Online MSc in

METAVERSE

The World’s First Master’s Degree in Metaverse

A cutting-edge interdisciplinary programme delivered online. It is designed to prepare innovators, creators, developers, architects, social scientists, financial professionals, policy makers, and beyond, for dynamic careers in metaverse design and management. This master’s programme is strategically designed to empower students to understand the complex relationship between Metaverse technologies and their diverse applications, providing invaluable insights into the design, development, and strategic implementation of innovative Metaverse products and services.

Next Start Date: September 2024

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Why Choose UNIC

For Your Master’s Degree in Metaverse

Academic
Quality

Taught by leading faculty and industry practitioners from around the world

Student
Community

Largest blockchain and metaverse student community in the world

Professional
Development

Networking opportunities in the Blockchain and Metaverse industries

SCHOLARSHIPS

€300,000 in merit-based and need-based scholarships

As a pivotal component of the University of Nicosia’s Open Metaverse Initiative (OMI), our MSc in Metaverse is dedicated to fostering Metaverse adoption through open public systems and standards. Leveraging our university’s ten-year track record as a leader in blockchain and digital currency education, OMI is committed to propelling the Metaverse into the future.

Bridging the gap

The program is designed to bridge a crucial gap between the growing demand for academic knowledge in Metaverse systems and technologies and the limited supply available today. Despite the surging interest in Metaverse, universities have been slow to implement comprehensive academic programs covering the diverse aspects of this field, including technical, financial, social, legal, and business considerations.

Recent advancements and the convergence of technologies such as Extended Reality (XR), Blockchain, Digital Currencies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) have intensified the need for Metaverse education. Furthermore, businesses across various sectors are increasingly recognizing the advantages of this technology and are venturing into the Metaverse with experts estimating that the Metaverse market will exceed 1 trillion dollars in 2030s. However, the potential benefits and associated risks demand careful evaluation by experts spanning multiple disciplines. In this competitive and interconnected landscape, challenges are plentiful, and there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. A well-rounded education not only enhances the understanding of Metaverse but also fosters responsible decision-making in business. This holistic approach serves as the best pathway to maximize the advantages derived from the use of Metaverse technology in this dynamic environment.

Includes MOOC on NFTs and the Metaverse

Our Master’s curriculum features UNIC’s flagship MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) titled “NFTs and the Metaverse.” This groundbreaking course is the world’s first university course delivered exclusively on-chain and in the metaverse. Taught by UNIC faculty and Punk 6529 – an influential figure Crypto as well as one of the largest NFT collectors globally – the course hosts esteemed guests such as Balaji Srinivasan, Fred Wilson, Chris Dixon, and Beeple. The first iteration of the course, took place in specially designed virtual auditoriums inside OM – Punk 6529’s Open Metaverse and attracted more than 22,500 online students.

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Degree Overview

The MSc in Metaverse is offered online to students worldwide and the language of instruction is English. The first course in the degree pathway, META-511DL: NFTs and the Metaverse, is available for free as an open enrollment MOOC course to anyone interested in learning more about the field and the practical ability to interact with emerging applications in NFTs and the Metaverse.

Qualification	Duration	Mode of Study	Language of Instruction	Minimum ECTS Credits
Master of Science in Metaverse	3 semesters or 1 calendar year	Distance Learning / Online	English	90 (9 modules)

What You Will Learn

Upon successfully completing the program, graduates will demonstrate the following learning outcomes based on Bloom’s Taxonomy:

1

Recall and apply knowledge and expertise in the operation and intricacies of Metaverse systems.

2

Interpret and comprehend research literature, leading to the generation of new knowledge in the Metaverse domain.

3

Propose original applications by analyzing and applying research knowledge effectively in the diverse field of Metaverse.

4

Demonstrate leadership skills through collaborative teamwork in the Metaverse context.

5

Develop the ability to critically evaluate Metaverse systems and solutions, applying theoretical knowledge, best practices, and tools across their life cycle – from specification and design to implementation, maintenance, and management.

6

Cultivate the capacity to creatively address complex problems, either independently or as part of a group, by engaging in research or practical projects related to the Metaverse.

7

Communicate effectively and analytically, employing techniques derived from scientific practice, in various formats such as group meetings, presentations, lectures, written reports, and research papers.

8

Exhibit skills necessary for active participation in research and development endeavors or independent work in specialized areas, along with the ability to pursue further studies towards a doctoral degree.

Career Prospects

The program gives students the opportunity to acquire deeper knowledge and skills in the field of Metaverse Systems.

This is a relatively new area of practice and research that is expected to provide ample employment opportunities for program graduates in various and inter-disciplinary positions.

The program is both theoretical and practical and has been designed to allow the students to choose those elective courses that will meet their future career goals.

Regardless of the stream chosen by students, each instructor strives to create an inspiring atmosphere for the students and enhances the learning experience.

