A new era begins for The American College of Greece—and for higher education in Greece
With immense pride, deep gratitude, and a profound sense of responsibility, The American College of Greece announces that Deree, The American University of Greece, was granted an establishment and operating license as a University Legal Entity on July 24, 2026, in accordance with Law 5094/2024.
The decision marks one of the most significant milestones in the history of The American College of Greece. It formally brings Deree’s American academic model into Greece’s regulated university framework and creates new opportunities for students to pursue internationally oriented, state-recognized university education in Greece.
For ACG—the oldest and largest non-profit educational institution with American accreditation in Europe—this achievement represents the natural continuation of a mission that began in 1875: to provide high-quality education, broaden access to opportunity, and prepare students to contribute meaningfully to society.
A Vision Realized
The American College of Greece submitted its application for the establishment and operation of Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E. on February 26, 2026, in collaboration with Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, USA.
Following extensive academic, institutional, and administrative work, the granting of the license opens a new phase of growth for ACG. Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E., will offer state-recognized university education while preserving the international outlook, student-centered philosophy, academic rigor, and high standards that have defined Deree for generations.
Edward C. Wingenbach, PhD, President of The American College of Greece, stated:
The licensing of Deree, The American University of Greece as a University Legal Entity marks a historic milestone for The American College of Greece and crowns a journey spanning 151 years—a journey defined by dedication to academic excellence and expanding access to education. This new chapter further strengthens our mission to empower young people to thrive within a dynamic, diverse, and internationally oriented learning environment while creating even greater opportunities for Greece’s standing as a global educational destination.
American University Education in Greece
The partnership with Roger Williams University is central to the academic foundation of Deree University U.L.E. and supports the delivery of American university education within the framework of Greek legislation.
Roger Williams University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, while its Mario J. Gabelli School of Business holds accreditation from the internationally recognized Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Through this partnership, students will have the opportunity to study in Greece and earn degrees awarded by an American university under the country’s new regulatory framework for non-state higher education.
Brian Williams, PhD, Interim President of Roger Williams University, commented:
Our partnership with The American College of Greece is built on shared values, including academic excellence, innovation, and preparing students for an ever-changing world. The licensing of Deree, The American University of Greece marks an important new chapter in our collaboration, and we look forward to contributing to the delivery of outstanding American university education in Greece with a global perspective and meaningful impact for students and society.
Three Schools and a Broad Academic Offering
During its initial phase of operation, Deree University U.L.E. will comprise three Schools:
- School of Business and Economics
- School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- School of Science and Technology
The three Schools have applied to offer 24 undergraduate degree programs and one graduate degree program across business, economics, communication, the social sciences, technology, computing, the arts, and the humanities.
Designed in the tradition of American higher education, the programs emphasize interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, experiential education, research, innovation, and strong connections with the labor market. At the same time, they preserve Deree’s distinctive educational approach, enabling students to develop expertise in their chosen field while gaining the broader perspective, judgment, and adaptability needed to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Expanding Access and Ensuring Continuity
Consistent with its non-profit mission, Deree University U.L.E. will continue to invest in scholarships and financial assistance, recognizing academic excellence and expanding access to high-quality education.
The establishment of the new University also fully ensures the continuity of Deree’s existing academic activities. Current Deree students will complete their studies under the programs in which they are already enrolled, while existing academic programs will continue without interruption or modification.
The new University will welcome its first cohort of students in accordance with the provisions of the new legislative framework, marking the beginning of a new phase of institutional growth while preserving the academic stability and continuity that have long characterized ACG.
A Future Shaped by Education
The granting of the establishment and operating license is not only a defining achievement for The American College of Greece; it is also a renewed commitment to the students, families, educators, and communities it serves.
Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E. will broaden the range of university study options available in Greece, strengthen the country’s connections with the international academic community, and create new pathways for students seeking a rigorous, globally minded, and transformative educational experience.
ACG enters this new era with humility before the responsibility it carries, gratitude to every person who helped make this moment possible, and confidence in the promise of what comes next.
If you would like to learn more about Deree University U.L.E., please visit our website here.