ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION

Administrative Bodies

The administrative bodies of NTUA are the Rectorate, the Administrative Board and the Senate. The composition of the bodies, the election and assignment procedure and the competencies of these bodies are defined by law.

Rector

Chatjigeorgiou K. Ioannis, Professor, School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering

Vice Rectors

Varvarigos Emmanouil, Professor, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Vice Rector for Research, Innovation and Extroversion
Lagaros Nikolaos , Professor, School of Civil Engineering, Vice Rector of Finance, Infrastructure and Development
Psarrakos Panagiotis, Professor, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Vice Rector for Administrative and Student Affairs
Zisis Athanasios, Professor, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Vice Rector of Academic Affairs and Lifelong Education

Administrative Board

The Administrative Board, in accordance with the provisions of article 8 of Law no. 4957/2022, consists of eleven (11) members, of which six (6) members are internal and are elected in accordance with the provisions of article 9, and five (5) members are external and are designated in accordance with the provisions of article 10. The term of office of the serving members of the Administrative Board is four years.

The competencies of the Administrative Board are conferred in accordance with the provisions of article 14 of Law no. 4957/2022, and in accordance with the University Internal Regulation, as long as these have not been assigned by law to other administrative bodies.

The NTUA Administrative Board has been constituted since 23.10.2023, as follows:

1. Chatjigeorgiou K. Ioannis, Professor, School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, President
2. Kaliampakos Dimitrios, Professor, School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, internal member
3. Koziris G. Nectarios, Professor, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, internal member
4. Sapountzakis I. Evangelos, Professor, School of Civil Engineering, internal member
5. Karonis I. Dimitrios, Professor, School of Chemical Engineering, internal member
6. Kourkoulis K. Stavros, Professor, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, internal member
7. Georgiou C. Georgios, Professor, University of Cyprus, external member
8. Theodoridis A. Sergios, Professor Emeritus, NKUA, external member
9. Mavropoulos P. Antonios, Chemical Engineer, Advisor and Researcher, external member
10. Papanikolas P. Panayiotis, CEO and President at Olympia Odos S.A., external member
11. Syrianos E. Georgios, Civil Engineer, CEO at AKTOR Concessions S.A., external member

Senate

The Senate is the highest collective body for elaborating and overseeing university policy and main actions. It consists of the Rector, the four Vice Rectors, the Schools’ Deans and the representatives of staff and students.

The main competencies of the Senate are:

• The supervision of the way NTUA operates, ensuring that it does so within the law and in accordance with the University Internal Regulation;
• The setting of the general educational and research policy of NTUA, the planning and strategy for its future development, and the regular review of its activities;
• initiatives towards the strengthening of the university’s ties with the society and the productive sector, for its contribution to regional, national and international development, the vocational education and lifelong learning for engineers, as well as the collaboration with Greek and foreign educational and training institutions and with scientific and social organisations.

Senate Committees

NTUA has established Senate Committees with the mission to advise and support the Senate in the preparation and coordination of the NTUA activities. These are the leading advisory bodies of the University, their term of office is four years and they are crewed with representatives from all NTUA Schools of the Foundation and the Administration. Additionally, the Senate Committees submit an annual report to the Senate, are chaired by members of the Rectorate, and are assigned of a Vice-President as coordinator. Special Senate Committees also operate at NTUA to cover special management, study and advisory needs to the Senate.

Rector’s Office

The Rectorate is supported by the Rector’s Office (Head: L. Nikolaidou, Tel: +30-210-772-4382) and the Vice-Rectors Secretariats.

Directorate of Public and International Relations

• Department of Public Relations: Griva. Tel: +30-210-772-2017, Fax: 210-772-2028;
• Department of International Relations and EU: Lampropoulou, Tel: +30-210-772-1433
• Department of Student Exchange (IAESTE): Vlassi, Tel: +30-210-772-1945
• Press Office and Media: Sotiris Katsenos, Tel: +30-210-772-4260

Legal Advisor Office

The Legal Advisor Office represents NTUA interests before all courts and other authorities. The Head of the Legal Advisor Office is a member of the State Legal Council and is authorised to guide and submit legal advices to all NTUA services. 

Legal Advisor: Mr Periklis Aggelou, tel.: +30-210-772-1918.

Quality Assurance Unit

Fully aware of the historical role of the National Technical University of Athens as the first Technological University of the country, and of its long-term contribution to the development of the country through its high-level graduates, NTUA has established and implements a Quality Assurance System, annually assessed and updated, with the aim of: a) maintaining its tradition since its foundation in providing high-quality educational work, b) strengthening its position as a centre of excellence in a highly competitive environment at national and international level, c) producing high-level graduates, with knowledge in modern science and ability to respond immediately to current demands and d) the assurance and continuous improvement of the quality of the research project.

The implementation of the quality policy at NTUA, as reflected in the internal quality assurance system, constitutes a strategic decision and commitment of the university to develop a quality and excellence culture in all its fields of action, taking into account the general operational framework of HEIs, the internal decisions of the NTUA’s bodies, the international practices (especially of the European Higher Education Area) and the directions of the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education.

With the implementation of the Quality Policy at NTUA, continuous improvement is expected in all areas of the university's activity, such as: a) in educational and research work, 2) in the quality and speed of services and administrative procedures, and 3) in the personnel’s working conditions and students’ living conditions.

The main objectives of the NTUA quality policy are:

(a)   the continuous reformation and improvement of study programmes in relation to national needs and international trends,

(b)   the improvement of key performance indicators related to undergraduate and postgraduate studies,

(c)   improving research performance and linking research with education,

(d)   the improvement of the organization of services and the resolution of administrative issues,

(e)   the improvement of NTUA Career Office activities,

(f)    encouraging and strengthening the Schools’ outreach,

(g)   the implementation of measures to improve the environment with environmentally friendly and sustainable technology.

