The Cyprus Research and Technology Institute for Higher Studies 

⚠️ Important Announcement: CRTIHS is permanently closed

Closure of CRTIHS Campuses and Centers

By the end of 2009, all CRTIHS campuses and centers were permanently closed after losing accreditation. The institution, a private, non-profit organization, was unable to maintain enrollment levels, faculty retention, and financial stability. The effects of the Great Recession likely contributed to its closure. read more

Last updated 20 December 2024

The Cyprus Research and Technology Institute for Higher Studies 

About Us

The Cyprus Research and Technology Institute for Higher Studies (CRTIHS), pronounced as CRITIC, is a leading academic and research institution committed to advancing scientific excellence, technological innovation, and transformative education. Serving as a regional hub for cutting-edge research and global collaborations, CRTIHS addresses both current challenges and future opportunities by fostering cross-disciplinary studies and delivering industry-driven solutions.

Founded in 1968, CRTIHS was established as a public tertiary educational institution through a collaborative effort between the United Nations (UN) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Initially funded by the UN and the UNDP Special Fund, the institution came under the full operation of the Cypriot Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance in 1973.

Specializing in technical and engineering disciplines, CRTIHS offers four-year degree programs taught in English. The institution emphasizes practical training, ensuring that students gain essential hands-on experience within their respective industries. This educational approach ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a competitive global job market.

Departments at CRTIHS

The Higher Technical Institute of Cyprus operated five key departments:

Research and Industry Collaboration

In addition to academic programs, CRTIHS actively participated in research initiatives and provided consultancy services to local industries, strengthening Cyprus’ technical and industrial sector.

At CRTIHS, we believe in advancing knowledge beyond boundaries, empowering students, researchers, and professionals to lead with expertise and innovation in their respective fields. Our academic programs span undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies, blending cutting-edge research with hands-on learning experiences in areas such as engineering, technology, applied sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.

Our Mission

CRTIHS is committed to:
✔ Fostering innovation through world-class research and technological advancements.
✔ Educating future leaders with high-impact academic programs.
✔ Collaborating globally to drive sustainable solutions.
✔ Transforming Cyprus into a knowledge-based economy and a leading research hub in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.

A Global Gateway for Research and Innovation

Located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, CRTIHS serves as a gateway for international scientific collaboration, bridging the gap between academia, industry, and government. Our partnerships with top-tier universities, research centers, and multinational organizations enable us to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries, sustainable development, and economic growth.

With a strong commitment to excellence, integrity, and progress, CRTIHS continues to shape the future of research and education, empowering individuals and communities with knowledge, technology, and a vision for a better tomorrow.

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What Makes CRTIHS Stand Out? 

Cyprus Research and Technology Institute for Higher Studies (CRTIHS)

The Cyprus Research and Technology Institute for Higher Studies (CRTIHS) is a premier research and academic institution that goes beyond traditional education, redefining innovation, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination on a global scale. With a strong emphasis on technological advancement, open-source research, and interdisciplinary education, CRTIHS has positioned itself as a leading institution bridging academia, industry, and global research networks.

Here’s what makes CRTIHS stand out from other institutions and why it is recognized as a trailblazer in higher education and research:

1. Pioneering Open-Source Knowledge & Publications

Unlike traditional institutions, CRTIHS champions open-source knowledge sharing, making high-quality research accessible to students, scholars, and researchers without paywalls.

🔹 Global Open-Access Journals – Providing free access to peer-reviewed research in engineering, medicine, social sciences, and more.
🔹 Collaboration with International Research Networks – Partnering with EU, AU, SADC, and SARC institutions to expand academic reach and knowledge-sharing.
🔹 AI-Powered Research Assistance – Enhancing research capabilities with automated citations, multilingual support, and smart analytics.
🔹 Blockchain for Academic Integrity – Securing academic records, research papers, and digital diplomas through tamper-proof blockchain technology.

CRTIHS believes that knowledge should be borderless, empowering students and researchers globally with unrestricted access to learning.

2. A Massive Digital Library & Interlinked Research System

CRTIHS hosts one of the largest interlinked library networks in collaboration with global institutions, offering students and faculty access to millions of academic resources.

