The American University of Sharjah sprawls across University City in Sharjah, UAE, offering a self-contained academic experience with American-accredited programs in engineering, business, arts, and sciences. You’ll find world-class laboratories, student residences, sports facilities, and landscaped green spaces throughout the campus. If you’re considering higher education in the UAE, AUS consistently ranks among the region’s top institutions.
What Makes the American University of Sharjah Campus Unique?
AUS occupies a distinctive space in Middle Eastern higher education. It blends an American liberal arts approach with meaningful regional engagement, creating an environment that stands apart in the Gulf.
- Accreditation: AUS holds institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), one of the most respected US accreditation bodies. Individual programs carry additional accreditations from AACSB, ABET, NAAB, and ACEJMC.
- Enrollment diversity: The university welcomes students from over 90 nationalities.
- American curriculum: Degree structures, credit systems, and academic calendars follow US university standards, which means your AUS degree will be recognized by graduate schools and employers worldwide.
- Research output: AUS maintains active research centers spanning energy, water, urban planning, and Arabic computational linguistics, attracting external funding from both government and private partners.
- Campus size: Current total campus area in acres or square kilometres.
This combination of recognized accreditation and authentic multicultural environment genuinely sets AUS apart from many regional competitors.
Where is the AUS Campus Located and How Do You Access it?
The campus sits within University City, a dedicated education hub in Sharjah, approximately 15 kilometres from central Dubai. The location works well for students commuting from multiple Emirates.
- Proximity to Dubai: The campus is accessible from Dubai via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, with an average drive of 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
- Public transport: Sharjah and Dubai bus services connect the area, though services can be infrequent. Many students rely on ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber for regular commutes.
- Metro access: The nearest Dubai Metro stations require a connecting bus or taxi, as no direct metro line reaches University City yet.
- Parking: Extensive free parking is available across multiple campus zones, making car ownership practical for many students and faculty.
- Commute times from Abu Dhabi: Typical commute duration from Abu Dhabi to AUS campus
For students living on campus, location becomes almost irrelevant. The campus is walkable and self-sufficient for daily needs.
What Academic Facilities and Resources are Available on Campus?
AUS has invested heavily in academic infrastructure over the years. The result is a campus where resources match international expectations.
- Library: The AUS Library holds an extensive physical and digital collection and provides access to major academic databases, including JSTOR, ScienceDirect, and IEEE Xplore.
- Engineering laboratories: Fully equipped labs serve civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and computer engineering departments, many featuring industry-standard equipment.
- Computer labs: Distributed across colleges, these labs provide licensed software covering design, simulation, data analysis, and creative production tools.
- Business school facilities: The College of Business Administration features trading rooms, case study spaces, and collaboration suites reflecting real corporate environments.
- Architecture studios: Large open-plan design studios support the College of Architecture, Art and Design, one of AUS’s most globally recognized academic units.
- Student commons: Informal learning spaces and collaborative lounges throughout academic buildings encourage peer learning and group projects.
What are the Campus Accommodation Options for Students?
On-campus housing at AUS is popular, particularly among international students arriving without local family networks. Demand runs high, so early application is important.
- Residence halls: Separate male and female residence halls provide furnished rooms in single and shared configurations.
- Residential community programs: Resident advisors organize social and cultural events, helping new students adjust to university life.
- Housing costs: Current per-semester residential fees for single and shared room options
- Housing availability: Current on-campus capacity and typical occupancy rates
- Off-campus alternatives: Sharjah offers more affordable apartment rentals compared to Dubai, with areas like Al Nahda and Al Qasimia popular among AUS students. Monthly rents vary significantly by apartment size and building quality.
What Sports and Recreation Facilities Does AUS Offer?
Recreation at AUS extends well beyond a basic gym. The campus supports an active sports culture across dozens of activities.
- Fitness centre: A well-equipped gymnasium with cardio machines, free weights, and group fitness classes serves both students and staff.
- Swimming pool: An on-campus pool supports lap swimming, recreational use, and competitive swimming training.
- Sports courts: Facilities include basketball courts, tennis courts, squash courts, and multipurpose halls for volleyball and badminton.
- Athletic fields: Outdoor football and running facilities support team training and casual use.