For the effective implementation of the Internal Quality Assurance System, all members of the academic community recognize that a) there is both individual and collective responsibility to achieve the goal of excellence in all areas of NTUA activities, b) each member (academic staff, administrative staff, students), unit (academic, administrative) and body (administration, quality assurance unit, internal assessment teams) has a distinct role and responsibility for implementing the actions that correspond to it and are described in the internal quality assurance system and c) the implementation of the university’s internal quality assurance system is a continuous improvement process which requires the cooperation and collective participation of all parties involved.

Quality Assurance Unit secretariat: M. Bania, tel +30-210-772-1801

Internal Control Unit

Head of Internal Control Unit: A. Makrinou, tel +30-210-772-1899

ESDDA certification: 11.10.741.319

Committee for Gender Equality

The NTUA Committee for Gender Equality was established in 2020 in accordance with the provisions of article 33 of Law no. 4589/2019. It is a nine-member unpaid committee which acts as an advisory body to the Senate and the Schools’ administration to promote equality at all operating levels and in all processes of academic life.

General Directorates

General Directorate of Administrative Support and Studies

The General Directorate of Administrative Support and Studies aims to plan the activities, improve and coordinate the Directorates of Administrative Services, Financial Services, IT, Studies and Welfare in order to carry out their work more methodically and efficiently.

• Directorate of Administrative Services. It handles all matters related to the entire human resources of the university; in particular with regard to the administrative staff, it recommends its proper capacity utilization, advancement and development so that it is able to respond efficiently to increasing demands. The NTUA Directorate of Administrative Services consists of the following departments: Department of Administrative Staff; Department of Teaching Staff; Department of Technical and Laboratory Staff, Register and Files Department, Superintendence Department, Facilities Protection Department; Vehicle Office.
• Directorate of Financial Services. The NTUA Directorate of Financial Services consists of the following departments: Budget Department; Expenditure Department; Accounting Department; Cash Department; Property Management Department; Finance Department; Payroll Department.
• IT Directorate. The NTUA IT Directorate consists of the following departments: Organization and Methods Department; Systems Analysis and Design Department; Department of Management Information Systems Development and Maintenance.
• Directorate of Studies. The NTUA Directorate of Studies consists of the following departments: Department of Undergraduate Studies; Department of Postgraduate Studies and Research; School’s Secretariats; Department of Publications and Printing.
• Directorate of Student Affairs . The NTUA Directorate of Student Affairs consists of the following departments: Department of Student Welfare; Department of Physical Education; Music Department; Medical Department.
• Office for Protection and Prevention of Safety and Health at Work. The Office includes a Safety Technician and an Occupational Physician.

General Directorate of Technical Services

The responsibility of the General Directorate of Technical Services is the coordination of the construction and the maintenance of NTUA facilities within the territorial areas of the university, by the Directorate of Technical Studies and the Directorate of Facilities Maintenance.

• Directorate of Technical Services: The NTUA Directorate of Technical Services consists of the Technical Studies Department and the Project Execution Department.
• Directorate of Facilities Maintenance: The NTUA Directorate of Facilities Maintenance consists of the Maintenance Department and the Greenery Department.

HISTORY OF THE NTUA

Foundation

Founded in 1837, almost along with the modern Greek state, NTUA is the oldest Technical University in Greece. Initially established by a royal decree "on architectural education" it was a technical school operating on Sundays and holidays which offered instruction to those desiring to master in architecture. Though, at a remote location it soon attracted many students. Its popularity lead to the extension of courses and by spring 1840 to the operation of a regular day school along with the Sundays counterpart. It was then moved to its own building on Piraeus street. The joint efforts of students and instructors contributed to a continuous growth and to revising standards.

Early Reforms

The school quickly introduced reforms to make it better able to respond to the domestic needs of reconstruction and industrial development. Studies reached the three years, enriched with new disciplines, and the administration was taken over by the Committee for the Encouragement of National Industry. 

Installation (1871) to the Historical "Polytechnion"

The urgent needs for infrastructure to support the ambitious plans of the school led to the 1871 transfer to new buildings on the Patission Street Complex. Their construction was first supported by Nikolaos Stournaris. In Greek,  NTUA  is  called "Ethnicon  M etsovion  Polytechnion".  It  was  named "Metsovion" to honor the donors and benefactors Nikolaos Stournaris, Eleni Tositsa, Michail Tositsas and Georgios Averof, all from Metsovo, a small town in the region of Epirus.

Towards Today's Structure and Organisation

After the introduction of a four-year degree course for civil and mechanical engineering, in 1887, the NTUA was able to announce that it "educates high level engineers for the public service, industry and construction" as competent as "graduates from the well–known engineering schools of Western Europe". The final major reform of the organisation and administration of NTUA took place in 1917. The "Ethnicon M etsovion Politechnion" acquired five high level engineering schools: Civil, M echanical & Electrical, Architecture, Chemical and Surveying. Many subsequent changes since 1917, have led to its current form: a prestigious University of Science and Technology, with eight Engineering Schools and a ninth School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences.
 

"Polytechnion", November '73: A Symbol of Democracy

The recent struggles against the military dictatorship of 1967-74 escalated with the student gathering at the NTUA Patission Campus on the 14th of February, 1973, followed by an unprecedented brutal attack by the police inside the campus and the arrest of several students. This was followed by demonstrations, the occupation of the Law School of the University of Athens on 23rd February, and
again on 20th March. Each of these demonstrations was met by force. The protest culminated in the greatest blow against the Junta, the Polytechnion (NTUA) Uprising in November, 1973. 

Events began on Wednesday, 14th November, and ended on November 17th 1973 with the unprovoked intervention of army tanks and the attack by the army and police against those besieged inside the NTUA Campus and the demonstrating supporters outside in Patission Str. These few days saw the growth of an impressive popular uprising centered at NTUA. The people of Greece and the
country's youth all rallied in support of the students, united around the ideals: Freedom, Democracy, Independence, Education and Social Progress. The toll of the Polytechnion uprising was tragic. Several demonstrators were killed; many more were arrested by the militar y police and were tortured for months in militaryprisons. 

