The Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania (MAICh) was created in accordance with Law 4443/64, which established Greece as a founder-member of the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM). Its foundation took place under Law 1537/85, which was passed by the Greek Parliament following the provision of Article 28, paragraph 1 of the Constitution (after at least a 2/3 majority of members in favour). The Centre constitutes an international organisation whose aim is the development of scientific cooperation in the sectors of economics, rural development, management, and applied biological, technological and environmental sciences, addressing to problems in the Mediterranean area. The Mediterranean Agronomic Institutes of Bari (Italy), Montpellier (France) and Saragoza (Spain) are constituent Institutes of the same organisation. The annual budget contribution of the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania is entirely provided by the Greek government.

The Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania offers post-graduate specialist studies (over a period of two academic years), leading to the degree of Master of Science (). Courses are conducted in the English language by visiting professors from Greek, European, American and Mediterranean Universities in cooperation with the Institute. An important comparative advantage is that the competence in the development of cooperation is highlighted within the European Union, the Mediterranean basin and Balkan countries, both in the provision of post-graduate training of executives and academics from these countries, as well as in the contribution to their economic development through common research and development projects. MAICh functions in 6 different strategic axes:

A. Centre for Sustainable Rural Development and the Competitiveness of Agro-business Firms

B. Centre for the Management and Protection of the Natural Environment

C. Centre for the Quality, Healthiness and Safety of Fresh and Processed Agricultural Produce: a)Food Quality Management and Chemistry of Natural Products b) Sustainable Production of Agricultural Produce.

D. Centre for the Application of Genetic Improvement and Biotechnology a) Genetic Improvement and Biotechnology of Agricultural Produce b) Natural Products and Biotechnology.

E. Centre for Development of Integrated Support to Information Systems

F. Centre for Vertically Organised Conference Services