
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Presentation of the dissertation proposal before a three-member committee.
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Submission of an original dissertation constituting an important contribution to the particular discipline.
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Defence of the dissertation before a three-member committee.
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The Ph.D. requirements must be fulfilled within the period of eight years from the day of admission.
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The Ph.D. candidate may not submit a dissertation until the completion of six semesters in the postgraduate programme.
For more information visit the Website of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Service.
How can I find information about the Programme of Courses?
Undergraduate and postgraduate students are able to access information about the Programmes of Courses, directly from the Website for Current Students, of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Office. The Programme of Courses is published every semester before the registration period and contains, besides the Programme, instructions about the Programme and Registration, as well as relevant application documents.
How can I find information about the Exams Programme?
Undergraduate and postgraduate students are able to access information about the Programmes of Courses, directly from the Website for Current Students, of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services.
How can I find information about my final grades?
Undergraduate and postgraduate students are able to obtain information regarding their grades, by visiting the Website for the Class Rosters – Grading System of the University.
Are there any Student Clubs at the University?
There are twenty-two Student Clubs at the University of Cyprus, involved in educational, cultural, artistic and entertainment activities. Approved Student Clubs are funded by the University. The “Club Evening” is a yearly event where students can learn about the activities of the various clubs, and where they can also register for the clubs of their preferences.
How can I be informed about career issues?
The Careers Centre of the University of Cyprus provides information about graduate programmes and scholarships abroad. The Centre is available to help students choose and enter a satisfactory career. The Careers Centre organises an annual “Careers Fair”, lectures, workshops and other events relevant to employment and postgraduate studies abroad. The Centre also offers the SHL Career Guidance Tools and General Abilities Profile, which consists of an integrated set of 12 ability tests, suitable for comprehensive career guidance and assessment.
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Services and Facilities
Who can use the University Library?
All members of the University of Cyprus (students, academic staff, researches and administrative staff) are supplied with a Library card, which permits them to use the Library facilities and services. The reading rooms and open-stack books are also available to external users not affiliated with the University of Cyprus. External users, who wish to obtain borrowing rights, must pay an annual membership fee as well as submit an application approved by the Library Director. For more information visit the Website of the Library.
How can I get a user and an e-mail account?
All members of the University of Cyprus (students, academic staff, researches and administrative staff) should contact the Network Centre and Advanced Applications of the Information Systems Services in order to obtain an e-mail account, direct, quick and easy access to wired network of the UCY, remote dial-up access, wireless network access and other services. For more information visit the Website of the Information System Services.
What is the University policy on students with special needs?
Students with special needs are treated as equals to all other students, whilst every effort is made to offer practical solutions to their specific problems, be it access to University facilities, or assistance on academic issues.
What is theUniversity policy regarding the issue of student health?
All Cypriot students of the University of Cyprus are granted free medical and pharmaceutical care by all public hospitals on presentation of their student identity card. All students from the state members of the European Community are granted free medical and pharmaceutical care by all public hospitals on presentation of their Eurocard. The University Health Centre, operating at the University central building, offers first aid, provide advice on health issues, and also organises prevention campaigns, blood-donation and refers students to public hospitals. For more information about the services available contact the Service of Academic Affairs and Student Welfare.
Are there any athletic activities at the University?
The University of Cyprus believes strongly in the importance of physical fitness. The Athletics Office adheres to the adage, “sound mind, sound body”, and so provides a Programme that offers a wide variety of sports and physical activities from which students can choose those best suited to their individual needs. For more information contact the Athletics Office of the Service of Academic Affairs and Student Welfare.
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Research and University Publications
What are the research activities of the University?
Original research is one of the primary activities of the academic staff of the University of Cyprus. This research may also involve undergraduate and postgraduate students, and research assistants. The University’s research programmes cover a wide range of fields that correspond to existing specializations and departments.
How are the research programmes funded?
The University’s research programmes are funded either through the University’s budget or by institutions in Cyprus (such as the Leventis Foundation, the Cyprus Research Foundation) and abroad. European Union projects (including the 7th Framework Programme, INTERREG II, COST, EUROMED, HERITAGE II, LEONARDO, MEDA) constitute the majority of externally funded projects.
Does the University cooperate with any organisations?
The University of Cyprus is a member of a number of international university organizations and networks. It also cooperates, through inter-state and inter-university agreements, with universities and research centres in Europe and internationally, for the promotion of science, scholarly research and exchange of information. The University, within the framework of its social contribution, cooperates with various institutions in Cyprus on research programmes that are specifically aimed at the needs of Cypriot industry and the economy in general.
