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Kuwait University

Excellence in Education and Research

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About Kuwait University

A beacon of higher education excellence in the MENA region since 1966.

Our Colleges Contact Us
Est. 1966

Our History

Established in 1966, Kuwait University began as a beacon of higher education in the Arabian Gulf region. Starting with just two colleges and a few hundred students, the university has grown into a comprehensive institution serving over 37,000 students across 15 colleges.

The university faced its greatest challenge during the Iraqi invasion in 1990-1991, emerging stronger through reconstruction efforts that modernized facilities and enhanced academic programs. Today, Kuwait University stands as a testament to resilience, academic excellence, and commitment to national development.

Our Mission

To provide world-class higher education that equips graduates with essential knowledge, skills, and competencies for career success while advancing research and innovation that serves Kuwait and the global community.

Our Vision

To be recognized as a leading university in the Middle East and beyond, distinguished by academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and transformative impact on society.

Kuwait University at a Glance

Key facts and achievements that define our institution

1966

Founded

Established as Kuwait's premier higher education institution

15

Colleges

Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

37,000+

Students

Vibrant community of learners and scholars

4,629

Research Projects

Advancing knowledge through groundbreaking research

66

Patents

Innovations contributing to societal development

58

Years of Excellence

A legacy of academic leadership in the region

Our Core Values

Guiding principles that shape our academic community

Excellence

Pursuing the highest standards in education, research, and service

Innovation

Fostering creativity and pioneering solutions to global challenges

Integrity

Upholding ethical principles and academic honesty in all endeavors

Diversity

Celebrating diverse perspectives and fostering inclusive excellence

Community

Engaging with society to drive sustainable development and progress

Leadership

Developing future leaders who shape Kuwait and the world

Explore More About Us

Discover different aspects of Kuwait University

People

Meet our leadership, faculty, and administrative team

By-Laws & Regulations

Governing policies and institutional frameworks

Careers

Join our team and contribute to academic excellence

Contact Us

Get in touch with offices and departments

FAQs

Common questions about Kuwait University

Be Part of Our Story

Join Kuwait University's legacy of excellence and innovation

Apply as a Student Explore Careers

Our Colleges

15 distinguished colleges offering diverse academic programs

College of Arts

Est. 1966 8 Departments 3,200 Students

College of Science

Est. 1966 7 Departments 2,800 Students

College of Education

Est. 1980 6 Departments 2,500 Students

College of Medicine

Est. 1973 12 Departments 1,800 Students

College of Engineering & Petroleum

Est. 1975 9 Departments 4,200 Students

College of Business Administration

Est. 1985 5 Departments 5,100 Students

College of Law

Est. 1967 3 Departments 1,600 Students

College of Sharia & Islamic Studies

Est. 1971 4 Departments 1,400 Students

College of Social Sciences

Est. 1967 7 Departments 3,100 Students

College of Pharmacy

Est. 1996 5 Departments 900 Students

College of Allied Health Sciences

Est. 2002 6 Departments 1,200 Students

College of Dentistry

Est. 2005 4 Departments 650 Students

College of Life Sciences

Est. 2004 5 Departments 1,800 Students

College of Computing Sciences & Engineering

Est. 2018 4 Departments 2,200 Students

College of Architecture

Est. 2003 3 Departments 800 Students

Governance Structure

Transparent and effective leadership ensuring institutional excellence

01

University Council

Role:

Supreme governing body responsible for overall policy and strategic direction

Composition:

University leadership, faculty representatives, external members

02

University Administration

Role:

Executive management led by the University President

Composition:

President, Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors

03

Academic Senate

Role:

Academic policy formulation and quality assurance

Composition:

Faculty members, department chairs, student representatives

04

College Councils

Role:

College-level academic and administrative decisions

Composition:

Dean, department chairs, faculty representatives

Our Achievements

Recognition of excellence in academics, research, and impact

Academic Recognition

  • Ranked among top universities in the Arab region
  • 90+ internationally accredited programs
  • Member of prestigious international academic associations
  • 75% of programs with international accreditation

Research Impact

  • 4,629 research projects completed
  • 66 patents registered
  • 8 specialized research centers
  • Regional leader in scientific publications

Alumni Success

  • 200,000+ graduates since inception
  • Leadership positions across Kuwait and the region
  • Contributions to national development
  • Strong alumni network and engagement

Our Journey Through Time

Milestones in Kuwait University's evolution

1966

Foundation

Kuwait University was founded in October 1966 as amended by Decree Law No. 29 of 1966. At the time of its establishment in 1966. Kuwait University included four colleges: College of Science, College of Arts, College of Education, and College for Women.

1967

Expansion

In April 1967, by Amiri Decree, the following colleges were founded: College of LawCollege of Sharia and Islamic StudiesCollege of Business, Economy and Political Science.

