Al Ain University (AAU) is one of the renowned universities in the UAE. The university is known for its modern facilities, quality education, and academic disciplines. It aims to provide students with a well-rounded learning experience and prepare them for future careers. Explore the wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs Al Ain University offers and learn more about the campus and student life.
- Overview
- Location and Contact
- Academic Programs
- Admission Requirements
- Tuition Fee at Al AIn University
- Student Life At Al Ain University
- Al Ain Library
- AAU Research Strategy and Policies
- Specialised Centres
- FAQs
Overview of Al Ain University
Established in 2004, Al Ain University (AAU) has grown to offer 22 undergraduate programs across six colleges and eight master’s programs. As one of the top universities in the UAE, Al Ain University has two campuses; one in Al Ain and the other in Abu Dhabi, near Dalma Mall. The institution offers programs in fields such as Engineering, Business, Pharmacy, Law, and more.
Additionally, AAU is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education and holds multiple international accreditations, including:
- ABET for Engineering
- ACPE for Pharmacy
- AACSB for Business
- AQAS for Mass Communication
Location and Contact of Al Ain Campuses
Al Ain University welcomed its first student cohort in 2004 at the Al Ain Campus. It expanded its facilities to another campus in central Abu Dhabi in 2008. The address and contact details of both campuses are as follows:
Locations
Al Ain Campus: Al Jimi, Near Al Ain Municipality, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi Campus: Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Contact
Toll-Free: 800 22864
Al Ain Campus: +971 3 702 4888
Abu Dhabi Campus: +971 2 613 3555
Academic Programs at Al Ain University
The Six colleges of Al Ain University provide a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees for higher education in the UAE. Each program is designed to equip students with the skills needed for both local and international job markets, addressing the latest industry demands. Below is a summary of the primary academic programs that the university offers:
1. College of Engineering
The College of Engineering at Al Ain University provides students with an in-depth understanding of modern engineering disciplines. It emphasises practical experience through hands-on projects and lab work, preparing graduates to meet industry demands.
Undergraduate Programs
- Civil Engineering
- Cyber Security
- Software Engineering
- Networks and Communications Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
2. College of Law
Al Ain University’s College of Law delivers comprehensive education on international law and UAE legal systems. The curriculum balances theory with practical applications, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in various legal sectors.
Undergraduate Program
- Bachelors Law
Graduate Programs
- Master of Public Law
- Master of Criminal Law
- Master of Private Law
3. College of Pharmacy
The College of Pharmacy offers advanced education in pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare, preparing students for roles in hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical companies. The program combines classroom learning with lab-based training to ensure graduates are equipped for professional practice.
Undergraduate Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy
- Bachelors of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Graduate Programs
- Masters of Science in Clinical Pharmacy
- Masters of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Training Program for Students
Practical lab sessions and training programs expose students to real-world pharmaceutical challenges, making them job-ready upon graduation.
4. College of Business
Al Ain University’s College of Business develops future business leaders through a well-rounded curriculum that covers management, entrepreneurship, and business strategies. Students gain the skills needed to excel in dynamic business environments, with a focus on critical thinking and innovation.
Undergraduate Programs
- BBA in Marketing
- BBA in Human Resources
- BBA in Accounting
- BBA in Finance & Banking
- BBA in HR Management
- BBA in Management Information Systems
Graduate Program
Master of Business Administration
5. College of Education Humanities and Sciences
This college prepares students for noble employment opportunities in social work, teaching and counselling. With a focus on specialised fields like special education and applied sociology, graduates are equipped to make a positive impact in society.
Undergraduate Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Applied Sociology
- Bachelor of Arts in Applied Phycology
- Bachelor of Education in Special Education
- Bachelors in Arabic Language and Literature
- Bachelor in Islamic Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Translation
Graduate Programs
- Master of Education in Arabic Language Curricula and Instruction
- Master of Education in Islamic Curricula and Instruction
- Postgraduate Professional Diploma in Teaching
6. College of Communication and Media
The College of Communication and Media at Al Ain University provides a strong foundation in media studies, covering areas like broadcasting, digital content development and communication strategies. Graduates are prepared to take on roles in various media industries, equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Undergraduate Program
Bachelor of Mass Communication and Media
Admission Requirements
To gain admission to undergraduate and graduate programs at Al Ain University, students must meet specific academic and language proficiency criteria.
Undergraduate Programs
Below are the general admission requirements applicable to all undergraduate applicants.
UAE Secondary School Certificate (Science/Advanced, General or Elite)
Equivalent approved by the UAE Ministry of Education with the following minimum averages:
- 80% for Science/Advanced track
- 90% for General track
- 75% for Elite track
English Language Proficiency
A valid certificate with the following minimum scores:
- EmSAT: 1100
- TOEFL ITP: 500
- IELTS Academic: 5
Math and Science Proficiency (Specific to some programs)
- Pass EmSAT Math with a score of 800 or higher
- Pass EmSAT in Science subjects (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Physics) with a score of 800 or higher
Subject-Specific Requirements
Students must meet proficiency in related subjects via one of the following:
- EmSAT Achieve Test scores in the relevant subject
- Equivalent Ministry-approved proficiency test scores
- Passing grades in relevant subjects from centralized exam systems (e.g., British, American, IB, UAE systems)
Remedial Courses
If students do not meet the required proficiency scores or grades, they must enrol in a 3-hour remedial course in the subject during the first semester, which will not count towards their cumulative GPA.
