Macquarie University to Discontinue Modern Greek Studies

The Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Limited has been informed by the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University about the impending discontinuation of several language programs, including Italian, Croatian, Russian, and Modern Greek.

The university's decision to proceed with the establishment of a new School follows Macquarie University's release of a Workplace Change Proposal in April 2024. Despite receiving feedback from various stakeholders, including the Foundation, the University has chosen to proceed with the proposal.

The Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Limited and its community partners vigorously advocated for the continuation of Modern Greek studies, going so far as to offer full coverage of program costs. However, the University's decision includes the consolidation of several disciplines into a new academic unit, combining areas such as Criminology, Politics and International Relations, Security Studies, and Global Cultures.

As part of the decision, the Modern Greek program will enter a 'resting and teach out' phase. Current students enrolled in Modern Greek will be allowed to complete their studies without disruption until the end of 2026. However, new enrollments in Modern Greek at Macquarie University will cease from Semester 1, 2025.

Although the Major and Diploma in Modern Greek, along with related curriculum components, are set to be discontinued, the University has expressed the possibility of incorporating Greek language and culture-related units of study within the new discipline of Global Cultures. The final content and curriculum design for this discipline are expected by late 2025.

In response to these changes, the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Limited is exploring proposals to support future students. This includes forging new collaborations with the University and exploring alternative avenues to support individuals passionate about the Modern Greek language and culture in Australia.

Media Contact:

Theo Premetis
President, Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Limited
Phone: +61 (2) 9718 1599
Email: info@macquariegreekstudiesfoundation.org.au
Website: macquariegreekstudiesfoundation.org.au