The University of Crete (UOC) is the principal higher education institution on the island of Crete, Greece. The University of Crete, is a multi-disciplinary, research- oriented institution, located in the cities of Rethymnon and Heraklion. It is a University with a well-known reputation both nationally and internationally for its state-of-the art curricula and graduate programmes In addition, the University has developed considerable research activity and has undertaken innovative initiatives that reflect its dynamic. The University was established in 1973 and started functioning in the academic year 1977-78. As a higher education institution, it is a legal person of public law, i.e. it operates under the supervision of the State. The seat of the University is in Rethymnon. The supreme administrative body of the University is the senate, which is presided over by the Rector of the University. The Head of the University is the Rector who is assisted by three Vice-Rectors in the exercise of his duties; all four together form the institution's high authority. They are elected for a period of three years by the teaching staff and representatives of the student body.