The second semester of the 2nd cohort of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program FLOURISH: Resilience in Educational Contexts has just been successfully completed at the University of Crete (UoC). The orientation day and the start of the Spring Semester was on February 14, 2025, and classes ended at the end of May.
Τhe FLOURISH Joint International Masters degree started in 2023 and is the only Erasmus Mundus at the University of Crete focused on Psychology & Education with emphasis on Prevention. This important collaboration has added to the University’s international recognition as a point of reference in the field of Resilience Research and Applied Prevention Programs in educational contexts.
This unique program is jointly delivered by four partner institutions: the University of Malta (Coordinator), the University of Crete, Greece, the University of Lisbon, Portugal and Ștefan cel Mare University of Suceava (Romania). Held on the scenic Gallos campus of the University of Crete in Rethymno, this semester brought together 20 students from around the world to explore resilience in education through four in-depth courses.
- Research Methods in Resilience in Education
- Contextual Processes in Resilience Enhancement: Classroom and School Climates
- Working with Parents and Professionals in Enhancing Resilience
- Selected Topics in Resilience and Applications in Education
The learning experience was enriched by contributions from both Greek faculty and internationally renowned experts such as:
Prof. Linda Theron (University of Pretoria, South Africa).
Prof. Michael Ungar (Dalhousie University, Canada)
Other invited speakers of Semester 2 program were:
Prof. Sevgi Bayram-Özdemir (Örebro University, Sweden)
Prof. Celeste Simões & Dr. Anabela Caetano Santos (University of Lisbon, Portugal).
Under the academic leadership of Prof. Anastassios Matsopoulos, Scientific Director of the FLOURISH program and with the expertise of faculty and staff, students not only developed key theoretical and practical skills but also participated in meaningful exchanges on the power of resilience in education. Notably, this semester received very positive evaluations from students, who praised both the academic quality and the supportive, dynamic learning environment of the University of Crete.
As one student noted, “The strong points of the course included engaging content, knowledgeable instructors, interactive activities, and practical applications that enhanced learning.” Another graduate student highlighted that “Class discussions were very useful and insightful, and the professors were always open, respectful, and supportive”.
“The study unit effectively bridged resilience theory with real-world application, offering numerous practical strategies for implementing resilience-building interventions,” shared one student. Another commented, “The professors were very well-prepared and organized, always available to guide us even after class hours.”
Beyond academic growth, students also enjoyed vibrant cultural experiences and created lasting memories while living on the island of Crete. Besides the coursework, the 20 students visited the 4th Junior High School in Missiria and connected with faculty and students. Outside the University and during a day trip, the group visited the Monastery of Preveli and the Plakias area which made a significant impression on the students showcasing the island’s breathtaking beauty. As they prepare for the next leg of their journey, the second cohort carries forward the spirit of FLOURISH: collaboration, growth, and a commitment to fostering resilience in schools and communities across the world.
“It was great to have guest speakers and learn about real-life scenarios,” one participant said, while another added, “The lessons were super engaging — the professors valued our voices, and the resources used were up to date and very helpful.”
We are very excited to welcome our 3rd cohort of students at the University of Crete in February 2026. Applications for new students in the Joint Masters Erasmus Mundus program (Resilience in Educational Contexts) opened in October 15, 2025 and close by December 15th 2025.
More information about this international Master’s program can be found at the Department of Preschool education website (https://ptpe.edc.uoc.gr/el/erasmus-mundus-flourish) and at the University of Malta website (flourishproject.mt). The program has been administratively supported by Mrs Isavella Theodosiou and runs as an innovative program under the auspices of the School Psychology Research Unit of the Research in Psychology Lab of the UoC Department of Preschool Education.
The next scholarship call for applications for the Εrasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree “Resilience in Educational Contexts” for the 4th cohort closes in 15th December 2025.
For information on the requirements please check here: https://flourishproject.mt/applications/entry-requirements/