The Junta fell a few months later and Polytechnion is being commemorated every year on November the 17th by the students, high school pupils, the NTUA Senate, the democratic authorities, political parties, the Greek Parliament and the people of Greece. 

The Polytechnion Uprising is an outstanding event in recent Greek history. NTUA honored the victims of the Uprising with a monument within its courtyard, opposite the gate which the tanks of the dictatorship demolished that night. The monument was placed alongside the column commemorating the National Resistance. The two memorials emphasize the continued struggle of the Greek people and the country's youth over the years.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Zografou Campus and Patission Complex

From the 1960's NTUA is continuously expanding at the Zografou Campus, where eight of the nine Schools are located. The School of Architecture remains at Patission complex. High-specification infrastructure projects completed at NTUA include buildings of 300000 m2 with fully equipped lecture theatres, laboratories and libraries, surrounded by a pleasant natural environment of 100 hectares. To each one of our 13000 students, there correspond 28 m2 of buildings, 10 m2 of lecture theatres and 100 m2 of outdoor green space.  

NTUA is pioneer in Greece and the East Mediterranean area in the cutting-edge field of telematic networks. Advanced capabilities of information society supported by a fully equipped and computerised Central Library are available to the NTUA members via intranet and data network services. To serve the rapid expansion of research needs, NTUA uses a strong Computer Centre, equipped with advanced technology computer systems and of nine special PC labs for all students in each School.

Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park

Lavrion Technological and Cultural Park (LTCP), is a body of scientific research, education, business and culture. Founded in place of the old French Mining Company of Lavrion (Compagnie Francaise des Mines du Laurium) in 1992, as a result of the initiative undertaken from the National Technical University of Athens.

LTCP aims at linking scientific and technological research conducted in Athens with the needs and interests of the business world to the realization of cultural events related to the promotion of the history and culture of the wider area of Lavreotiki and the emergence of the history of activities in the past had developed in the maintenance of premises. The LTCP area is a unique monument of industrial architecture and archeology and placed him in a series of housing facilities for business and research excelence.

The services provided by LTCP as well as its renovated facilities, continue to support research, education and technology. Today, LTCP is essentially the only Technology Park in Attica, which specializes in areas - keys of modern applied technology, such as information technology, electronics technology, telecommunications, robotics, technology laser, environmental technology, energy, shipbuilding , Marine technology, etc.

Metsovion Interdisciplinary Research Center

The Metsovion Interdisciplinary Research Center (M.I.R.C.) of the National Technical University of Athens (N.T.U.A.) for the Protection and Development of Mountainous Environment and Local European Cultures was founded in 1993 by decision of the National Technical University of Athens Senate, following the proposal of the then Rector Professor N. Markatos. It was set up in 1998, following the Proposal of N.T.U.A. Rector Professor Th. Xanthopoulos, by decision of the 22nd N.T.U.A. Senate on December 23, 1998. 

According to the decision of the N.T.U.A. Senate, the aim of M.I.R.C. is to substantially support N.T.U.A. in the management of its real estate property in Metsovon, which consists of a building plot in Aghia Triada, the infrastructure which is associated with or results from the above property, as well as third party donations, bequests and allowances, with the objective of substantially connecting N.T.U.A. with the homeland of its Founders and promoting the effective contribution of N.T.U.A. to Metsovon Province's Integrated Development. In this direction, M.I.R.C. is closely cooperating with the local educational, research and cultural organizations of Epirus and especially with the Municipality of Metsovon, the University of Ioannina, the Embellishing Association of Metsovon, the Epirus Egnatia Foundation etc.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES

NTUA plans and organises its educational programme under the following principles:

• Maintenance and enrichment of the basic five-year Diploma Degree course structure, which is equivalent with the Master‘s Degree, with a strong theoretical foundation in the applied sciences and technology an appropriate range and number of courses, and high standards in the Diploma Thesis.
• Strengthening studies, aiming at: 

i. cohesion and academic depth
ii. responding to current and future development needs
iii. methodical adaptation to the educational process of active learning
iv. linking studies with practical experience (professional or research-oriented)

• Opening new horizons in scientific and technological education

Requirements and Standards

Under the general principles which govern studies at NTUA, the university strives to ensure that the following demands and conditions are met:

• 25 to 26 teaching hours in total per week and 6 to 7 courses a semester.
• Classes are normally held between the hours of 08:45 and 15:30 from Monday to Friday.
• Class size is kept to a maximum of 80 students per lecturer.
• Teaching includes theoryand practice in a coherent presentation.
• Academic tutorials and interim tests are assessed, to strengthen the step by step learning.
• Information technology and PC labs form an integral part of the curriculum
• Regular detailed audit of textbooks by a special School Committee.
• Distribution of textbooks, on time.
• A fixed timetable for courses, examination periods and announcement of results.

In the winter examination period (January-February), only the courses of the fall semester are examined. In the summer examination period (June-July), only the courses of the spring semester are examined. In September, students may retake exams in any courses which they have either failed or have not previously been examined on or in which they wish to improve their grade (provided the courses have been declared at registration). Students are assessed in each course by the course instructor, who must set written and/or oral examinations as he/she feels appropriate, based on intermediary educational procedures (e.g. reports, term papers, exercises, etc.)

Design Projects

Design projects take place in all NTUA Schools during the semester courses or between the end of the final examinations in the spring semester and the start of courses in the fall semester. In the Schools of Civil Engineering, Rural and Surveying Engineering, and Mining and Metallurgical Engineering major projects are also in the curriculum.

