Developments in education in recent years have been rapid and reflect the need for effective adaptation to the realities of today. Modern learning models, international partnerships, and more flexible curricula are shaping an environment with more choice and real opportunities, enabling young people to chart their own course with greater autonomy. In this context, a major development in higher education is expected to transform the landscape in Greece. On February 26, 2026, the American College of Greece officially applied, in accordance with Law 5094/2024, for the establishment of Deree, The American University of Greece, as a Legal Entity for University Education.

The academic partnership is carried out in collaboration with Roger Williams University, which holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and is located in Rhode Island, United States. This initiative highlights the American College of Greece’s long-standing commitment to excellence, while enhancing students’ access to internationally recognized studies and new professional opportunities.
Deree University will consist of 3 Schools: Business & Finance, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Science & Technology, which will offer 24 undergraduate and one postgraduate degree programme in its first phase of operation.

The American model of education
At the heart of the American model is the liberal education philosophy, which emphasizes global knowledge. Students are exposed to different fields of knowledge, gain a broader understanding of the world, and cultivate skills that allow them to adapt and evolve in an ever-changing environment. Critical thinking, active participation and the connection between knowledge and practice are central to this experience – elements that will be embodied in the educational philosophy of Deree University.

How it works in practice
The American system of study is organized in a way that combines breadth and depth. A bachelor’s program begins with a core of general education courses, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts. At the same time, each student focuses on his or her major, and often has the opportunity to combine a second specialization (minor), even in a completely different subject – for example, a major in Business Administration and a minor in Psychology.
The program is gradually shaped through the credit system, offering the freedom of choice and personal customization. At the same time, assessment is not limited to a final examination, but is derived through individual or group assignments, projects and case studies throughout the semester.

The main differences from the Greek model

Compared to the traditional Greek model, there are several differences. First, the American model invests substantially in the development of skills required by the modern labor market. Its flexible format even allows for studies to begin without a direct choice of direction (Undeclared Major), while interdisciplinarity facilitates the combination of different subjects.
Through teaching, which is conducted in English, and active participation in student groups and clubs, students cultivate essential skills such as communication, cooperation, and problem solving. The learning process is interactive and participative, boosting confidence, while continuous assessment reduces the pressure of the final exam and helps to deepen understanding of the material.

Studies with a link to the labour market
The connection to the labour market is enhanced through internships and networking, providing valuable experience already during the student years. At the same time, through flexibility in course selection, students have the opportunity to develop a personal academic and professional profile that meets their interests and goals, something that at Deree, The American University of Greece, is further enhanced through close partnerships with international academic and professional institutions.

It is worth mentioning that, at Deree University, academic knowledge bridges the gap with business reality, cultivating both technical and horizontal skills – soft skills. With the continuous support of Career Services and constant contact with the market, Deree ensures that its graduates have all the tools for a successful career from day one. At the same time, everyday life on campus creates the ideal environment for this preparation: modern infrastructure, such as laboratories and libraries, supports learning and research, while the guidance of experienced professors strengthens the link between theory and practice. Campus life is complemented by activities, volunteering, and daily contact with people from different backgrounds, reinforcing the multicultural awareness that is essential today.

Degree recognition in Greece: the new landscape in higher education
In view of the evolution of higher education, the establishment of Deree University takes on particular significance as bachelor’s degrees will be fully integrated into the Greek institutional framework, ensuring academic recognition in the country. In addition, international accreditations, such as AACSB for business administration programs and NECHE, which are held by leading universities internationally, will enhance the prestige of studies and broaden the prospects of graduates.

With more choices, targeted guidance, and strong connections to the professional world, the American model of education, as will now be expressed through Deree University, is shaping the conditions for a more open, dynamic, and holistic educational experience.