The application

The American College of Greece (ACG) has submitted an application to establish a Legal Entity of Higher Education through Deree. According to the announcement, this step strengthens the institution’s formal presence by creating a university.

On February 26, 2026, ACG officially applied — in accordance with Law 5094/2024 — to establish Deree, The American University of Greece, in partnership with Roger Williams University.

This move aligns ACG’s long-standing academic model with the state-regulated framework of university education, granting official national recognition to an academic structure that has operated within ACG for many years.

Founded in 1875, the American College of Greece is the oldest and largest non-profit institution with American accreditation in Europe. Throughout its history, it has maintained a consistent mission, international orientation, and commitment to academic quality. Its goal remains to broaden students’ horizons and support their personal and professional development.

Collaboration with a U.S. university

The academic partnership with Roger Williams University — accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) — is expected to strengthen Greece’s position on the global higher education map.

With international student mobility rising and academic systems becoming increasingly interconnected, Deree University will offer authentic American-style university education, supporting Greece’s ambition to become a regional hub for global higher education.

At the core of the partnership is the ability to provide American-style degrees within a fully regulated Greek legal framework, allowing students to earn an American university degree while studying in Greece.

What schools will it have

Pending licensing and program approval, Deree University will consist of three schools:

1. Business & Economics
2. Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
3. Science & Technology

In its initial phase, it will offer:

• 24 undergraduate programs
• 1 postgraduate program

All degrees will be awarded by an institution accredited by NECHE and licensed by the State of Rhode Island. Business degrees will also carry AACSB accreditation due to the certification of Roger Williams University’s Gabelli School of Business.

Scholarships and access

Remaining faithful to the non-profit mission of the American College of Greece, the new university will provide scholarships and financial aid to ensure access and reward academic excellence.

What will not change

The creation of the new university entity will not alter the current structure or operation of Deree College. Existing students will complete their studies under the current system, and existing academic programs will remain unchanged.

The new university will admit only new first-year students once licensing and accreditation are completed.

Today, Deree College offers accredited bachelor’s and postgraduate programs, while ACG also includes:

• Pierce (primary and secondary education)
• Alba Graduate Business School
• Global Campus (online programs)

ACG expects to host more than 2,000 international students this year.