Overview: American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut (AUB), founded in 1866, is a private, nonsectarian, and comprehensive university located in Beirut, Lebanon. With a longstanding tradition as one of the Middle East’s premier academic institutions, AUB is research-intensive with a strong teaching focus. Its urban campus overlooks the Mediterranean Sea in central Beirut and hosts approximately 7,000 students from over 75 countries. AUB comprises six faculties, including a distinguished medical center, and supports a vibrant academic community in the region.
Academic Strengths and Structure
AUB is internationally recognized for its excellence in engineering, medicine, public health, agriculture, business, and the humanities. The university follows a liberal arts educational model, emphasizing critical inquiry, interdisciplinary learning, and leadership development. Research at AUB is robust, with faculty and students producing high-impact publications and participating in over 90 externally funded projects annually. The university consistently ranks among the top 250 global universities in the QS World University Rankings and is a member of key academic consortia. Collaborative degree programs and research partnerships with leading international institutions further underscore its commitment to global academic engagement.
Student Life and Community
AUB’s 61-acre green campus offers a dynamic student life, featuring more than 60 clubs and societies, frequent cultural festivals, and an array of student support services. The university’s diverse and inclusive environment fosters dialogue across backgrounds, with more than one-third of students being international or dual citizens. Modern on-campus housing, state-of-the-art sports facilities, vibrant arts initiatives, and robust wellness programs contribute to a holistic educational experience. Students benefit from leadership opportunities, service-learning projects, and exposure to a cosmopolitan city enriching their university journey.
Mission, Vision, and Values
AUB is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and promoting social responsibility, with a commitment to innovation, sustainability, equity, and global citizenship. It strives to empower graduates as leaders who can positively impact their communities and the world.
