The Greek government plans to reduce undergraduate studies from four to three years, aligning with the Bologna Process adopted across Europe since 1999.
The move is expected to face strong resistance from state university officials, professors, and students who argue that shortening programs will reduce required courses, which some view as a matter of academic prestige.
Under the Bologna framework, the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) applies a 3-2-3 model: three years for undergraduate, two for master’s, and three for a doctorate. Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria are the only EU members still holding four-year undergraduate systems.
Private universities soon to operate in Greece will offer three-year degrees, increasing competition for state institutions. However, many Greek graduates from such programs — especially abroad — face equivalency challenges with the National Academic Recognition and Information Center (DOATAP), which often requires additional exams.
The plan aims to boost degree compatibility across Europe and attract more students to Greece’s higher education system.