- Student clubs and intramurals: Current number of active sports clubs and registered participation figures
- Health centre: On-campus medical services provide basic healthcare, referrals, and wellness programs for registered students.
How Does the Campus Support Student Life Beyond Academics?
Student life at AUS extends well beyond classrooms and libraries. The university actively invests in personal development opportunities.
- Student organisations: Over registered clubs span cultural groups, academic societies, entrepreneurship networks, and volunteer organizations.
- Career services: The careers office provides resume workshops, mock interviews, on-campus recruitment drives, and employer networking events throughout the academic year.
- Graduate employment: Current graduate employment rate within six months of graduation and average starting salary data.
- Counselling services: Professional counsellors offer confidential mental health support, stress management workshops, and academic skills development sessions.
- International student support: A dedicated international students office assists with visa renewals, Emirates ID processes, and cultural adjustment.
What is the Dining and Food Experience on Campus?
You’ll find multiple dining options on campus catering to the diverse tastes of AUS’s multinational student community.
- Dining outlets: Current number of cafeterias and food outlets on campus.
- Dietary accommodations: Halal food is standard across campus outlets. Vegetarian and vegan options are generally available, though variety may differ by location.
- Average meal costs: Current average cost per meal at campus dining facilities.
- Meal plans: Pre-purchased meal plan options may be available for resident students.
- Off-campus options: University City has nearby retail and food options, and popular delivery platforms like Talabat and Deliveroo serve the area reliably.
What are the Safety and Security Measures on Campus?
Campus safety at AUS receives serious attention. Security infrastructure reflects both UAE standards and the expectations of a residential university community.
- Security personnel: Trained security staff maintain a 24-hour presence across campus entry points and key facilities.
- CCTV systems: Surveillance cameras operate throughout buildings, parking areas, and public spaces.
- Gate access: Vehicle and pedestrian entry is managed through controlled gates requiring valid university identification.
- Emergency protocols: Documented emergency response procedures cover medical incidents, fire, and other critical situations, with regular drills conducted across campus.
- Safety record: Publicly available campus safety statistics or annual security report data.
What Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives are Present?
Sustainability plays an increasingly central role in how AUS manages campus operations and shapes its student experience.
- Green building standards: Several campus buildings have pursued or achieved LEED certification.
- Renewable energy: Current solar energy capacity and percentage of campus electricity from renewable sources.
- Carbon targets: AUS published sustainability roadmap and emissions reduction targets.
- Waste management: Recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives operate across campus facilities.
- Water conservation: Given the UAE’s climate, treated wastewater irrigates campus landscaping, reducing fresh water consumption.
- Student projects: Sustainability-focused student groups run awareness campaigns and practical green projects, often supported by faculty research centers.
FAQ
What is the cost of studying at American University of Sharjah?
Tuition fees at AUS vary by program and college. Engineering and architecture programs typically cost more per credit hour than humanities programs. On-campus housing adds semester housing fees. Budget additionally for textbooks, health insurance, and activity fees. Total annual costs vary significantly depending on your program, living arrangements, and lifestyle. Scholarship opportunities can meaningfully reduce overall expenses.
What are the admission requirements for AUS?
Applicants must submit a secondary school certificate with a competitive GPA. Standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT are considered, along with English proficiency demonstrated through TOEFL or IELTS. The university’s acceptance rate reflects its selective admissions process. Graduate program requirements vary by department and typically include a bachelor’s degree, relevant work experience, and program-specific entrance criteria.
What job placement support does AUS provide to graduates?
The AUS Career Services department actively connects students with UAE employers through on-campus recruitment events, employer information sessions, and internship placement programs. The office maintains partnerships with major regional and multinational employers. Graduate employment outcomes are strong compared to regional benchmarks. Alumni networks provide additional employment pathways across the GCC region and internationally.
How can international students apply and enroll at American University of Sharjah?
International students apply through the AUS online admissions portal, submitting academic transcripts, standardized test scores, English proficiency results, and a personal statement. Application deadlines differ between fall and spring intakes. After receiving an offer, you’ll begin the UAE student visa process with support from the AUS International Students Office, which guides you through Emirates ID registration, medical fitness testing, and residency documentation.