Greek Universities Overview
Greece is home to over 20 universities, all of which operate within the public sector and are spread across the country. While the primary language of instruction is Greek, there are specialized programs available in other languages, particularly English, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. In addition to universities, Greece also has 15 Technological Educational Institutes (TEIs) that focus on providing practical and professional skills in fields such as applied technology, healthcare, agriculture, management, and art and design. Greece's higher education system holds a strong reputation globally, ranking 41st in the world in the inaugural QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings.
Among Greek universities, six are included in the QS World University Rankings 2021, with three standing out for their academic excellence and historical significance.
National Technical University of Athens (NTUA)
The National Technical University of Athens is Greece's highest-ranked university, positioned at joint 477th in the QS World University Rankings 2021. Established in 1837, it is also one of the oldest institutions in the country. With approximately 23,900 students enrolled, NTUA offers five-year programs leading to a diploma equivalent to a Master in Engineering or Science. Its nine academic schools cover various engineering disciplines, as well as architecture and applied mathematics and physics. While courses are primarily taught in Greek, students participating in the Erasmus exchange program can complete projects in English. NTUA's campuses are located in the vibrant and historic capital city of Athens.
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH)
The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is the largest university in Greece and one of the largest in southeastern Europe. Founded in 1925 and named after the ancient philosopher Aristotle, the university is ranked 571-580 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2021. Its main campus is located in the heart of Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city and a popular destination for visitors. AUTH offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with most courses delivered in Greek.
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Also ranked among the world's top 700 universities is the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Commonly referred to as the University of Athens, it was established in 1837, making it the oldest university in Greece. With approximately 125,000 students, the university offers programs across diverse fields, including law, languages, health sciences, philosophy, political science, and natural sciences. Its four main campuses are situated in different neighborhoods of Athens.
Other Greek universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2021 include the University of Crete, the University of Patras, and Athens University of Economics and Business.
In addition to public institutions, Greece also hosts several private colleges. Notable among these is the American College of Greece, which encompasses Alba Graduate Business School and Deree - The American College of Greece. These private institutions provide alternative educational opportunities with a focus on international curricula and English-language instruction.
Overall, Greece's higher education system offers a blend of academic rigor, cultural heritage, and diverse learning opportunities, making it an appealing destination for both local and international students.