Practical Training / Internship

The Internship's purpose is to connect education with the professional environment that the students will meet in the labor market when they complete their studies. NTUA was the first among the country's technology institutes which includes its students' Internship as an integral part of the educational process. The school of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering has incorporated the Internship into its curriculum since approximately 1953, while the School of Rural and Surveying Engineering around 1960. It is a mandatory lesson in the curriculum of the Schools of Architecture, Chemical Engineering and of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering. It is an elective lesson in the curriculum of the Schools of Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rural and Surveying Engineering, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering and the School of Applied mathematical and Physical Sciences. The duration of the Internship is set at 1 or 2 months after the institutionalization of each school. It takes place every year from April to October. More than 1000 students of the NTUA every year are trained in their cognitive subjects through the Internship. NTUA Internship

Diploma Thesis

The final Diploma Thesis has the level, content, and duration of the Master Thesis of equivalent Anglo-Saxon Universities. It gives the students the opportunity to integrate their knowledge and to present their ability to carry out research on a topic of their specialty which was given during the five-year period of study. The principal thesis work is carried out exclusively during the 10th semester, when the student does not have any coursework. In the beginning of the 9th semester, the student applies to the School Office and selects the course within which the thesis is to be carried out under the supervision of a member of the academic staff who taught it or a course nearest the subject matter. The text of the thesis must include, apart from the significant contribution and
detailed development of the subject matter, the following:

• Synopsis (150-200 words) and Extended Abstract (300-500 words) in Greek and another foreign language (preferably English)
• High quality presentation
• Table of Contents and detailed Bibliography

After completion of the Diploma Thesis, the student deposits the appropriate text and undergoes an oral examination, by a three-member examining committee. This committee is proposed by the General Assembly of the Department and confirmed by the General Assembly of the School or by the Executive Board of the School, if it has been so authorized. This can only be done after the student has successfully passed all the courses. The final copy of the thesis remains to the School Office, while 2 other copies must be submitted, one to the Departmental Library and the other to the Central Library. These copies are available for borrowing by anyone who is interested. The final mark of the Diploma Thesis is calculated as the average of the marks of the 3 examiners, rounded to the closest integer or half unit of an integer.

Marking Schemes and Diploma

Marking in all courses is made on a scale of 0-10, without using fraction of an integer, and with 5 as a passing mark. Thesis marking is an exception since it is allowed to use half marks (0.5), and the passing mark is 5.5. The overall mark for the Diploma is calculated by summing the following:

• the arithmetic average of all course marks taken by the student during his/her studies, with a weighted coefficient of four fifths (4/5), and
• the Diploma Thesis mark, with a weighted average of one fifth (1/5).

The total quality of the student is assessed according to the following scale:

• Excellent 9 to 10
• Very Good 7 to 8.99
• Good 5.5 to 6.99
• Satisfactory 5 to 5.49
• Fail below 5

POSTGRADUATE STUDIES

NTUA holds a prominent place in the international academic community as a distinguished state university which promotes scienceand technology. This place is also due to the postgraduate degrees which it awards. They are of a high standard and enjoy international prestige.The main aims of the NTUA’s postgraduate studies are to maintain and strengthen quality, to enhance international recognition of the degrees granted and to pursue cohesion between education, research advancement and scientific depth.

The postgraduate degrees currently offered by the NTUA include:

• Postgraduate studies organized in the framework of each School, which lead to the award of a"Doctoral Degree". Students follow a programme of postgraduate courses and/or research, leading to an original and significant contribution in sciencesand technology.
• Interdisciplinary Postgraduate studies, organized in the frame of several Schools of NTUA or jointly with other universities,which lead to the award of a"Postgraduate Degree of Specialisation", equivalent by law to a Master’s degree. Students acquire this degree after one to two academic years, during which they follow specific coursesdivided into semestersor four - month terms and prepare a thesis. Students wishing to continue their research work towardsa Doctoral Degreein related subjects may be allowed to do so in one of the collaborating Schools.

Entry Requirements

Candidate postgraduate students should submit the following supporting documents:

• Their application on a special form provided by the postgraduate School Office.
• Official copies of their diplomas or degrees, along with their detailed transcripts or any other evidence of graduation expected by the beginning of the postgraduate studies at the latest. If required, they should also provide a certificate of equivalence granted by DOATAP (the Greek Accreditation Centre for foreign university degrees).
• A comprehensive curriculum vitae in which they should include information regarding their studies, as well as their research or professional activities.
• A brief statement of intent in which the candidate should develop his/her particular scientific interest as well as the reasons for which he/she wishes to participate in the Programme.
• Proof of knowledge of at least one foreign language (for foreign students, knowledge of the Greek language is required).
• Two letters of recommendation. 

There is no tuition fee for the course. Scholarships are available and are awarded on the basis of merit and proven financial need.
A student counsellor assists students in the selection of appropriate courses provided by the Programme. Each student has an advisor who super vises the student's thesis.

Interdisciplinary Postgraduate Programmes

In the frame of the interdisciplinar y approach, four teen postgraduate programmes are offered since 1998, leading to a Postgraduate Degree of Specialization and cover ing a wide range of research and professional potentials operating currently at NTUA. In all programmes, the admission is very competitive. The minimum duration of studies and thesis presentation is one full year and the maximum is two years. The student must complete his/her thesis within this maximum period of two (2) years. Repeating an examination is generally not allowed. 
The administration and management of each programme (syllabus, student selection, teaching assignments etc.) is performed by its Academic Board, which consists of nine Faculty members from the co- operating Schools. Teaching is mainly performed by Faculty members, as well as by academic and industry experts, invited for lectures on specialized subjects. 

