Department of English
Mission
The English Department of The American College of Greece has been a core part of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences for many decades. Its research-led studies in English literature and Modern languages prepare students for academic advancement, critical thinking, and professional success in a multicultural world. Besides our undergraduate degrees, we offer a renowned graduate studies program in TESOL that provides real-world, hands-on experiences. Our Department bridges theory and practice, enabling students to address the evolving needs of digitalized workplaces, both nationally and internationally. The English Department has always played an important role in fashioning the identity of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, making meaningful and strategic contributions to the School’s operations and overall ethos. Besides its significant contributions to the College, the Department has had a discernible impact on the Greek as well as the global job market: our graduates have pursued careers in a variety of fields, such as teaching, publishing, editing, translation, journalism, advertising, marketing, public relations, human resources management, consulting, and many others. There has been a high demand for the graduates of our Program for many decades.
Vision
The Faculty members of the English Department have traditionally combined high-quality teaching with research on a wide variety of topics, areas, and disciplines. The Department has always encouraged a symbiotic relation between teaching and research, and this is evident in the breadth, depth, and scope of the projects, in which our members have engaged or are currently engaged. Our Department’s research themes and areas include, but are not limited to, American Literature, English Literature, Minorities’ and Women’s Literature, Culture Studies, Academic Writing and Creative Writing, Literary Theory, Social and Political Theory, the Medical Humanities, Renaissance Studies, 19th-Century Studies, Postmodern and Contemporary Literature, especially fiction, Comparative Literature, Drama Studies, Poetry and Poetics, Ancient Philosophy, Post-colonial and De-colonial Studies, Spatiality and Temporality, Trauma and the Study of Affect, Alterity and Politics, Biopolitics and Power, Education and Pedagogy, the Integration of AI into the Contemporary Classroom, Syntax and Morphology, Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics and Psycholinguistics, the Role of Higher Education in addressing Global Issues, Crisis and Youth, Presentation Skills and Team Coaching, Children’s Literature, Myth, Occultism and Religious Studies, as well as AI and Learning Design. With this kind of variety, our students are always bound to find a field of study that not only piques their interest but also covers their educational and professional needs.
People
The Department currently consists of the following Programs and Areas:
The English Program of The American College of Greece – Deree College consists of two pathways: English and American Literature, and English Literature with Linguistics. The two pathways offer students exposure to a variety of literary texts, cultures, and ways of reading and analyzing, as well as the opportunity to engage in language study through a variety of courses in theoretical and applied linguistics. Students read a wide range of engaging works of fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fictional prose from the U.K. and the U.S. as well as from around the world. Students learn to interpret these works from a variety of theoretical perspectives and develop an understanding of literary history. Emphasizing academic discourse and the research methods of the discipline, the program prepares students for graduate studies. By providing training in a broad range of skills and competencies, the program also prepares students for a variety of professions.
The Writing Program at Deree-ACG is a required three-course sequence which aims at developing student skills in critical thinking through a focus on rigorous practice in reading and writing. After successful completion of WP1010, WP1111 and WP1212, students become effective communicators and critically engaged thinkers in preparation for a diverse and ever-changing social and professional landscape. Through foundational and advanced reading and writing practice, students develop analytical and critical thinking, engaging thoughtfully with diverse perspectives and complex ideas. Comprehensive instruction and support ensure that students develop robust writing skills applicable across genres and disciplines while critically engaging with research practices and findings. In an inclusive and supportive environment, students acquire an understanding of diversity within academic and professional communities, and are equipped with the necessary communication skills for success in their professional lives.
The Modern Languages Area of The American College of Greece – Deree College fosters communicative competence, intercultural literacy and global awareness through immersive language education. It offers courses in French, German, Greek, Italian and Spanish from levels A1 to B1. The program emphasizes the development of communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Furthermore, it empowers students to develop intercultural awareness and hence the ability to use the new language(s) effectively in national and international contexts. It enables students to gain an increased understanding of their own and other cultures thus developing a mindset and skills required for global citizens. Our program prepares students for further language study and equips them with essential skills for international communication. Whether pursuing personal interests or career opportunities, students leave a solid foundation in modern languages, ready for academic advancement or professional success in a multicultural world. Students are also afforded the opportunity to pursue Minors in Modern Languages, Modern Greek Language and Culture, and Modern Greek Studies: from Local to Global, as well as interdisciplinary Minors in Management and Modern Languages and Business Across Cultures, which combine language with business and cultural studies for global readiness.
The MA in TESOL program offers a comprehensive professional development experience for individuals seeking to advance their careers in teaching English to speakers of other languages. The program equips participants with essential theoretical knowledge, professional, and practical skills relevant to teaching and learning of English for speakers of other languages. It enables participants to critically analyze relevant literature and research, apply linguistic concepts, and utilize digital technologies effectively in the classroom. The program offers two tracks—Practicum and Thesis—catering to both newcomers and experienced professionals in the field. Flexible study options, including a blend of online and in-person classes, allow students to complete the program in one to three years. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities, including teaching, academic management, and educational technology, or for pursuing further academic studies.