Founded in 1973, University of Crete is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Rethymno (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Crete. This institution also has a branch campus in Heraklion. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs of Greece, University of Crete (UOC) is a large coeducational Greek higher education institution. University of Crete (UOC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 49 years old Greek higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. UOC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.