International Program Stories | BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision Making

The web portal Study in Greece is campaigning for the promotion and international visibility of Greek Universities and the comparative educational advantages of our country. In particular, the campaign focuses on the foreign language study programs that Greek Universities offer to Greek and international students. The initiative is supported by the General Secretariat of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In this context, a number of educational programs and actions are presented in detail on a regular basis, such as undergraduate and postgraduate programs, summer schools etc, to inform international students about the many foreign language options offered by Greek Universities.

Study in Greece interviewed Assistant Professor Christos Kallandranis, Director of the BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision Making offered by the University of West Attica, about the program, its features and what it has to offer to international students.

Dr. Christos Kallandranis is Assistant Professor in Finance at the University of West Attica. He received his PhD in Economics from the University of Patras, Greece, in 2007. He also holds an MSc in Finance & Economics from the Manchester Business School (formerly UMIST) and a BA in Public Administration (Economics Division) from Panteion University of Athens.With nearly 15 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Kallandranis has developed a strong background in teaching, research, and consultancy. He has also accumulated over three years of professional industry experience and four years of involvement in EU-funded research programs.

Dr Kallandranis, please tell us what inspired the creation of the BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision-Making, and how does it differentiate itself from traditional business or philosophy programs?

The BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision Making was inspired by the growing need for ethical, critical, and strategic thinking in the business world. In an era of rapid technological advancements, complex global markets, and increasing social responsibility, we recognized that traditional business programs often focus on technical skills, while philosophy programs emphasize abstract reasoning. This program bridges the gap by integrating philosophical analysis with real-world business applications, equipping students with the ability to navigate ethical dilemmas, enhance decision-making processes, and develop innovative strategies grounded in critical thought. Unlike conventional business degrees, which prioritize quantitative skills, or philosophy programs that remain largely theoretical, this interdisciplinary approach cultivates well-rounded leaders capable of making principled and forward-thinking decisions in dynamic business environments. The philosophical aspect in our program comes with an element of a humanitarian approach in a typical business program. Students enrolling in this program will gain all the essential skills typically provided in a business degree, ensuring a well-rounded education.

What are the main learning objectives of this bachelor’s program, and how does it prepare students for business environments?

The BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision Making equips students with critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving skills essential for navigating complex business environments. Key learning objectives include developing logical analysis and argumentation abilities, understanding ethical frameworks for responsible decision-making, and applying philosophical insights to real-world business challenges. Students learn to assess risks, balance stakeholder interests, and make informed, ethical choices in dynamic corporate settings. However, we need to note that, our program is essentially a business oriented one. Indeed, students gain expertise in key areas such as finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship, equipping them with the analytical and strategic abilities needed to navigate complex business environments. The program emphasizes real-world applications through case studies, internships, and industry collaborations, ensuring graduates can adapt to dynamic markets, make data-driven decisions, and lead with confidence. By integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, this program prepares students to excel in diverse business settings and drive organizational success.

How did the university design the curriculum to ensure a balance between philosophy and business decision-making?

The university has carefully designed the BA in Applied Philosophy in Business Decision Making curriculum to strike a balance between philosophical inquiry and practical business decision-making. The program integrates core philosophical concepts—such as ethics, logic, and critical thinking—with applied business disciplines like management, finance, and strategy. Courses are structured to encourage students to analyse complex business scenarios through both theoretical and practical lenses, fostering ethical leadership and sound judgment. Case studies, experiential learning, and interdisciplinary projects ensure that students not only understand philosophical principles but also learn how to apply them effectively in real-world business contexts. The main secret to combine both worlds is how the assessment strategy is constructed. We do hope that the assignments along with the lectures, will provide to our students a holistic view of the real business world, necessary for job seekers in the corporate world, skills that up to now are not that prevalent in the business world.

What initiatives does the program have in place to attract and support international students?