🔹 Over 2.3 Million Research Papers & Digital Books
🔹 Integrated with EU, AU, SADC, & SARC Research Networks
🔹 AI-Driven Knowledge Search & Smart Recommendations
🔹 24/7 Remote Access with Personalized Learning Portals

By leveraging cutting-edge digital tools, CRTIHS provides a seamless research experience, empowering scholars to explore, innovate, and lead in their respective fields.

3. Industry-Aligned, Future-Focused Academic Programs

CRTIHS is not just an academic institution—it is a launchpad for careers and innovation. The curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry leaders, ensuring that students graduate with practical skills, real-world experience, and job-ready expertise.

🔹 Cutting-Edge Programs Across Disciplines

🔹 Hands-On Learning & Research Opportunities

✔ Internships with Global Tech Companies & Research Labs
✔ Hackathons, Industry Projects & Start-Up Incubators
✔ Research Grants & Scholarships for Innovators

CRTIHS ensures that every graduate is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the evolving job market.

4. A Global Hub for Research & Innovation

CRTIHS is a center for groundbreaking research and transformative discoveries, collaborating with top universities, government institutions, and leading tech companies worldwide.

🔹 Multi-Disciplinary Research Centers & Labs
🔹 $2.3 Million Grant for Global Research & Digital Libraries
🔹 Patents & Innovations Driving Technological Progress
🔹 International Research Partnerships & Knowledge Exchanges

Whether it's climate science, space technology, artificial intelligence, or biomedical advancements, CRTIHS is at the forefront of shaping the future of knowledge and innovation.

5. A Strong Commitment to Global Collaboration

CRTIHS is uniquely positioned as an academic gateway between Europe, Africa, and Asia, fostering cross-border collaborations that impact global education, research, and policy-making.

🔹 Partnerships with European Union & African Union Institutions
🔹 Ties with South African Development Community (SADC) & South Asian Regional Corporation (SARC)
🔹 Student Exchange & Research Mobility Programs
🔹 International Conferences, Seminars & Collaborative Projects

This intercontinental approach allows CRTIHS to promote innovation, knowledge-sharing, and academic development across diverse regions.

6. A Technology-Driven Learning Experience

CRTIHS leverages the latest educational technologies to ensure that learning is engaging, interactive, and future-ready.

🔹 Smart Learning Features at CRTIHS:

✔ AI-Powered Digital Classrooms & Research Portals
✔ Virtual & Augmented Reality Labs for Experiential Learning
✔ Cloud-Based Collaboration Platforms for Students & Faculty
✔ Big Data & Analytics for Personalized Learning

With a data-driven approach to education, CRTIHS ensures adaptive, real-time learning solutions that cater to the needs of 21st-century students.

7. Affordable, Flexible, & Accessible Education

CRTIHS believes in inclusive education, offering affordable tuition fees, flexible learning programs, and financial aid options to ensure that quality education is within reach for all.

🔹 Scholarships & Grants for Merit-Based & Need-Based Students
🔹 Online & Hybrid Learning Options for Global Students
🔹 Open-Access Educational Resources & Free Course Materials

By making world-class education accessible, CRTIHS is breaking barriers and empowering the next generation of leaders.

8. A Dynamic, Culturally Diverse Campus

CRTIHS is home to students and faculty from over 50 countries, creating a vibrant and inclusive learning community.

🔹 Multicultural Student Organizations & Clubs
🔹 International Faculty from Top-Ranked Universities
🔹 Language & Cultural Exchange Programs
🔹 Global Networking & Career Opportunities

The diverse environment fosters creativity, innovation, and a strong global perspective, ensuring that students graduate as world-ready professionals.

Conclusion: CRTIHS – A New Era of Higher Education

CRTIHS is not just a university—it is a movement towards a smarter, more connected world of knowledge and innovation. By integrating cutting-edge technology, open-access research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, CRTIHS stands at the forefront of academic transformation.

📌 What Makes CRTIHS Stand Out?
✔ A Leader in Open-Source Research & Publications
✔ One of the Largest Digital Libraries with Global Access
✔ Future-Ready Academic Programs with Industry Integration
✔ A Global Hub for Research, Innovation & Collaboration
✔ Tech-Driven Learning with AI & Smart Classrooms
✔ Affordable, Flexible & Inclusive Education
✔ An International, Culturally Diverse Campus

Whether you’re a student, researcher, entrepreneur, or industry leader, CRTIHS provides the platform, resources, and global connections to help you achieve your goals.