Participation of NTUA in other University Programmes

The NTUA also participates through its Schools in the following inter-university postgraduate degree courses coordinated by other universities:

• Bioengineering in the School of Medicine at the University of Patras. Participating NTUA School: Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering 
• Philosophy and History of Science and Technology in the School of Methodology, History and Theory of Science at the University of Athens. Participating NTUA School: Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences 
• Logic, Algorithms and Computation in the School of Mathematics at the University of Athens. Participating NTUA School: Electrical and Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences 
• Digital Art in the Athens School of Fine Arts. Participating NTUA School: Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Linguistics Technology (Technoglossy) in the Department of Linguistics in the School of Greek Philology at the University of Athens. Participating NTUA School: Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Chemistry Education  and new  Educational Technologies in the School of Chemistry at the University of Athens. Participating NTUA School: Chemical Engineering
• Industrial Management (with two divisions): - Logistics (product supply and distribution) - Energy management and environmental protection in the Department of Industrial Management at the University of Piraeus. Participating NTUA School: Chemical Engineering

Schools' Postgraduate Programmes

Each one of the nine NTUA Schools is offering postgraduate studies, either within the School, sometimes involving graduate courses and in every case leading to the preparation of a Doctoral Thesis, or as coordinator of inter - disciplinary postgraduate programmes, leading to the above mentioned Postgraduate Degree of Specialisation.
Usually, the graduate courses and specializations correspond either to the Depar tments of the Schools or to interdisciplinary scientific areas. For example, in the frame of each School, the School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences offers a Postgraduate Programme with four specializations corresponding to the Departments of Philosophy and History of Science and Technology, Mathematics, Mechanics and Physics.
In the same frame, high level graduate courses are offered by the School of Electrical and Computer Sciences and by the School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering.

Doctoral Theses

The procedure for the preparation of a Doctoral Thesis guarantees substantial in-depth study and promotion of science and technology. The Doctoral Theses are designed by the cells of research, the Departments, and coordinated by the Schools.
The total length for the preparation and the award of an NTUA doctoral degree is set by law at no less than 3 years and no more than 6 years, including the time spent in postgraduate courses. The candidate defends the doctoral thesis before an examination committee consisting of seven members of the faculty.  The number of places for doctoral candidates and the subjects of doctoral theses are proposed by the Departments and decided by the School.
 

STUDYING AT THE NTUA

Student Status

Greek high school graduates enter NTUA Schools after succeeding to the national "numerous clasus" entrance examinations. According to the exam records, NTUA students are in the range of the top 1 ≈ 5% of the candidates for University education. There are no limits for the duration of studies. Students may apply to their School to suspend their studies. If approved by the University board, an applicant will cease to be a student during the period of suspension, and all the associated rights of the student will be withdrawn. Studies may be resumed with a new application.

Structure of Studies

The educational curriculum at NTUA is divided into independent academic semesters, each one equivalent to 30 credit units. The courses taught in the different Schools last one semester. Studies in all Schools last ten (five fall and five spring) semesters. The tenth semester is devoted to the Diploma Thesis. Each semester covers in average 30 credit units and lasts 18 weeks; 13 weeks are devoted exclusively to teaching, 2 for the Christmas or Easter break, and the last 3 of each semester for final examinations in that semester’s courses. In the fall semester, the week after the final exams is given over to vacations or special educational purposes.

Registration

Within two weeks of the start of each semester courses, students are required to fill in an application form at their School Office, including the courses they wish to attend.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes the titles and content of the mandatory and elective courses, the weekly hours of teaching (including every form of teaching) and the sequence or interdependence of courses. It is published every year in Greek and English. Handbooks are available from the School Offices. The General Assembly of the School is responsible for drawing up the curriculum, which comes under review everyApril. The School President sets up a programme committee consisting of members of the General Assembly of the School, lasting for one year, which submits a report to the General Assembly based on the suggestions of the departments. The final curriculum authorization is given by the Senate.

Academic Tutors

Immediately following the publication of the list of registered students, the School Board appoints a School member as a tutor for each student.

Evaluation Questionnaires

NTUA evaluates the teaching process with questionnaires in order to:

• pinpoint any weaknesses in the education offered and continuously improve its quality
• introduce new modes of teaching which will strengthen the active participation of students (broadening and improving laboratory work, using multimedia, evaluation through electronic questionnaires, access to electronic libraries and material on academic staff personal web pages)
• improve communication between academic staff and students.

The questionnaires are distributed to students between the 7th and 10th week of each semester by the School Offices, during courses. They are optional and anonymous, and are offering vital information for achieving the above aims.

Quality Assurance

Starting in 1999, the National Technical University of Athens conducts periodically an evaluation of its educational and research services and facilities. It is carried out by an internal committee, consisting of academic staff representing all Faculties, graduate and postgraduate students and administrative staff, in collaboration with a Committee of External Evaluators from abroad. The purpose of this quality control is to collect, process and present all the available information on administration, education, research, infrastructure, facilities and services available, in order to identify potential problem areas, and improve the record of NTUA as one of the leading Technological Universities.

KNOWLEDGE WITHOUT FRONTIERS

Student Exchange Programmes

Student exchange programmes allow students to study in other European countries forper iods ranging from three months to one academic year. During their stay abroad, students must attend courses equivalent to those of their normal semester and pass examinations which count towards their degree. There is also the oppor tunity for a Master’s Thesis to be written abroad with the agreement of the supervising professor of the NTUA School. Students are offered the possibility of subsidised professional employment in a foreign country during the summer vacation. 

The Erasmus programme first began in 1987, and became the leader in studies in technical universities inside and outside the EU with which the NTUA has the appropriate agreement. Periods abroad range from three months to one academic year, with guaranteed recognition of studies.
To cover the additional expense associated with cost of living differences abroad, Erasmus scholarships granted by the European Union are supplemented by the NTUA. Apart from the linguistic and cultural benefits offered by the programme, students have the opportunity to gain international experience
from other countries.
Students who take part in Erasmus have usually completed their first year of studies, and the procedure for granting scholarships begins at least six months before travelling abroad. Erasmus NTUA Office, NTUA Erasmus Student Network (ESN)

NTUA is involved in the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE). Everyyear NTUA and seven other Greek universities send approximately 250 students for practical training in technical companies or University Laboratories of member countries of IAESTE, and accept a similar number of foreign students in Greece.
The student work placements are funded by the companies themselves. Every year, they inform the authorities about places they have available and what conditions the candidates must fulfil.
Applications are submitted in October and November of the previous year and the selection of successful candidates is made in Februaryand March on the basis of objective criteria such as school, year of graduation, knowledge of the required foreign language and degree of success in the studies of the previous academic year. The student exchanges usually take place during vacations (July- September). IAESTE NTUA Office

The aim of the Association des États Généraux des Étudiants de l’Europe (AEGEE) is to promote European awareness and cooperation among the members of the European student community. In this framework, AEGEE organises conferences and events of European and scientific interest, and promotes exchanges between large numbers of students. It is an organisation that operates at a European and regional level and includes activities such as summer universities, business management competitions, Community law competitions, seminars and conferences.

