College of Architecture, Art and Design: Top-ranked Programs and Successful Alumni in the UAE

American University of Sharjah’s College of Architecture, Art and Design Tops Rankings in UAE

The College of Architecture, Art and Design at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) has been recognized for its outstanding academic programs and the success of its graduates in the creative industry. The college’s pioneering programs have ranked first in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fields of architecture, the built environment, art, and design, according to the “QS” international rankings for undergraduate majors in 2023.

The graduates of the College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS have become the preferred choice for employers in the UAE. Their creative contributions have garnered local and international acclaim, winning numerous prestigious awards such as the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East Award, Christo and Jean-Claude Award, International Undergraduate Commercial Interior Design Awards, James Dyson Award, and many more.

Dr. Varkey Palathuchiril, Dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS, highlighted the unique creative designs and critical thinking skills of the college’s graduates, which make them highly sought after by employers and educational institutions.

A recent survey conducted by the college revealed that over 90 percent of its alumni are currently working in the creative industry, government, and academic institutions. Additionally, approximately 40 percent of the surveyed graduates decided to pursue postgraduate studies at prestigious educational institutions such as Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Yale University, Rhode Island School of Design, and the Royal College of Art.

Dr. Palathocherell expressed pride in the achievements of AUS’s College of Architecture, Art and Design alumni, who are dominating the regional design scene. Their names are prominently featured in iconic projects in the UAE, including the Wasit Wetland Center and the ‘Wide Letters’ mural at Expo 2020 Dubai. Many of them have also established leading design companies in the region and actively contribute to major local and international cultural events such as Dubai Design Week and the Venice Biennale.

The College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS offers a unique educational experience to its students. It provides Bachelor’s programs in Architecture, Interior Design, Design Management, Multimedia Design, and Visual Communication, as well as a Master’s Program in Urban Planning.

Dr. Palathuchiril emphasized the transformative potential of design and art in improving the quality of life for individuals and societies. The students and faculty of the College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS are immersed in processes of making, innovation, and exploration to achieve a deep understanding of systems and reimagine them in unconventional ways. They challenge the notion that design and art are mere hobbies, showcasing their ability to add value and change lives through their artistic and design perspectives.

The journey of students at the College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS begins with a foundation program in their first year, followed by specialized subjects in their second year. The college fosters a studio culture that encourages relationships with academic mentors, supports collaborative learning, and provides opportunities to push creative boundaries beyond the ordinary. Students also benefit from an interactive learning environment, lectures, visits to local art galleries and museums, participation in cultural clubs and student-led workshops, as well as study courses and organized educational trips to Italy, Denmark, and Spain to explore the world of international design.

The College of Architecture, Art and Design at AUS continues to pioneer design education in the UAE, producing graduates who are highly skilled, creative, and sought after by employers and educational institutions worldwide.

How does the College of Architecture, Art and Design in the UAE promote a holistic approach to education in the creative industry?

UAE and are contributing to the country’s vibrant creative industry.

The success of the College of Architecture, Art and Design can be attributed to its holistic approach to education. The college offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, allowing students to develop their skills and creativity through hands-on projects and internships. The faculty members are industry professionals who provide valuable insights and guidance to the students, helping them excel in their chosen fields.

In addition to its exceptional academic programs, the college also fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including design studios, fabrication labs, exhibition spaces, and digital media labs. These facilities enable them to bring their creative ideas to life and showcase their work to a wider audience.

Furthermore, the college organizes a range of events and workshops that expose students to industry professionals, allowing them to network and gain valuable insights into the industry. These initiatives help students develop their professional skills and build connections that can benefit them in their careers.

The recognition of the College of Architecture, Art and Design as the top-ranked institution in the UAE is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its dedication to producing highly skilled and talented graduates. With its strong academic programs, industry partnerships, and focus on practical experience, the college continues to shape the future of architecture, art, and design in the UAE and beyond.