Bachelor in Self-Designed Major

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and tuition fees are 15,941 USD per year.

The Self-Designed Major at the American University in Bulgaria allows students to create a personalized academic path tailored to their interests and career goals. This program is ideal for students who thrive in a flexible learning environment and seek to explore interdisciplinary studies. With a duration of three years, this bachelor’s degree offers a unique opportunity to combine various fields of study.

Students in this program can choose courses from different disciplines, enabling them to build a curriculum that reflects their passions and aspirations. This approach not only enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also prepares students for a dynamic job market. Internships and practical projects are often integrated, providing hands-on experience that is invaluable in today’s economy.

Graduates of the Self-Designed Major can pursue diverse career paths, including roles such as Project Manager, Marketing Specialist, Policy Analyst, and Entrepreneur. They are equipped with transferable skills that are applicable in various industries, including business, education, and non-profit sectors. This program fosters adaptability and creativity, essential traits for success in any field.

American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) is a private, American-style liberal arts university located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. It offers a globally oriented education that combines U.S.-accredited academic standards with a diverse international community. AUBG prepares students for successful careers and leadership roles through critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and a strong residential campus experience.

You will earn a dual US and EU degree while living in a tight-knit community where half your classmates come from over fifty different countries. This liberal arts university lets you pair majors to build a custom career path. Blagoevgrad offers you a low cost of living and quick access to major European hubs like Sofia and Thessaloniki.

History of AUBG

AUBG was founded in 1991 as the first American-style liberal arts university in Eastern Europe. It was created during a major period of political and social transition in Bulgaria, when there was a strong need for new educational models that supported democracy, civic engagement, and market-oriented skills.

The university was established through a partnership involving the U.S. and Bulgarian governments, the Open Society Institute, the City of Blagoevgrad, and the University of Maine. Its goal was to provide students in the region with an alternative to traditional state education—one that was taught in English and aligned with international academic standards.

When AUBG opened its doors in 1991, it began with a small cohort of students and faculty, but it quickly expanded into a diverse international institution. Today, it educates students from over 40 countries and has produced thousands of alumni working across Europe and the world in business, public service, academia, and entrepreneurship.

Mission of AUBG

The university’s mission has remained consistent in spirit since its founding, even as it has been refined over time. It centers on education, leadership, and service.

A widely cited official version of the mission states that AUBG aims:

“to educate students of outstanding potential in a community of academic excellence, diversity, and respect and to prepare them for democratic and ethical leadership in serving the needs of the region and the world.”

In simpler terms, the mission focuses on:

• Providing high-quality liberal arts education
• Building a diverse and inclusive academic community
• Developing ethical leaders
• Encouraging service to society and global engagement

Values of AUBG

AUBG’s values are closely tied to its liberal arts identity and its role in a transitioning democratic region. The core values consistently emphasized include:

Academic Excellence

AUBG promotes rigorous education with small class sizes, close interaction with professors, and a curriculum that encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.

Diversity and Inclusion

The university brings together students and faculty from dozens of countries, creating a multicultural environment where different perspectives are actively valued.

Democratic Values

A central pillar of AUBG is commitment to democracy, freedom of expression, civic responsibility, and ethical leadership. These principles are embedded in both teaching and campus life.

Liberal Arts Philosophy

AUBG follows a U.S.-style liberal arts model, encouraging students to explore multiple disciplines, think critically, and develop broad intellectual and professional skills rather than narrow specialization.

Leadership and Service

The university emphasizes preparing students not only for careers, but also for leadership roles and meaningful contributions to society.

Global Outlook

With its international faculty, English-language instruction, and global alumni network, AUBG positions itself as a bridge between Europe, the U.S., and the wider world.

AUBG was founded as a transformative educational project in post-communist Bulgaria. Its mission is to develop ethical, globally minded leaders through a liberal arts education rooted in academic excellence, diversity, and democratic values. Its identity today continues to reflect that original vision while expanding its international reach and academic offerings.