BEST (Board of European Students of Technology) is a non profit, non political students organization “for students by students”. It is a network of 64 Highest Educational Institutes of technological course of 25 European countries, aiming to promote the idea of Europe among European students. The basic aims of this organization are the creation of strong ties between European students, the understanding of different cultures, information about high technology issues, contact with the labour market, with the companies, and the development of students’ abilities which will help them to work on international level.

To succeed through these goals BEST organizes, every year, a variety of academic activities, including educational seminars of technological interest, cultural exchanges, meetings with companies, sport meetings, excursions etc. BEST Athens is between the most powerful Local Teams of the Organization,while at the same time it has been established as one of the most important student organizations of European orientation.

Participation in most of BEST activities is free of charge and applications can be made over the Internet. English is the language used in all seminars. BEST also offers M inerva, an internet database which aims to create contact between new European Engineer students and companies through out the world. Through M iner va students have the possibility to learn and take advantage of offers for seasonal, part-time or full-time employment, master
thesis, scholarships, seminars, conventions, competitions and many other activities. BEST NTUA Office

Especially related to the School of Civil Engineers is the International Association of Civil Engineering Students (IACES). Its purpose is to offer a collaboration network between civil engineers student enabling organized actions. IACES organizes member meetings in various European cities, where take place lectures, discussions and social activities.

The EESTEC Local Committee of Athens (Electrical Engineering STudents' European assoCiation Local Committee Athens) is a voluntary, non-governmental organization of Electrical and Computer Engineering students, which operates in 28 countries and 53 polytechnic schools throughout Europe. EESTEC LC Athens is a member of the European organization EESTEC International, founded in 1984 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. EESTEC Athens

LABORATORIES AND RESEARCH

NTUA’s equal and interrelated priorities are education and scientific research. The research programmes that are undertaken at the Institution are subject to established academic standards and are funded by NTUA’s own resources, by the General Secretariat for Research and Technology (GSRT) and other public bodies, by the European Union or by private sector companies in Greece and other countries.
In exchange for the services and facilities provided (which include premises, equipment and infrastructure), NTUA withholds approximately 15% of the research programmes budget and By decision of the Senate, these amounts, which are collected annually, are used to support education, research that is not funded by other resources as well as other activities. The latter include scholarships awarded to postgraduate students. 
Research is conducted in 130 officially established laboratories under the supervision of the academic staff. The total number of postgraduate students is 4.950. Of these, 1.950 are enrolled in an Interdisciplinary Postgraduate Studies Programme (I.P.S.P.) that leads to an M.Eng. while 3.000 are Ph.D. students. 

Senate Commitee on Basic Reaserch (SCBR)

The aim of SCBR is to promote and support basic research in the fields of science and technology that are pursued at NTUA. SCBR Website

Research Commitee

It supports the distinguished high level activities of NTUA is scientific research. The cost of research programmes is covered in four ways: at NTUA’s own expense; with funding from the General Secretariat of Research and Technology and other state agencies; with funding from the European Commission; or, finally, paid for by the private sector in Greece or abroad,
under certain academic conditions.

As a partial compensation for the ser vices and facilities it provides to research programmes, including premises, equipment and other infrastructure, NTUA retains 15% of the budget funding. The sums retained come to a considerable amount each year and, by decision of the Senate, are allocated for education, research which does not receive funding from any other source, and other activities, including scholarships for postgraduate students.

The Research Committee Secretariat consists of five departments:
Department A’ is concerned with control of research programmes and fulfils secretarial duties for the Research Committee.
Department B’ is concerned with the management of research programmes.
Department C’ is concerned with auditing the Special Account.
Department D’ is concerned with research information and support.
Department E’ is concerned with monitoring the progress of the NTUA projects funded by the Operational Programmes of the Community Support Framework.

Special Account for Research Grants (SARG)

One of the main priorities of NTUA and the Management Committee of the Special Account for Research is the support and reinvestment of resources in education and research. SARG’s Available Funds, which are reinvested in education and research, are employed for awarding doctoral scholarships as well as supporting basic research, auxiliary teaching and other educational activities. SARG Website

Institute of Communications and Computer Systems (ICCS)

The Institute of Communications and Computer Systems (ICCS) of the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) was founded in 1992. It was founded with the ‘charta’ to support the performance of top-quality research, development activities and the provision of scientific service to private and public bodies. Essentially the mission of ICCS was to support the deployment, the realization and the growth of the research priorities of ECE mainly through seeking, pursuing and acquiring research funding via the competitive calls for research proposals that the European Commission had instigated. In turn its purpose has been to build a research personnel base alongside ECE’s faculty so as to conduct state-of-the-art research and at the same time improve the research laboratory equipment base and infrastructures of the School. ICCS Website

SERVICES TO STUDENTS

Student ID Card

All students, both undergraduates and postgraduates, receive a student ID card, which proves that they have been students for no longer than the normal period required to obtain a degree plus two years. It is valid for one academic year and entitles the holder to a discount of between 25% and 50% on tickets for buses, trains, ships, museums and art exhibitions. It is issued to students by the School Secretariats following registration at the beginning of the academic year, and requires a photograph. Academic ID card acquisition service