Graduates may become

Metaverse Project Manager
Metaverse Business Development Manager
Metaverse token and NFT expert
Metaverse Data Scientist/Analyst
Metaverse Entrepreneur
Metaverse Researcher/Analyst.
Metaverse Developer/Programmer
Metaverse Architect
Metaverse Designer/Artist

Access to further studies

The MSc in Metaverse is a research-based program that also equips students with the theoretical knowledge combined with the ability to apply this practically. Upon completion of the program, students can undertake further studies (PhD) in the field.

teaching methodology

The program is offered through distance learning so as to be accessible to all interested students, irrespective of their geographic location. Within the distance-learning paradigm, the program deploys various teaching methods: while the majority of the courses consist of lectures delivered by the faculty course lecturer(s), in some cases it may be deemed appropriate and beneficial to host guest lecturers with academic and business background related to topics covered in courses.

Moreover, practical exercises, individual and group projects, simulations, and case study analyses, will form an integral part of the teaching methodology employed in the program.

Admission Requirements, Assessment and Regulations

Academic Admission

Applications for admission to the programme will be considered only from candidates that fulfil the minimum entrance criteria as described below:

Bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree and transcripts from an accredited university.

Proficiency in the English Language

Students satisfy the English requirements if their first degree was taught in English. Otherwise, they would need to present at least a TOEFL score of 550 paper-based or 213 computer-based, or GCSE “O” Level with “C” or IELTS with a score of 6.0 or score placement at the ENGL-100 level of the University of Nicosia Placement Test.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

If you are unsure whether you meet the admissions requirements, please complete the registration form to start a discussion with an Admissions advisor.

Personal Statement

A one page long personal statement.

If you are unsure whether you meet the admissions requirements, please complete the registration form to start a discussion with an Enrollment advisor.

Assessment

Course assessment usually comprises of a comprehensive final exam and continuous assessment. Continuous assessment can include amongst others, mid-terms, projects, and class participation.

Letter grades are calculated based on the weight of the final exam and the continuous assessment and the actual numerical marks obtained in these two assessment components. Based on the course grades the student’s semester Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Point Average (CPA) are calculated.

Graduation Requirements

The student must complete 240 ECTS and all programme requirements.
A minimum cumulative grade point average (CPA) of 2.0 is required. Thus, although a ‘D-‘ is a PASS grade, in order to achieve a CPA of 2.0 an average grade of ‘C’ is required.

Tuition and Scholarships

TUITION FEES

The total cost of the master’s programme is €14,960

The first course in the degree programme pathway, META-511DL: NFTs and the Metaverse is offered as a MOOC, free of charge, to students worldwide.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Online payments on the University website via the Student Application tool.

Online at JCCSmart.
Flywire International Payments.
By Using Bitcoin (Students paying in Bitcoin will receive a 5% discount on the “net fees” (i.e. after scholarship) payable).
By Bank Transfer.
By Means of a Bank Draft issued to University of Nicosia.
By Cash, Cheque or Visa at the Finance Department Offices.

Please visit the Payment Methods page on the main UNIC website for detailed payment instructions

FURTHER DISCOUNTS

Students paying the full program fees upfront will receive an additional 7.5% discount on the “net fees” (i.e. after all other discounts and scholarship) payable.

SCHOLARSHIPS

The University of Nicosia believes strongly in expanding accessibility to and affordability of higher education. For this academic year, MSc in Metaverse program has over €300,000 euros of financial aid available to students attending the MSc program, through a combination of merit scholarships, need-based scholarships and work-study programs.

Since the MSc program has a rolling admissions policy, scholarships are reviewed and awarded monthly, in conjunction with admissions.

SCHOLARSHIP TERMS

Only students who have completed their MSc application and have been accepted to the MSc are eligible to submit a scholarship application.
Each student can earn a maximum of one (1) merit or need-based scholarship, though need and merit scholarships can be combined.
Work-study programs can be combined with either need or merit scholarships upon special approval.
Scholarships are applied on a pro-rata basis to each course in the MSc.
The University of Nicosia reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to award or not award any scholarship to any student and/or to change the number of scholarships awarded, their eligibility requirements or any other aspect of the financial aid program.

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Scholarships

The University of Nicosia believes strongly in expanding accessibility to and affordability of higher education. For this academic year, the MSc in Blockchain and Digital Currency program has over €300,000 euros of financial aid available to students attending the MSc program, through a combination of merit scholarships, need-based scholarships and work-study programs.

Since the MSc program has a rolling admissions policy, scholarships are reviewed and awarded monthly, in conjunction with admissions decisions.

Metaverse Scholars

Need Based | 20%-75% Scholarship
Students with financial need are eligible to apply for this need-based award. In order to be considered for this scholarship, in addition to the scholarship application, students need to provide evidence of financial need.

