American University of Sharjah

Overview

​American University of Sharjah (AUS), founded in 1997 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, is an independent, non-profit, coeducational institution of higher education. Located in University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, AUS is consciously based on American models of higher education while being firmly rooted in Arab culture.

The university provides 33 majors and 46 minors at the undergraduate level, 18 master's degree programs, and five PhD programs. ​

Campus and Facilities

The AUS campus spans 128 hectares (316 acres) in University City, approximately 16 kilometers from the center of Sharjah City and about 25 kilometers from Dubai. The campus features 12 academic buildings housing classrooms, lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, digital studios, and offices. Additionally, it includes student residential halls and a large sports complex.

Student Body and Diversity

AUS has a total enrollment of approximately 5,198 students, with undergraduates numbering around 4,593 and postgraduates about 519. The student body represents more than 90 nationalities, reflecting the university's commitment to cultural diversity and inclusiveness. ​

Accreditation and Recognition

The university is licensed by the Commission for Academic Accreditation of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the UAE. It is also accredited in the United States by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Notably, the Bachelor of Architecture program became the first outside North America to receive accreditation from the US National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) in 2010. ​