American University of Sharjah (AUS) Summary
AUS is particularly suitable for students seeking an American style of education in the UAE. Its academic model integrates major-specific study with general education, communication skills, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, exposure to the humanities and professional preparation. This distinguishes the university from those that train students for a narrow technical discipline. At AUS, an engineering student doesn’t only take technical courses, but also partakes in communication, ethics, teamwork and broader academic development. The business student learns finance, accounting, management or marketing, but also analytical thinking, writing, technology use and global business awareness. Design or architecture student develops studio practice, creative thinking, portfolio work and professional presentation ability.
At the undergraduate level, AUS offers bachelor’s degrees in architecture, interior design, economics, English, international studies, media communication, psychology, biology, business administration, accounting, finance, management, marketing, supply chain management, information systems and business analytics, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, computer science, data science, design management, digital construction engineering and management, electrical engineering, environmental sciences, film and new media design, graphic design, industrial engineering, mathematics, mechanical engineering, physics and other professional areas. AUS’s official majors page lists its undergraduate majors separately from graduate and doctoral programs, which makes the academic structure clear for students applying after high school.
At the postgraduate level, AUS offers master’s programs in international studies, media studies and practice, TESOL, translation, business administration, business data analytics, trans-disciplinary design, accounting, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, construction management, data analytics engineering, economics and policy, electrical engineering, engineering systems management, environmental sustainability and management, finance, machine learning and mathematics. These programs are designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree and want to receive advanced professional, academic or technical training.
AUS has some PhD programs at the doctoral level including civil and environmental engineering, biosciences and bioengineering, electrical and computer engineering, engineering systems management, finance, management, materials science and engineering and mathematics. These are listed separately on AUS’s official doctoral program page so PhD pathways should not be confused with master’s programs.
The university is also strong on visibility in rankings. American University of Sharjah is one of the top private universities in Sharjah and is ranked #=272 in QS World University Rankings 2026. This ranking visibility, together with AUS’s American-style curriculum and strong professional programs, makes it attractive for students from the UAE, India, the GCC and wider international markets.
Fees at AUS are listed in AED. Undergraduate Tuition (all majors) 2026-2027 AED 55,438 per semester or AED 110,876 per year for 12 to 16 credits Lab/Technology Fees and Student Activity Fees are charged separately where applicable. Graduate tuition is listed by credit hour, with many master’s programs charged at AED 5,480 per credit hour. Tuition for doctoral programs is also listed separately by PhD program. In general, AUS is suitable for students who want a top-ranked university in the UAE with American-style education, strong English-medium programs, challenging academics and career options in engineering, business, architecture, design, computing, media, research and professional fields.
About American University of Sharjah (AUS)
AUS is known for its fine balance between professional education and broad academic development. Students are trained for careers but they are also expected to develop communication skills, critical thinking, teamwork, ethical awareness and world understanding. It is especially helpful for students who want a little more than a technical degree. Engineering students can build strong quantitative and design skills while learning how to solve real-world problems. Business students can prepare for careers in finance, analytics, marketing, accounting, and management and entrepreneurship. Students of architecture and design can build studio-based portfolios. Students in the arts and sciences can pursue studies in humanities, media, psychology, international studies, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, environmental sciences and related areas.
Its campus environment is also a major part of its identity. AUS is located in University City, one of Sharjah’s key educational hubs. The campus is built to support academic life, student activities, labs, studios, libraries, research spaces, sports, housing and community engagement. The university has a large number of overseas students, which helps to create a multicultural learning environment.
AUS is also known for academic quality and accreditation. It has a good institutional recognition and offers degrees that would be useful for students who may want to work in the UAE, the GCC or internationally. Its professional programs in engineering, business, architecture, design, communication and computing are especially relevant for modern job markets.
AUS is ideal for students seeking a structured English-language, American-style university experience in the UAE. It is particularly strong for students planning careers in engineering, architecture, design, business, analytics, computing, media, research, education, consulting, policy, technology and creative industries.
American University of Sharjah (AUS) History
American University of Sharjah was founded in 1997.
It was founded by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.
The first day of classes was October 4, 1997.
AUS began with 285 students and 30 faculty members on its first day of classes.
The university was created as an American-style institution for the Gulf region.
AUS developed as an independent, not-for-profit, coeducational university.
It expanded academic programs across architecture, arts, sciences, engineering and business.
It became licensed by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in 1998.
The university developed a strong international student community over time.
AUS strengthened graduate education with master’s programs across business, engineering, arts, sciences and design.
