University of Patras - History

History

The University of Patras was founded in the city of Patras in 1964 and it began functioning in the academic year 1966-67. Its establishment greatly contributed to the decentralization of academic education in Greece.

It was established primarily with the intention to concentrate on science, technology, economics, business administration and social sciences. In the proposal for a new university, which was the result of an international conference in August 1964, it is stated that the role of the University of Patras is to set an example of a highly qualified Institution of higher learning and serve as a stimulus for the creation of the Greek higher education system. Priority was given to the fields where highly trained personnel should be needed for the realization of the economic development of the country.

It is the third largest university in the country and the fastest growing one, with 18,500 undergraduate students, 2000 post-graduate students, 670 teaching staff, 369 administrative personnel and 403 teaching and research assistants. The initial emphasis on science and technology has been extended to other academic areas such as health sciences and humanities. Today, its 22 departments with a large number of sectors and consequently a great range of disciplines, reflect a balanced academic environment.

The University of Patras is ranked at 327 among the world's universities.