Student Eating Card

It allows students, whose income is low, to have lunch and dinner at NTUA’s restaurants (at both the Zografou and Patision Campuses). For further queries about the card and how to apply, please contact the Student Support Office (Thomaidion Centre for Publications). The rest of the students can have lunch or dinner at the restaurants paying only a small amount of money. For further information, you can contact Ms K. Giakoumaki (210-772-2192) and Ms. G. Sotiropoulou (210-772-2192).  Student Eating Card application form

Health Care

All students are entitled to free healthcare. It can be obtained with a student health book issued at the Zografou Health Centre on presentation of an identity card, student ID card, photographs and a sworn statement as per Law 1599/86. Healthcare includes immediate medical assistance, pharmaceutical care, dental care, treatment by a doctor, hospital care for inpatients and outpatients, health centre examinations and special treatment, and care for chronic diseases.
Pharmaceutical care involves the granting of free medicine to students from designated pharmacies.
Medical and dental care provides the same care as for civil servants. This care can also be provided by designated dentists at no charge to students. A list of designated doctors and pharmacies is provided by the M edical Service. Home treatment is available only in serious circumstances or emergencies.
Hospital care is provided to every patient who is a student at the University after a medical diagnosis and the approval of the M edical Service. Tests are conducted at public clinics. Because NTUA has a microbiology laboratory which belongs to the Medical Service, it is able to serve students directly.
Prescriptions and referrals for health centre examinations from private doctors not designated by the Student Club are recognised if they are approved by the NTUA Medical Service. Provision of healthcare applies for the years of study, defined as the normal length of undergraduate or postgraduate studies in a School, plus 2 years. In the final year of studies healthcare is extended beyond the end of the academic year until 31st December of the same year for any students who have not yet received their degrees. More Information: 210-772-1566 Mrs. M. Katrani

Center for Psychological and Counselling Support

The Center for Psychological and Counselling Support operates within the National Technical University of Athens, offering psychological support and psychosocial counselling services to the student population, as well as to all members of the university community.
The purpose of the Center’s operation is to promote mental health through early intervention, crisis intervention, combating social stigma, creating an inclusive academic environment, and providing specialized types of psychosocial counselling services. It also aims to promote sensitization of the University’s members to mental health issues.
The Center is staffed by professionals in the fields of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Social Work.
It operates daily, on the Ground Floor of the new Mechanical  and Naval  Engineering building, NTUA Zografou Campus.
Contact Information:
Phone: +30 210-772.2590 (Psychologist: Angeliki Kouri)
Email:

Special Counselor

At the National Technical University of Athens, a group of experts-counselors provide their services to students who face difficulties in relation to their studies, stress and anxiety, difficulty in dealing with student life or living in the city, or other problems such as those related to social relations (conflicts with the family, or friends), feelings of isolation and mood change, health problems, and other personal issues. For further information, contact the Career Office and specifically Ms Eleni Paspaliari and Ms S. Nika.

Zografou Halls of Residence

At the Zografou campus, there are two Halls of residence: the old building and the new buildings at Zografou. The old 12-storey building has been open since 1975 (Iroon Polytechneiou Street) and is mainly used by students of other Universities (only 1% of NTUA students live there). The new Halls of Residence (15 buildings at Kokkinopoulou Street, 6A)), which are monitored by The Youth & Lifelong Learning Foundation, have been open since 2005.

Student housing Allowance

It is provided to students who study and live in a place other than their main place of residency and to those whose (family or individual) income is lower than a certain point. To apply and for further information contact Student Support Office (Thomaidion Centre for Publications) at 210-772-1936 (Ms. E. Taka) and 210-772-2154 (I. Sotiropoulou).

Awards and Scholarchips

Awards and scholarships are available to students of NTUA who fulfil the conditions laid down by donators, more than 30 indivitual donators, or by the Senate (regionality, performance in panhellenic exams, semester exams or specific courses).
In addition, scholarships and awards are granted by different institutions which award sums directly to the beneficiary: The Eugenides Foundation, the Horafas Foundation, the State Scholarships Foundation, the Technical Chamber of Greece. In addition, different Ministries (Education, Finance, Foreign Affairs etc.) provide information on scholarships and awards which are granted to students of the higher education area according to competition results in several fields. All this information is available to students in the NTUA School Offices.
The Student Care Department has issued an information booklet on awards and scholarships which refers in detail to how students become eligible to apply for them. More information: Student Affairs division, Mrs  V. Balabani, Τηλ: 210-772-1951, 210-772-1330.

Employment and Innovation Offices

NTUA houses offices that serves students and new graduates of the university in the first stages of their academic and professional careers. All students and graduates of NTUA have access to a specially equipped area with a computer network where they can get information in printed and electronic form on: Postgraduate studies in Greece and abroad, Scholarships, Continuing or supplementary education, Careers advice, Jobs (summer, part-time or full-time)

The Employement and Career offices of the NTUA are the following:

• Practical Training Office
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship Unit

Career Office

The Career Office has been set up to offer to students and recent graduates of the NTUA, support and systematic information on matters concerning their studies and on issues related to the planning of their professional career. Through the office's website you can learn about topics that might be of interest, such as:

• Postgraduate studies in Greece and abroad
• Scholarships in Greece and abroad
• Job opportunities
• Seminars and lectures
• Consulting issues
• Issues of entrepreneurship
• Broader issues covering student and/or professional interest
• Studies concerning the labor market of engineers

Language Center

Four foreign languages, English, French, German and Italian, are taught in NTUA at least one of them is obligatory. The full course lasts four semesters and the marks for the course counts towards the final grade of the degree.
Students who hold the "First certificate in English" or a higher certificate for English, and equivalent qualifications for the other languages, are exempted from the first three semesters of the course. They are not exempt from the fourth semester, which focuses on scientific terminology.
Students who do not possess such qualifications are required to attend the course in full. More information: Language Center Website

Educational Excursions

Educational excursions are organized annually. Their aim is to make students aware of technological developments or classical science and art, with the general aim to offer them an insitu education. These are organised by the Departments of each School, and are based on what has been taught in various courses. Educational excursions abroad are usually organised for final-year students and last for up to three weeks. They take place on the basis of a specific educational programme. Part of the travel expenses for educational excursions both in Greece and abroad, and a significant portion of other expenses are usually paid by NTUA, other state bodies, and the Technical Chamber of Greece.