AUS expanded doctoral education with selected PhD programs in engineering, sciences, mathematics, finance and management.
The university became one of the UAE’s most visible private universities in international rankings.
AUS is now recognized as a leading American-style university in the Gulf region.
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Highlights
Founded in 1997
Located in University City, Sharjah
Independent, not-for-profit, coeducational university
American-style liberal arts education model
Founded by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi
Strong for engineering, architecture, design, business, computing, media, sciences and humanities
Offers UG, PG and PhD programs separately
Undergraduate tuition is AED 110,876 per year for all majors in 2026–2027
Many graduate programs are charged at AED 5,480 per credit hour
Selected PhD programs are available in engineering, sciences, mathematics, finance and management
Medium of instruction is English
Ranked #=272 in QS World University Rankings 2026
Suitable for UAE, GCC and international students
Strong multicultural campus environment
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Courses Offered
| UG Courses Offered | PG Courses Offered | PhD Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Specialisations Offered
| UG Course Specialisations | PG Course Specialisations | PhD Specialisations |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture and Interior Design
Arts and Humanities
Economics and Business Administration
Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences
Engineering
Computer Science and Data Fields
Design, Film and New Media
Mathematics and Physics
|
Arts and Communication Master’s Programs
Business Master’s Programs
Design Master’s Programs
Engineering Master’s Programs
Science and Sustainability Master’s Programs
|
Civil and Environmental Engineering Doctoral Study
Biosciences and Bioengineering Doctoral Study
Electrical and Computer Engineering Doctoral Study
Engineering Systems Management Doctoral Study
Finance Doctoral Study
Management Doctoral Study
Materials Science and Engineering Doctoral Study
Mathematics Doctoral Study
|
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Admission Process
Select the correct study level: UG, PG or PhD.
Choose the intended AUS college or school.
Select the exact program.
Review academic entry requirements.
Review English language requirements.
Prepare academic transcripts and certificates.
Prepare passport or identity documents.
Submit standardized test results if required by the admission route.
Submit English language test scores if required.
Submit portfolio or creative work for design-related programs if required.
Submit CV, statement of purpose, references or research documents for graduate and doctoral programs if required.
Complete the official online application.
Pay the application fee.
Track the application through the official admission system.
Accept the offer if selected.
Complete tuition payment, visa, housing and enrollment steps.
Admission Details
Undergraduate applicants apply through the bachelor’s degree admission route.
Graduate applicants apply through the master’s degree admission route.
Doctoral applicants apply through the doctoral degree admission route.
Graduate application fee is AED 450 + 5% VAT.
Student activity fees apply separately where listed.
Lab and technology fees may apply depending on registered courses.
Fees are published in AED and may change by academic year.
Students should check whether their program requires a portfolio, interview, prerequisite coursework or additional documents.
International students should apply early because visa processing, housing, fee payment and document verification can take time.
Final tuition and admission rules should always be confirmed on the official AUS pages before applying.
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Courses Fees
All Undergraduate Majors
Tuition Fee: AED 55,438 per semester for 12 to 16 credits
Annual Tuition Fee: AED 110,876 per year
Lab/Technology Fee Type A: AED 1,552 per course where applicable
Lab/Technology Fee Type B: AED 1,700 per course where applicable
Student Activities Fee: AED 422 + 5% VAT per semester
Duration: Usually 4 Years for most bachelor’s programs; Bachelor of Architecture may follow a longer professional structure depending on curriculum
Eligibility: Recognized high school qualification or equivalent; English language proficiency and program-specific requirements apply
Admission Mode: AUS Undergraduate Admission Route
PG Fees
Arts and Sciences Master’s Programs
Approx Fee: AED 5,480 per credit hour for many current graduate programs where listed
Example Program Length: 30 credits for many master’s programs
Approx Total Fee: Around AED 164,400 for 30-credit programs where the AED 5,480 rate applies
Duration: Usually 1–2 Years depending on study load and program
Eligibility: Recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; English language proficiency required
Admission Mode: AUS Graduate Admission Route
Business Master’s Programs
MBA Tuition: AED 5,480 per credit hour
MBA Required Credits: 33
MBA Total Tuition: AED 180,840
Master of Business Data Analytics Total Tuition: AED 164,400 for 30 credits
Master of Science in Accounting Total Tuition: AED 164,400 for 30 credits
Master of Science in Finance Total Tuition: AED 164,400 for 30 credits
Master of Science in Economics and Policy Total Tuition: AED 164,400 for 30 credits
Duration: Usually 1–2 Years depending on study load
Eligibility: Recognized bachelor’s degree; professional experience may strengthen MBA applicants
