The University of Peloponnese, in partnership with the International Olympic Academy (IOA), invites applications for the Master’s Degree Programme in “Olympic Studies, Olympic Education, Organization and Management of Olympic Events” (MSc) for the academic year 2026–2027. This internationally recognized programme is supported by Olympic Solidarity, an initiative of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which offers scholarships for selected candidates.
The programme is designed for graduates and professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of the Olympic Movement, gain expertise in Olympic philosophy, education, and sport management, and contribute to the global development of sport and Olympic education. Classes are conducted in Ancient Olympia and Sparta, Greece, providing students with a unique immersive experience at the historical heart of Olympism.
Through a combination of on-site lectures, practical workshops, and a master’s thesis completed remotely, the MSc offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating education, sport, culture, and management. Students also benefit from the opportunity to join a global network of professionals and organizations involved in the Olympic Movement.
What You’ll Gain
Participants in the MSc will gain multiple benefits that advance their academic and professional careers:
- Specialized Knowledge: Acquire advanced understanding of Olympic philosophy, pedagogy, and the historical and modern Olympic Games.
- Practical Experience: Learn the organization and management of Olympic events and major sports competitions.
- Professional Development: Gain skills in sports marketing, sponsorship, strategic planning, and financial management of sports organizations.
- Global Networking: Connect with Olympic committees, international federations, and professionals engaged in sports education, culture, and event management.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Tuition and full-boarding scholarships are available through National Olympic Committees for eligible candidates.
By combining theory and practical application, this programme prepares graduates to contribute to Olympic education programs, lead sport organizations, and participate actively in the international Olympic Movement.
Eligibility
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized Greek or foreign higher education institution. Preference is given to officials of National Olympic Academies, National Olympic Committees, the International Olympic Committee, international and national federations, and researchers in Olympic studies or sport management.
- Graduates from related fields such as education, sport, management, humanities, journalism, economics, pedagogy, or physical education are also eligible.
- Candidates must demonstrate professional experience, participation in sport events, Olympic education activities, or related research.
- Proficiency in English is required, with certificates for other languages considered an asset.
Applicants must provide supporting documentation, including transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, identification, proof of participation in relevant activities, and any certifications relevant to their experience. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online.
Programme Structure
The MSc programme runs for three semesters:
- First Semester (18 Sept – 21 Nov 2026): On-site lectures in Ancient Olympia and Sparta, covering the history and philosophy of sport, modern Olympic Games, Olympic pedagogy, ethics, and research methods.
- Second Semester (3 Apr – 6 Jun 2027): On-site lectures in Greece, with modules on Olympic pedagogy, organization of games and major sports events, sports marketing, and optional modules such as integrity in sport, financial management, and sport policies.
- Third Semester (Sept 2027 – Feb 2028): Completion and submission of the master’s thesis, conducted remotely.
All lectures are taught in English, and students are required to attend lectures, submit assignments, and complete examinations to progress successfully.
Costs and Scholarships
Tuition fees for the programme are 5,000 € for the three semesters, payable in three installments. Full-boarding at the IOA premises is approximately 3,500 €, with final costs confirmed individually.
Scholarships are available through National Olympic Committees via IOC Olympic Solidarity. Applicants are encouraged to declare interest in scholarships in their application form and contact their National Olympic Committees for further guidance.
Application Process and Deadline
To apply, candidates must submit the following certified documents both via email and in hard copy to the programme secretariat by 30 April 2026:
- Completed application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript, including thesis title and grade
- CV detailing studies, professional experience, research, and extracurricular activities
- Language proficiency certificates
- Passport or ID copy
- Recommendation letters from professors or relevant sport organizations
- Supporting documents for professional experience, participation in sports, or Olympic activities
👉 To learn more and apply, visit the official MSc in Olympic Studies programme page.
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