Our Bachelor Program attracts and supports international students through a range of initiatives designed to foster inclusivity and academic success. We do hope that we can support students at every stage – and put them in the driving seat, shaping their education from day one:

Academic Advisor: students receive tailored advice and support when needed
Academic guidance: students access regular one-to-one sessions and a unique open-door policy
Additional language classes: students can prepare for domestic and international opportunities
Additional Micromodules: students can enhance their understanding on specific modules by taking specialized micromodules for free.
Extra-curricular activities: In order students to accommodate to their new environment, a list of activities has been arranged for our newcomers. One-day trips, visits in archaeological sites, integrate with local society, events, Erasmus+, guest lectures and networking opportunities.

The program offers dedicated academic advising to help international students adjust to both the new academic and cultural environment. Our teaching approach is tailored made to students’ needs following what the market requires. Access to scholarships specifically for international applicants is also a strong option once the program starts its operation. By integrating global perspectives into the curriculum and encouraging cross-cultural dialogue, the program ensures that international students feel welcomed and empowered to thrive in both their studies and future careers.

What role does the program play in the university’s broader mission and educational strategy?

The program plays a crucial role in advancing the university’s broader mission by fostering academic excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. It aligns with the university’s educational strategy by equipping students with critical thinking skills, hands-on experience, and a global perspective to address real-world challenges. Additionally, it supports the university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and lifelong learning, preparing graduates to be leaders and changemakers in their respective fields. Last but not least, one of the main objectives of the university is its international exposure, and we do hope that our exclusively made for international students UG programs will provide an additional value to both the university and to our country as an international destination of tertiary education. In this respect, the role of Greek diaspora is extremely important.

How do you envision this program evolving in the next five years?

The whole committee envisions the new bachelor evolving into a highly interdisciplinary and in-demand program over the next five years. As businesses increasingly face complex ethical dilemmas, sustainability challenges, and AI-driven decision-making, the need for professionals who can apply philosophical reasoning to real-world problems will grow. The curriculum will likely expand to include emerging fields like tech ethics, corporate social responsibility, and behavioral economics, integrating practical case studies and AI-enhanced decision-making frameworks. Collaborations with industry leaders and internships will become more prominent, ensuring graduates are equipped with both critical thinking skills and hands-on business judgment. We do hope that the increased number of applicants will offer us the unique opportunity to continuously develop the program and to meet our students’ expectations. The main point is to be always ready to change and adopt anything that differentiates our program from the competition. We are strongly committed in being flexible and agile in the new developments and we are already working in this direction.

Who can apply and how one can place her/his application?

Please note that based on the domestic legislation in force eligible candidates are:

1. Graduates of high schools or equivalent schools that are physically based abroad. If they have attended the last two (2) grades of high school or equivalent school in a foreign country, they must present a high school diploma or other equivalent secondary education qualification entitling them to admission to higher education institutions in the country in which they graduated.

2. Graduates of a recognised foreign school of other EU member states or third countries legally established and operating in Greece, whose qualification entitles them to admission to higher education institutions located in the country whose educational curriculum is followed by the foreign school of graduation, provided that: b) they and their parents do not have Greek citizenship and b) they have fully attended at least the last two (2) grades of high school.

The Application Process is fully automated as interested candidates are encouraged to apply by following these steps:

1. Online Application: Complete the online application form available on our website https://philosophy-business.uniwa.gr/admissions

2. Submit Documents: Upload your academic transcripts, personal statement, English Certificate and letters of recommendation.

3. Online Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview (virtual).

The official Call for Applicants can be found here: https://philosophy-business.uniwa.gr/326-2/ where all the necessary details and steps are described.

Essential Documents to be submitted:

Completed online Application form.
CV in English
For already graduates: Senior High School Graduation Certificate. For those who are still studying: Final year academic transcript or midyear School Report. In case the transcripts are not in English a certified copy of English translation is needed. Candidates will be admitted if they have obtained at least a pass mark in their final year of secondary school.
Certificate of competency in English (not required for native speakers): English language proficiency certificate at B2 level or ILTS score > 5.5 (or equivalent) or TOEFL score > 79/120
Letter of Personal Statement in English
Copy of a valid Passport
One (1) photo (small)

Important Dates