The Open University Partners with Anatolia to Launch Anatolia American University in Greece

Posted on 11 September 2025 • University news

The Open University (OU) is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Anatolia College in the establishment of Anatolia American University, a newly licensed non-profit, non-state university in Greece.

This milestone marks a significant advancement in international education and reflects the OU’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality learning across borders.

The university, set to begin operations in the 2025–2026 academic year, was made possible through an educational agreement application submitted by The Open University and the Trustees of Anatolia.

This collaboration has led to the creation of a University Legal Entity (ULE) in Greece, enabling Anatolia American University to offer degrees fully equivalent to those awarded by Greek public universities.

Professor Dave Phoenix, Vice-Chancellor of The Open University, commented:
“This is a pioneering initiative that exemplifies our mission to make education accessible, inclusive, and globally impactful. Partnering with Anatolia allows us to bring our academic excellence and innovation to Greece, supporting a new model of international education that addresses the challenges of the 21st century and opens doors for students across Europe and beyond.”

The founding of Anatolia American University aligns with Greece’s national strategy to become a global education hub. It aims to attract international students, retain domestic talent, and repatriate Greek academics, while contributing to regional economic development through investment in human capital.

The OU is the largest academic institution in the UK and a world leader in flexible distance learning.  It has decades of expertise in distance learning, flexible education, and research-led teaching.

This partnership builds on a shared vision with Anatolia to deliver rigorous academic programmes enriched with 21st-century skills and global perspectives. Academic Offerings and Vision

Anatolia American University will offer English-language, state-recognised degree programmes across three academic schools:

• School of Business Administration: Business Administration, Entrepreneurial Management, International Business and Finance, Marketing, and Tourism.
• School of Humanities and Social Sciences: English, Political Science and International Relations, and Psychology.
• School of Science and Technology: Business Computing, Computer Science, and Biological Sciences.

The university’s recruitment strategy will focus on:

1. Greek students seeking an international academic experience.
2. International students pursuing globally recognised degrees in Greece.
3. Visiting students from partner universities, particularly in the US and Europe.

Commitment to Access and Inclusion

Remaining true to its social mission, Anatolia—supported by The Open University—will continue to prioritise access to education for students with limited financial means. Currently, 30% of Anatolia’s student body receives scholarships or financial aid, with plans to expand this support.

Infrastructure and Growth

Anatolia has finalised its Campus Master Plan, which includes the construction of four new buildings, with the first scheduled for completion by 2027. This investment reflects a long-term commitment to creating a vibrant, multicultural learning environment.

For more information, visit: www.anatoliauniversity.gr