According to the Government Gazette establishing the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science of the Democritus University of Thrace (P.D. 465/29/30.11.83), the mission of the Undergraduate Program is:
a) To cultivate and advance the Science of Physical Education and Sport through academic and applied teaching and research.
b) To provide its graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills for their scientific and professional careers.
c) To contribute to the progress of Greek sports and promote the athletic spirit and culture in society.
d) To raise social awareness of the importance of Physical Education as a key factor in improving quality of life.
Upon completion of their studies, graduates acquire the necessary scientific knowledge, competencies, and skills in the Science of Physical Education and Sport, enabling them to pursue diverse professional careers, as detailed in the Diploma Supplement.
Graduates of the Department gain knowledge and skills essential for:
- teaching (design-implementation-evaluation) Physical Education, Sport, Exercise, and Health across all levels of education (Preschool, Primary, Secondary, Special Education Units, and Higher Education), in sports clubs, dance associations and schools, as well as in workplaces and community settings.
- teaching subjects related to Physical Education, Sport, Exercise, and Physical Activity in General, Special, Vocational, and Adult Education, and promoting health education, Olympic, and athletic culture.
- managing and staffing Sports Federations, Gyms, Physical Activity, Exercise, and Recreation Centers, sports companies, dance associations, and schools, as well as overseeing sports facilities in general.
- acting as technical advisors and scientific collaborators in Sports Federations, sports organizations, Diagnostic, Evaluation, and Support Centers, healthcare providers, recreation and dance organizations, sports tourism bodies, local government agencies, and other related entities.
- designing and implementing exercise interventions to prevent health issues in the general and special populations through exercise-providing organizations.
- designing and implementing, following medical consultation, programs of physical education, exercise, physical activity, and recreation for the treatment and rehabilitation of health issues in both general and special populations, in Schools and Institutions for individuals with special needs, Hospitals, Health Centers, Rehabilitation Centers, and other healthcare organizations, as well as in Ergometric Centers.
- designing and implementing exercise, sport, physical activity, dance, and recreation programs in Local Government Organizations, Municipal Enterprises, Open Care Centers for the Elderly, fitness centers, gyms, recreation bodies, outdoor activity providers, and summer camps.
- designing and implementing training programs for athletes, with or without disabilities, across all sports and categories, including coaching and guiding teams during competitions.
- taking on leadership roles in their field of expertise.
- participating in technological and entrepreneurial processes to create and offer new products and services in areas related to Physical Education, Sports, Dance, and Exercise for Health.
The Undergraduate Program of the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science at Democritus University of Thrace equips students with the essential knowledge and skills for their academic and professional development. Specifically, the program aims to fully prepare graduates to work in Physical Education and Sports across all educational levels and age groups.
This knowledge and skillset also enable graduates to pursue specialized postgraduate studies in Physical Education and Sports Science, as well as professional education programs focusing on the role of exercise in improving quality of life, performance, and health.