Admission Mode: AUS Graduate Admission Route
Engineering Master’s Programs
Approx Fee: AED 5,480 per credit hour for many graduate programs where listed
Approx Total Fee: Around AED 164,400 for 30-credit programs where the AED 5,480 rate applies
Duration: Usually 1–2 Years depending on program and thesis/project route
Eligibility: Recognized bachelor’s degree in engineering, computing, science or a related technical field
Admission Mode: AUS Graduate Admission Route
Design Master’s Programs
Approx Fee: AED 5,480 per credit hour where current graduate rate applies
Approx Total Fee: Varies by required credits and studio structure
Duration: Usually 1–2 Years depending on program
Eligibility: Recognized bachelor’s degree; portfolio or design background may be required
Admission Mode: AUS Graduate Admission Route
PhD / Doctoral Fees
Engineering and Science PhD Programs
Tuition Fee: AED 5,480 per credit hour
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering: 54 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 295,920
PhD in Biosciences and Bioengineering: 54 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 295,920
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering: 54 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 295,920
PhD in Materials Science and Engineering: 54 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 295,920
PhD in Mathematics: 54 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 295,920
Duration: Usually 3–5 Years depending on research progress
Eligibility: Recognized master’s degree or approved academic background; research fit required
Admission Mode: AUS Doctoral Admission Route
Business PhD Programs
Tuition Fee: AED 5,480 per credit hour
PhD in Finance: 60 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 328,800
PhD in Management: 60 minimum credit hours; total tuition AED 328,800
Duration: Usually 3–5 Years depending on research progress
Eligibility: Recognized master’s degree or approved academic background in business, finance, management or related field; research readiness required
Admission Mode: AUS Doctoral Admission Route
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Scholarships
AUS offers financial grants and scholarships for eligible students.
Scholarship and grant options may depend on academic merit, financial need, student category, program level and university policy.
Undergraduate students may be considered for merit-based awards or financial grants depending on eligibility.
Graduate students may explore assistantships, scholarships or financial support depending on program availability.
Some support options may require separate applications and deadlines.
Scholarship approval is not automatic after admission.
Students should prepare academic records, personal statements, financial documents or supporting evidence where required.
Funding availability can change by academic year and program.
Students should check official AUS scholarship and financial grant pages before applying.
A strong scholarship profile should show academic strength, leadership, motivation, financial need where applicable and clear program fit.
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Carrer Outcomes
AUS graduates can build careers across the UAE, GCC region and global markets.
Architecture and design graduates can work in architecture firms, interior design, urban design, construction documentation, creative studios and design consultancies.
Business graduates can pursue accounting, finance, economics, analytics, marketing, management, supply chain, consulting, banking and entrepreneurship roles.
Engineering graduates can work in civil infrastructure, construction, chemical industries, electrical systems, mechanical systems, industrial operations, digital construction and mechatronics.
Computer science and computer engineering graduates can enter software development, data science, cybersecurity, cloud systems, networks, AI, machine learning and digital transformation roles.
Arts and sciences graduates can pursue media, communication, international affairs, education, research, policy, psychology-related fields, environmental work and analytical roles.
Data science graduates can work in analytics, AI, business intelligence, data engineering and technology consulting.
Environmental sciences graduates can work in sustainability, environmental management, conservation, ESG support and environmental research.
Master’s graduates can move into advanced professional, leadership, technical or research-based roles.
PhD graduates can pursue academia, advanced research, consulting, industry research, policy analysis and specialist leadership roles.
American University of Sharjah (AUS) Important Links
Official Website: https://www.aus.edu
History of AUS: https://www.aus.edu/about/aus-at-a-glance/the-history-of-aus
Facts and Figures: https://www.aus.edu/about/aus-at-a-glance/facts-figures
Undergraduate Programs: https://www.aus.edu/programs/majors-minors
Bachelor’s Admissions: https://www.aus.edu/admissions/bachelors-degrees
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: https://www.aus.edu/admissions/bachelors-degrees/undergraduate-tuition-and-fees
Master’s Programs: https://www.aus.edu/programs/master
Graduate Tuition and Fees: https://www.aus.edu/admissions/masters-degrees/graduate-tuition-and-fees
Doctoral Programs: https://www.aus.edu/programs/doctor
Doctoral Tuition and Fees: https://www.aus.edu/admissions/doctoral-degrees/tuition-and-fees
Financial Grants and Scholarships: https://www.aus.edu/admissions/financial-grants-and-scholarships
Contact AUS: https://www.aus.edu/contact