Graduate Programs
Bachelor’s Degree
A recognized Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 or its equivalent.
English Proficiency
A valid English Language Proficiency certificate is required. Accepted scores include:
- EmSAT: 1400
- TOEFL ITP: 550
- IELTS Academic: 6.0
Applicants with scores below these thresholds may be eligible for conditional admission, with specific requirements to meet within their first semester.
Conditional Admission
Applicants with a GPA of 2.5 to 2.99 or an English proficiency score of IELTS 5.5, TOEFL 530, or EmSAT 1250 may be admitted conditionally. They must:
- Register for a maximum of 9 credit hours during the conditional acceptance period.
- Achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their first semester to remain in the program.
- Applicants with a GPA between 2.0 to 2.49 may be required to complete remedial courses before progressing.
Required Documents
Applications for college programs at Al Ain University must be submitted with the completed admission form and the required paperwork. The general document requirements are as follows:
- The Ministry of Education-certified UAE Secondary School Certificate (Arts/General or Science/Advanced) or equivalent.
- Academic transcripts from all institutions attended.
- An equivalent certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education if they are foreign nationals.
- Authentic certificate of proficiency in the English language according to specialisation requirements.
- A valid passport copy.
- A valid Emirates ID.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Health Certificate.
- A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals for Graduate programs.
- Two letters of recommendation for Graduate programs.
General University Education
All AAU undergraduate students must enrol in 33 credit hours of General University Education (GUE) courses. The goal of these courses split into 6 optional credit hours and 27 required credit hours, is to build the fundamental knowledge and abilities needed for professional and academic success.
Scholarships and Humanitarian Aid
The institution offers humanitarian help to students who are struggling financially while earning their first degree. It also offers scholarships to recognise academic and nonacademic brilliance.
Tuition Fee at Al Ain University
Depending on the college and campus, the tuition costs at Al Ain University are as follows:
- For undergraduate program: The fee ranges from AED 1,200 to AED 1,800.
- For graduate programs: The fee ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000.
- Programs at the College of Law: The fees start from AED 1,400.
- MBA Fees: AED 2,500.
- College of Pharmacy: The fees start from AED 1,700.
Student Life At Al Ain University
Creating an atmosphere that is fun, stimulating and supportive for students is a priority for Al Ain University. Students have access to various resources, organisations and extracurricular activities at both Al Ain and Abu Dhabi campuses.
1. Clubs and Activities for Students
The institution encourages multiple clubs for students, such as athletics, arts and culture, to build interests, friendships and leadership abilities.
2. Festivals and Cultural Events
AAU showcases the unique background of its students via activities like art exhibitions and cultural festivals.
3. Sports and Health
Students participate in regular campus and tournament events in modern sports facilities.
4. Community Involvement
The institution encourages social responsibility by organising outreach activities and charitable events.
5. Internships and Career Services
AAU assists students in preparing for professions after graduation by offering networking opportunities, internships, and career assistance.
Al Ain University Library
A vast library offers computerised services through MEDAD and over 98,000 materials, including databases, books, and journals. Both campuses provide contemporary study areas, Wi-Fi, discussion rooms, and access to research computers.
Library Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 08:00 – 06:30
- Friday: 08:00 – 12:00
- Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
AAU Research Strategy and Policies
The university ensures ethical standards and supports faculty and student involvement in multidisciplinary research. It also provides funds, cooperation and time allocation to foster high-quality research. Academicians can get their work published in reputed journals which can further help in their hiring, promotion and workload decisions.
Specialised Centres at Al Ain University
AAU is home to several specialised centres designed to improve professional development, research and teaching in many subjects. Some of them are:
- Information Technology Centre
- English Language Centre
- Quality Assurance & Institutional Research Centre
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre
- Computer Based Testing Centre
- Artificial Intelligence Research Centre
- Health and Biomedical Research Centre
FAQs
According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings, Al Ain University is placed 5th in the UAE and 19th among the top 30 Arab universities worldwide. It is ranked in the range of 601-650 globally as well.
Al Ain University is a private institution. It is regarded as one of the best private universities in the Emirates.
Al Ain University should be on your radar if you’re thinking about pursuing higher education in the UAE. Aspiring students should strongly consider it because of its cutting-edge teaching methods, dedication to their achievement, and strategic location in the capital of the UAE. Get enrolled today for your higher education by applying online on the university’s official website.
You can also check out this detailed guide on education in the UAE to learn more about its educational system.