Alumni Association

There is also an Alumni Association at the Zografou Campus to serve the 40000 graduates of the University, whose job is to promote closer relations  between graduates and NTUA, inform graduates about the activities of the NTUA, mutual support of graduates and the university in areas where the conditions require it.

SERVICES TO ALL MEMBERS

Libraries

The NTUA Library and Information Center dates back to 1837, while the official operation of the library began in 1914 under state law. It is considered to be one of the most prestigious Academic Libraries in Greece. Today the Library offers many electronic services, 240.000 books and 1500 scientific journals. All the members of NTUA, as well as the public, may use the Library services and material. The public has no right to borrow books.

Since April 2000 the Library is housed at Zografou Campus (Central Library), in a new building with a total area of 7500m2. The library includes a reading room with 500 seats, six (6) group study rooms which are available to groups of at least 3 persons for 3 hours per group, 2 computer workstations and 2 photocopiers which operate with magnetic cards. The same building houses the Historical Library of NTUA as a special collection, which is the result of a systematic effort to re-establish the original holdings of the University Library. Approximately 60,000 books and journals dating from the 17th century to 1950 have recently been classified. The main bulk of the collection consists of old and rare books, pamphlets, maps, prints and encyclopedias.

Patission Complex, an annex of the Central Library of NTUA, consists of 3 functional units close connected, which serve Architecture, Urban Planning and Fine Arts. These units are: 1. Library-Reading room in the Averof Building (Rotonda) 2. Library-Reading room in the Bouboulinas Building 3. “Library of K.A.Doxiadis” οn the 5th floor of the Bouboulinas Building. Τhe special collection, of the “Library of K.A.Doxiadis” includes ≈ 24,000 items, of an important international research and training unit.

NTUA Press

Supported by Thomaidis donation, NTUA constucted in 2000, a modern building of 2150 m2 for all its press activities, as publishing scientific and cultural books, educational material, journals, etc.

• The NTUA Press publishes books, in the areas of science and technology taught at NTUA, as well as books of general cultural interest. Some are intended chiefly for students, while others for the general public. The NTUA Press uses a modern flatbed electronic press.
• The NTUA Print Unit is equipped with modern facilities to produce all the lecture notes and textbooks published by the University and distributed to students free of charge. The following activities are associated with publishing at the NTUA, and are located in the “Thomaidion Publishing Building”:
  • The NTUA Press Office
  • The NTUA Press Workshop
  • The Print Unit
  • The permanent book display
  • Distribution of lecture notes and textbooks to students
  • Storage of printed books and notes

Restaurants

The restaurant at the Zografou Campus is open all day and every day except holidays (Christmas, Easter and summer). It has reduced prices and serves university students and staff. Free meals are provided to students on relatively low incomes, as defined by law. In practice, the 90% of the students have the right to free meals.
The operation of the restaurants is monitored both by the Restaurant Committee, which has been established specifically for this purpose, and the Head of the Institution’s Health Service to ensure sanitary standards are met. Furthermore, it is inspected by representatives of the Public Health Services. Zografou Restaurant: 210-772-3068, Patission Restaurant: 210-772-3832

Canteens

At the Zografou Campus there are canteens at the Civil, Electrical, Chemical, Surveying and Mining Engineering school buildings, at the Applied Sciences School building, at the Sports Center and at the Administration building. 

Physical Education and Sports Center

The Sports Centre has two gyms: one on Patission Street (on the 5th floor of the Bouboulina Building) and one on the Zografou Campus (near the student flats). Students who belong to sporting associations may join the university teams and take part in inter-university matches. Other students may use the sports facilities of NTUA and other facilities such as the Municipality of Athens swimming pool, the tennis courts in the same area, yacht clubs etc.
The sports available to NTUA students include fitness training, aerobics, volleyball, football, handball, table tennis, tennis, swimming, water polo, rowing, sailing, windsurfing, sub-aqua diving, mountaineering, fencing, karate, judo, kendo, shooting, gliding, climbing, track and field, horse-riding, skiing, chess, bridge, rafting and paintball.
Participation in sporting events is free, with the exception of some expensive sports for which students are required to pay a small part of the cost.

Bicycle Path

In 2004, a 4 Km long bicycle path was constructed at the Zografou campus. This green route connects all NTUA Schools and infrastructure (such as the restaurants, the library, etc.) and is dotted with benches, arbours, bicycle stands and fountains that can provide rest and relaxation. The bicycle path goes through the two main squares of the campus and then reaches the administration buildings. Plans to connect NTUA with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and Goudi Park are currently being processed.

Health Center

Medical assistance is provided at the clinic that is based in the Zografou campus and functions as a diagnostic and a referral centre as well as a First Aid Unit. The clinic is located in the centre of the campus, on the ground floor of the General Courses Building of the School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, next to the main square. Information: 210-772-1566. Dr A. Antonopoulos: 210-772-1568.

Post Office

A Hellenic post branch operates at the Zografou campus, and is located in the parking space near the administration buildings. Services offered include: paying bills, sending and receiving letters, parcels and cheques, purchasing mobile phone calling cards, using the “Door-to-Door” service (inland and international courier services), carrying out Hellenic Postbank – Eurobank transactions and purchasing philatelic items as well as various business gifts. Opening hours: Monday - Wednesday - Friday, 08.00-14.30, tel.: 210-772-1257, fax 210-772-1358

Church

The Church of the Three Hierarchs at the Zografou Campus operates during Church Services of the ecclesiastical year (except academic holidays). The daily schedule varies according to availability of volunteer sextons and interested students. Responsibility for the operation of the Church lies with the Care Committee for the Church of the Three Hierarchs at the Zografou campus. The Church is located near the new buildings of the School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences.