Programme Overview

Program Objective

The Master’s Program in Human Performance aims to provide specialized education, research, and training for high-level scientists capable of contributing to both theoretical and applied scientific fields. The program is designed around two key pillars:

Maximizing athletic performance
Utilizing exercise for prevention and rehabilitation

The P.M.S. offers a modern, interdisciplinary, and internationally competitive academic environment, where scientific knowledge is directly linked to practical application. Through advanced methodologies and cutting-edge research tools, students acquire the necessary skills to meet the modern demands of sports, health, and rehabilitation.

Strengthening cooperation between academic institutions in Greece and internationally through joint research programs and academic exchanges.
Connecting scientific knowledge with the job market by collaborating with productive, social, and research organizations in Greece and abroad.
Supporting applied research through specialized laboratories at the School of Physical Education & Sports Science (TEFAA), Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (A.U.Th.), offering students opportunities to engage in research projects.
Providing advanced knowledge and skills for application in sports and clinical settings.
Training professionals in specialized scientific fields that are not covered by other Greek postgraduate programs in sports science.
Promoting continuous evolution and renewal of specialized scientific knowledge in exercise science and athletic performance.

The program is designed for individuals aspiring to become leaders in the field of sports science, contributing to the advancement of sports and health science through research, teaching, and practical application.

Program Innovations

The Master’s Program in Human Performance aims to advance knowledge, develop research, and train high-level scientists capable of contributing to both theoretical and applied scientific fields in maximizing athletic performance and utilizing exercise for prevention and rehabilitation.

Key Innovations

Emphasis on Research & Interdepartmental Collaboration
The program promotes joint academic initiatives within Greek universities, such as interdepartmental research projects and shared curricula.
International Research & Cooperation
It supports collaborative research and academic exchanges between Greek and international universities, fostering cross-European research programs and faculty/student exchanges.
Bridging Academic Knowledge & Professional Practice
The program integrates scientific knowledge with real-world applications, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in sports science, rehabilitation, and health sectors.
Advanced Research through TEFAA Laboratories
Students have access to state-of-the-art research labs at the School of Physical Education & Sports Science (TEFAA), Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, engaging in hands-on scientific research and innovation.
Active Student Participation in Research
The program encourages students to take part in research activities and projects, gaining valuable experience in data analysis, experimental design, and applied methodologies.
Distinguished Faculty Members
The teaching staff includes renowned scientists and experts, offering high-quality education based on cutting-edge research and professional experience.
Scholarships & Financial Support
Exceptional students can benefit from scholarships and funding opportunities, supporting their participation in research initiatives and academic projects.
Quality Assurance & Program Evaluation
The program implements comprehensive evaluation mechanisms, ensuring its continuous improvement and effectiveness in education and research.
Professional Development & Academic Training
Faculty members, administrative staff, and students have access to specialized training seminars, enhancing their academic and professional skills.

Practical Significance & Impact

The Master’s Program in Human Performance stands out for its scientific excellence and practical application, ensuring:

Continuous renewal and advancement of specialized scientific knowledge.
Training of professionals in fields not covered by other Greek postgraduate programs in sports science.
Collaboration with public, social, and research organizations in Greece and internationally.
High-quality education and skill development for future researchers and professionals in exercise science, sports performance, and rehabilitation.

Program Specializations

The Master’s Program in Human Performance offers two specialized tracks, from which students must select one:

a) Maximizing Athletic Performance

This track focuses on coaching methodologies and sports performance optimization. Students will gain in-depth knowledge in:

Coaching strategies and leadership in sports
Laboratory and field-based research on athletic performance
Development of personalized training programs
Nutritional principles in sports
Techniques for enhancing coaching effectiveness
Psychological support methods for athletes
Injury prevention and rehabilitation in sports
Exercise physiology and biomechanics in athletic performance

Upon completion, graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of training methodologies and the skills required to guide elite athletes and sports teams.

Career opportunities span all age groups and levels of athletic performance, including professional sports, elite competition, and recreational fitness programs.

b) Exercise for Prevention & Rehabilitation

This track focuses on the role of exercise in health improvement and disease prevention. Students will develop expertise in:

Understanding the impact of exercise on health
Behavioral aspects related to health and physical activity
Designing specialized exercise programs for various population groups
Nutritional principles and lifestyle factors affecting physical activity participation

Graduates will acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies to work in public and private sector organizations, specializing in the development and evaluation of exercise programs for mass sports and individuals with chronic conditions.

Program Attendance

The Master’s Program in Human Performance is conducted at the modern facilities of the School of Physical Education & Sports Science (TEFAA) in Thessaloniki, Thermi, offering a high-level academic and research environment.

Teaching takes place in:

Lecture halls at TEFAA Thessaloniki, equipped with state-of-the-art educational tools.
Specialized laboratories, where students engage in practical exercises and research activities.

Additionally, 31% of the total teaching hours are delivered through synchronous and asynchronous teleconferencing, utilizing advanced digital learning platforms. This hybrid learning model enables students to combine in-person attendance with remote education, ensuring flexible access to knowledge from any location.

Duration & Study Schedule

The Master’s Program in Human Performance has a total duration of three semesters for full-time students, including the completion and evaluation of the Master’s Thesis.

Teaching Format

The courses are delivered through lectures, laboratory exercises, research projects, and intensive training sessions, either in person or via synchronous and asynchronous online learning.

9 out of 13 lectures (69%) are conducted in person.
4 out of 13 lectures (31%) are delivered remotely.

Each course is offered once per academic year, either in the fall or spring semester. Students must register for courses during specific periods through the online academic portal (sis.auth.gr).

Attendance Policy

Attendance in lectures, laboratory sessions, and practical exercises is mandatory.

Maximum allowed absences per course: 2 out of 13 lectures.
Students may request one additional justified absence if attending scientific conferences or related academic events.

To justify an absence, students must:

Present and participate in a scientific conference (as a speaker or with a poster presentation).
Submit the conference schedule and proof of presentation from the event’s organizing committee within one week of the absence.

📌 Absences due to passive participation (as an attendee) or incomplete/late documentation will not be accepted.

Academic Year Planning

Each year, the Coordinating Committee (S.E.) determines:

The start and end dates of classes.
The rescheduling of missed classes (if necessary).
The duration of examination periods.
The assessment and grading methods.
The requirements for course completion and graduation.

📌 Maximum Study Duration: Students may extend their studies up to six semesters if additional time is required for completion.

Part-Time Study

The program offers a part-time study option for working students, in accordance with Article 33, Paragraph 2 of Law 4485/2017 (114 A΄).

🔹 Duration of Part-Time Study: It cannot exceed twice the standard study duration, meaning up to six semesters.

🔹 Who is eligible for part-time study?

Working students who are unable to meet the demands of full-time study.
Non-working students who, due to force majeure, are unable to attend the program on a regular basis.

📌 The decision is made by the Coordinating Committee (S.E.), following a documented request justifying the need for part-time study.

Study Suspension & Extension

Students have the option to suspend their studies by submitting a formal request to the Master’s Program Secretariat.

🔹 Study Suspension:

A suspension may be granted for up to two semesters.
During the suspension period, the student loses their student status.
The suspension period does not count toward the maximum study duration.

🔹 Study Extension:

In exceptional cases, a study extension of up to one year may be granted, following a justified decision by the Coordinating Committee (S.E.).

Re-examination & Student Dismissal

📌 Course Re-examination:
The conditions for course re-examinations and student dismissal procedures are defined in the Master’s Program Regulations.

🔹 If a student fails a course examination, they may request a re-examination by a three-member faculty committee from the department, composed of professors specializing in a related field of study.
🔹 The initial examiner is excluded from the re-examination committee.

Student Rights & Benefits

Graduate students are entitled to all rights and benefits provided to undergraduate students, with the following exceptions:

They do not receive free academic textbooks.
The department is required to provide accommodations and support for students with disabilities or special educational needs, as outlined in the Master’s Program Regulations.

The program is designed to offer flexibility, academic support, and a high level of educational quality, ensuring that all students have the necessary resources to successfully complete their studies.

Completion of Master’s Studies

To fulfill the program’s academic requirements, students must successfully complete one of the following two options:

🔹 Option 1 – Total: 90 ECTS

Seven elective courses (7 x 10 ECTS)
Master’s Thesis (20 ECTS)

🔹 Option 2 – Total: 90 ECTS

Nine elective courses (9 x 10 ECTS)