Are there any publications published by the University of Cyprus?
The Publications Office of the University publishes an annual undergraduate and postgraduate prospectus in Greek and English. A publication listing the research interests, projects and publications of the academic staff of the University is also published every three years, as well as the University Annual Report, information leaflets and other material. A University magazine is published on a quarterly basis and a newsletter is published every two months. The faculties, departments, research units and other entities of the University produce various research and information publications. In 2002 the University of Cyprus, in a joint venture with Ellinika Grammata of Greece, established Mesogios Press, a new publishing house whose aim is to promote and enhance science, art, culture and promotion of books. Mesogios Press has published ten books. Three more books are expected to be published soon. For further information please contact Research, International and Public Relations Service.
How can I get a publication?
For all the University publications, including Mesogios Press, please contact the Publications Office of the Research, International and Public Relations Service.
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Alumni
How are the graduates of the University organised?
The Alumni Association of the University of Cyprus is an autonomous organization in which all the University Graduates are automatically registered. The Association functions in close cooperation with the University in order to establish a strong and independent relationship in favour of the Institution and its graduates. The Association supports and develops a series of activities serving the University graduates and students, as well as the wider Cypriot society.
I need a certified copy of my degree and a transcription. How can I get
The Information Office of the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services is responsible for the issuing of transcriptions and certificates, as well as for providing information and documentation, and publishing announcements on topics related to academic affairs, student life, rules and services offered to the students.
How can I track down an old friend of mine from the University of Cyprus?
People who studied at the University of Cyprus are able to obtain information about old friends who also studied at the University by using the search engine directly from the Alumni Website. In order to track down an ex student is necessary to complete some personal data concerning the person you are looking for.
Are there any special privileges for the graduates of the University of
The University graduates exclusively enjoy a series of privileges concerning offers and discounts for hotels, restaurants and other services, as well special prizes at several shops. For more information visit the Website for the Alumni Office.
As an employer, how can I verify that an applicant is a holder of a degree
Contact the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare Services.
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Visiting the University
Where is the University of Cyprus located?
The University of Cyprus is located at Nicosia, the capital of the island. Nicosia is the island’s largest and leading city. It is the administrative, commercial, cultural, educational and religious centre of the country, and is also geographically at the centre of the island. For more information about Nicosia and maps of the City, visit the website of Nicosia Municipality. (www.nicosia.org.cy)
Where can I find University maps?
University maps are available at the website of the University. One is also able to obtain University maps by visiting the University.
Where can I find tourist information about Cyprus?
For tourist information and detailed travel maps of Cyprus, visit the website of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (www.visitcyprus.org.cy). Once in Cyprus, you can obtain information, maps and other printed material from the many offices of the Organisation all over the island.
Where can I find information about hotels in Cyprus?
For an online hotel directory visit the website www.cyprushotels.net
How is the climate in Cyprus?
Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine the year round. Long dry summers and mild winders are separated by short autumn and spring seasons. Summer is a time of high temperatures and winters are rather mild, with some rain all over the island and snow on Troodos Mountains. Lightweight cottons and liners during summer months, and warm clothing and rainwear during winter should be considered as required clothing.
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Contacting the University
How can I contact the University?
The contact details of the University of Cyprus are: University House “Anastasios G. Leventis”. P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus. Tel.: (+357) 22894000. E-mail: admin@ucy.ac.cy
I am thinking of applying to the University. Who shall I contact?
Prospective students may contact the Academic Affairs and Student Welfare fm@ucy.ac.cy
Prospective students may also contact the relevant departments. . For undergraduate studies, prospective students may also contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office. Tel.: (+357) 22892020, (+357) 22892681. For postgraduate studies, prospective students may contact the Postgraduate Admissions Office. Tel.: (+357) 22894060, (+357) 22894034/3.
How can I contact the Housing Office?
People may contact the Housing Office of the Service of Academic Affairs and Student Welfare at these numbers: Tel.: (+357) 22894027, (+357) 22893001, (+357) 22894037/8.
How can I contact the Student Union?
People may contact the Students Union Office at the following numbers: Tel.: (+357) 22892020, (+357) 22892681. Fax: (+357) 22750291.
Where can I find contact information of all the faculties and departments?
At the upper right of the website of the Faculties and Departments there is a Link CONTACT US which refers to the corresponding page of the faculty or department.
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