Number Available
Up to 3 per month (up to 36 annually).

Application Process
Submit MSc in Metaverse Scholarship Application, including an income statement / proof of financial need.

Work-Study Peer-to-Peer Scholarship

Work-Study | 30% Scholarship
Students with interest in and capability to work on outreach or research assistant activities during their studies.

Number Available
Up to 2 per month (up to 24 annually).

Application Process
Submit in Metaverse Scholarship Application, including a brief proposal explaining what services you can provide to the University’s Research Institute. (Research Assistants are expected to work 15 hours per month on either outreach or research).

UNIC Proof of Merit Scholars

Merit Based | 10% Scholarship
Students with strong undergraduate academic Records. Minimum level for consideration is an undergraduate GPA above 3.5 (US scale), “First” (UK scale) or local equivalent.

Number Available
Up to 3 per month (up to 36 annually).

Application Process
Submit MSc in Metaverse Scholarship Application and undergraduate transcript.

Genesis Block Scholars

Merit Based | 25% Scholarship
Students with exceptional track records in cryptocurrency. In order to be considered for this award, documentation of contribution and notable achievements in cryptocurrency must be provided.

Number Available
5 annually, awarded on a rolling basis.

Application Process
Submit in Metaverse Scholarship Application, including proof of academic or professional work in Blockchain Technology and a cover letter explaining your involvement.

Scholarship Application

All scholarship applications must also be accompanied by a brief cover letter explaining their eligibility.
Only students who have completed their MSc application and have been accepted to the MSc are eligible to submit a scholarship application.
Each student can earn a maximum of one (1) merit or need-based scholarship, though need and merit scholarships can be combined.
Work-study programs can be combined with either need or merit scholarships upon special approval.
Scholarships are applied on a pro-rata basis to each course in the MSc.
The University of Nicosia reserves the right, at its sole discretion to award or not award any scholarship to any student and/or to change the number of scholarships awarded, their eligibility requirements or any other aspect of the financial aid program.

Submit Your Scholarship Application Here

Degree outline

The program is structured into three semesters, with 30 ECTS per semester.

The first two semesters include three courses each, which are required for the completion of the program, whereas the third semester includes courses that students should choose among a wide list of elective courses. There is a thesis option (30 ECTS) for students wishing to substitute elective courses during the third semester.

ECTS Credit Requirements

Required Courses (1st semester) – 30

Required Courses (2nd semester) – 30

Elective Courses (3rd semester) – 30

or Thesis option – 30

Total Requirements – 90

To successfully complete the program, students must complete 90 ECTS and all program requirements.

Program Pathway

Section A: Required CoursesECTS: Min: 60 Max: 60

Course ID	Course Title	ECTS Credits
META-511DL	NFTs and the Metaverse	10
META-512DL	Metaverse Technologies and Applications	10
META-513DL	Open Web Architecture and Digital Assets	10
META-514DL	Extended Reality	10
META-515DL	Virtual World Architectures	10
META-516DL	Social, Legal and Ethical Issues in the Metaverse	10

Section B: ElectivesECTS: Min: 30 Max: 30

Course ID	Course Title	ECTS Credits
META-521DL	Metaverse Entrepreneurship	10
META-522DL	Smart Contract Programming for Metaverse Applications	10
META-523DL	Emerging topics in the Metaverse	10
META-524DL	Virtual Economies in the Metaverse	10
META-525DL	Data Science for the Metaverse	10
META-526DL	Virtual and Augmented Reality Development	10
META-527DL	User Experience and Interactive Design	10
META-528DL	Metaverse Token Economics	10
META-529DL	Metaverse Game Development	10
META-551DL	Master Thesis	30
META-552DL	Placement/Internship	30

SEMESTER BREAKDOWN

Semester 1

Course ID	Course Title	ECTS Credits
META-511DL	NFTs and the Metaverse	10
META-512DL	Metaverse Technologies and Applications	10
META-513DL	Open Web Architecture and Digital Assets	10

SEMESTER 2

Course ID	Course Title	ECTS Credits
META-514DL	Extended Reality	10
META-515DL	Virtual World Architectures	10
META-516DL	Social, Legal and Ethical Issues in the Metaverse	10

SEMESTER 3

Course ID	Course Title	ECTS Credits
META-551DL	Master Thesis	30

NOTES

In the 3rd semester, the required electives are 30 ECTS: either (a)three elective courses, (b)Thesis or (c)Placement/Internship.

The above semester breakdown is an indicative one. A few of the courses are electives and can be substituted by others. Students may contact their academic advisor and consult their academic pathway found on this website under “Schools & Programmes”.

View Course Schedule 2023-2024 (PDF)

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Meet Your Instructors

The University of Nicosia has one of the largest teams in the world in academia focused on blockchain and digital currency issues. Over 35 people have been involved in the program in some capacity over the last 24 months.