Assessment

A Holistic and Applied Assessment Approach

Assessment in the HERO-HEALTH Programme is designed to evaluate not only academic knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge in complex, real-world humanitarian and public health scenarios.

The programme adopts a multidimensional assessment framework, combining theoretical evaluation, applied performance, and research-based outputs, aligned with its interdisciplinary and experiential learning philosophy.

Continuous and Integrated Evaluation

Assessment is conducted throughout the programme, ensuring continuous monitoring of student progress and development. Students are evaluated across different learning environments, including:

  • Digital and blended learning environments

  • Simulation-based training scenarios

  • Field-inspired exercises

  • Research and academic work

This approach ensures that learning is progressive, cumulative, and practice-oriented.

Types of Assessment

Coursework & Academic Evaluation

Students are assessed through:

  • Individual and group assignments
  • Case study analysis
  • Policy design and evaluation
  • Written examinations (where applicable)

These methods evaluate students’ ability to analyze complex problems and propose evidence-based solutions.

Simulation-Based Assessment

A core component of the programme is the evaluation of students through large-scale simulation exercises, reflecting real-world crisis environments.

Students are assessed while participating in scenarios such as:

  • Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, wildfires)
  • Biological hazard events and outbreaks
  • Mass casualty incidents
  • Environmental and One Health crises

During these simulations, students demonstrate their ability to:

  • Apply interdisciplinary knowledge in real time
  • Make decisions under uncertainty and pressure
  • Coordinate with multiple stakeholders
  • Manage limited resources effectively

Performance-Based Evaluation

Students are evaluated based on their performance in dynamic environments, including:

  • Leadership and teamwork
  • Communication and coordination
  • Crisis response effectiveness
  • Problem-solving in complex situations

Special emphasis is placed on non-technical skills, which are critical in humanitarian and crisis settings.

Research & Master Thesis Assessment

In the final semester, students complete a Master Thesis (20 ECTS), applying their knowledge to a real-world problem in humanitarian action, public health, or One Health. The thesis demonstrates the ability to:

  • Conduct independent research
  • Integrate interdisciplinary knowledge
  • Propose practical and evidence-based solutions

Assessment Philosophy

Assessment in HERO-HEALTH goes beyond traditional academic evaluation. It is designed to ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also:

  • Operationally ready

  • Decision-capable under pressure

  • Able to function in interdisciplinary teams

  • Prepared for real-world humanitarian and public health challenges

Through its innovative and applied assessment model, the HERO-HEALTH Programme ensures that graduates are fully prepared to transition from learning to action in complex global environments.

Instructor Evaluation

At the end of the semester, students anonymously evaluate instructors using a special questionnaire provided by the Quality Assurance Unit (MODIP) of the University of Thessaly.
The Directorate of the Master’s Program encourages student participation in this evaluation process to ensure that feedback is considered when revising the curriculum.