1970s

Rebuilding & Resilience

In October 1971, by Amiri Decree, the College of Science was separated from the College of Arts and Education. In July 1973, by Amiri Decree, the College of Medicine was established. In December 1974, by Amiri Decree, the College of Engineering and Petroleum was established. In August,16, 1977, by Amiri Decree, the College of Graduate Studies was established.

1980s

Research Excellence

In May 1980, by Amiri Decree, the College of Education was separated from the College of ArtsIn October 1981, by Amiri Decree, the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies was established independently from the College of Law and Sharia StudiesIn 1982, a decision by the Minister of Education and Head of Kuwait University was made to establishes the Health Sciences CenterIn 1982, by Amiri Decree, the College of Allied Health Sciences and Nursing was established separate from the College of Medicine.

1990s

Institutional Growth

On May 28, 1996, by Amiri Decree No. 105 of 1996, the College of Dentistry was established at Kuwait UniversityIn 1998, by Amiri Decree, the College of Social Sciences was established.

2000s

Further Advancement

In 2004, by Amiri Decree, the name of the College of Allied Health Sciences was amendedIn October 2010, by Amiri Decree No. 390, the College of Architecture was established at Kuwait UniversityIn November 2013, by Amiri Decree No. 307, the College of Public Health at Health Sciences Center was established In November 2013, by Amiri Decree No. 308, the name of College for Women at Kuwait University was amended to the College of Life Sciences.

Strategic Plan

Our strategic plan serves as a roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the ever-evolving higher education landscape, guiding our efforts to enhance student success, foster faculty members development, and contribute to societal progress.

Quality Education

Delivering world-class education through innovative curricula and pedagogical approaches

  • Prepare a highly competitive graduate with a wide specialized and knowledgeable background, equipped with leadership skills and innovative thinking initiative.
  • Develop high-quality research that addresses internationally and globally vital influential issues
  • Offer high- quality training and consultation services that contribute to the knowledge and professional development of individuals and institutions
  • Maintain highly qualified and professional administrative and financial management that supports the development process at the University

Research & Innovation

Advancing knowledge and addressing national and global challenges through cutting-edge research

  • Establish and environment that stimulates innovation and creativity for all university affiliates
  • Become an institution that fosters innovative projects to achieve development and progress

Sustainability

Promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable development across campus and community.

  • Establish a healthy sustainable environment with knowledgeable and driven university affiliates educated on sustainability principles
  • Establish a financially and administratively sustainable institutional system

Global Visibility

Building international collaborations to enhance academic and research capabilities

  • Enhance University's academic identity and its renowned national and international status
  • Maintain visibility through effective local and global engagements and participations

Strategic Plan

Guiding Kuwait University's vision for the future

Strategic Objectives

Kuwait University's strategic plan focuses on achieving excellence in teaching, research, and community service. The plan outlines key priorities including enhancing academic quality, expanding research capabilities, fostering innovation, and strengthening international partnerships.

Key Initiatives

  • Academic Excellence: Continuous improvement of curricula and teaching methodologies
  • Research Innovation: Expanding research infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Digital Transformation: Modernizing learning environments and administrative systems
  • Global Engagement: Building international partnerships and exchange programs
  • Sustainable Development: Contributing to Kuwait's Vision 2035 and UN Sustainable Development Goals

Implementation Timeline

The strategic plan is implemented through phased initiatives with clear milestones and performance indicators to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.

Organizational Structure

The framework that organizes Kuwait University’s leadership, governance, and administrative functions.

New Campus Relocation (2021–2024)

Kuwait University moved to the new campus in 2021. The new campus is based in Al-Shadadiya area. All colleges are set to officially open in 2024 (except for the medical campus).

Growth & Milestones

The university has witnessed an increase in enrolment from approximately 418 to 40,000 students, from 31 to 1,565 faculty members, from 4 to 17 colleges, and from 200 to more than 5,000 administrative and academic support personnel. Kuwait University has more than 100,000 alumni serving the country and region, where some have attained prominent positions.

Governance & Strategic Direction

The strategic plan of the university is set by the planning sector. Its executive powers are vested in the President, who heads the university, and is responsible for its scientific, intellectual, technical, administrative and financial affairs. The President oversees implementation of Kuwait University laws, bylaws and the University Council’s decisions, and sustenance of institutional development through policies, plans and strategies geared towards advancement.

Executive Leadership Structure

The scope of presidential responsibilities is demonstrated through five core offices: Academics, Research, Health Sciences, Planning and Academic Support Services. Each office is headed by a Vice President. In addition to Kuwait University General Secretary Office, which is considered an executive office and the institutional administrative affairs arm, headed by the Secretary General. Together, with the five Vice Presidents, these leaders represent the senior leadership and executive authority of Kuwait University.

View Organizational Chart View Full Organizational Structure