Anatolia American University: A New Chapter in Greek Higher Education
Anatolia American University has officially received its operating license in Greece, marking a historic milestone in Anatolia’s legacy. As a non-profit, non-state institution, the university will offer degrees fully equivalent to those awarded by Greek public universities.
This achievement stems from an educational agreement application submitted by The Open University (OU) in the UK and the Trustees of Anatolia, establishing a University Legal Entity (ULE) set to begin operations in the 2025–2026 academic year. It also fulfils a long-standing vision of Anatolia’s Trustees: to create a university that expands educational opportunities for Greek youth.
The founding of Anatolia American University aligns with Greece’s strategic efforts to position itself as a global education hub. It aims to attract international students and reduce the outflow of Greek students seeking higher education abroad. Key goals include the repatriation of Greek academics and the stimulation of regional economic development through investment in human capital and expertise.
Anatolia’s partnership with The Open University—Britain’s largest public research university and a globally ranked institution—brings world-class academic standards to Greece.
"This is a transformative moment for Anatolia and for higher education in Greece," said Dr. Panos Vlachos, President of Anatolia College. "Anatolia American University represents our commitment to academic excellence, international collaboration, and inclusive access to education. We are proud to contribute to Greece’s emergence as a global educational destination and to offer young people the opportunity to thrive in a dynamic, multicultural learning environment.”
Professor Dave Phoenix, Vice-Chancellor of The Open University, added: "The Open University is proud to partner with Anatolia in this pioneering initiative. Together, we are creating a new model of international education that reflects our shared values of access, innovation, and societal impact. By building on our global reputation and Anatolia’s legacy, we aim to deliver a growth strategy that addresses the inequalities of the 21st century and opens doors for students across Greece and beyond.”
Anatolia itself has a rich academic heritage, recognized as a degree-granting institution in the United States since 1894 and accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) since 1997. In collaboration with the OU, Anatolia has developed programs that combine rigorous academic content with essential 21st-century skills. This approach has already made Anatolia a leading destination for American university students, with over 6,000 participants in exchange programs to date.
With its newly granted license, Anatolia American University will offer English-language, state-recognized degree programs across three academic schools:
- School of Business Administration: Business Administration, Entrepreneurial Management, International Business & Finance, Marketing, and Tourism.
- School of Humanities & Social Sciences: English, Political Science & International Relations, and Psychology.
- School of Science & Technology: Business Computing, Computer Science, and Biological Sciences.
The new legislative framework not only equates degrees from non-state universities with those from public institutions but also ensures international students receive qualifications recognized in their home countries. This positions Anatolia to expand its reach both within Greece and across the broader region.
The university’s recruitment strategy focuses on three key student groups:
- Greek students seeking an international academic experience enriched by cultural exchange.
- International students pursuing globally recognized degrees in Greece.
- Visiting students from partner universities, particularly in the U.S. and Europe.
Anatolia has finalized its Campus Master Plan, which includes the construction of four new buildings. The first is scheduled for completion by 2027.
Remaining true to its social mission, Anatolia continues to prioritize access to high-quality education for students with limited financial means. Currently, 30% of its student body receives scholarships or financial aid, with plans to increase this percentage in the coming years.
For more information, visit: anatoliauniversity.gr