The American University in Dubai is a private, non-sectarian institution of higher learning founded in 1995. AUD's enrollment in 2010-2011 averaged 2,628 students. In Spring 2011, ninety-four nationalities were represented in the AUD student body.It is widely believed that American education is synonymous with “quality”. This belief is particularly prevalent with regards to American education at the university level. Several factors are judged to explain this excellence: a curriculum that imparts general knowledge but allows for significant specialization; faculty who frequently contribute to scholarship in addition to exercising their classroom duties; teaching methods that develop in students strong skills in critical reasoning and accurate and persuasive self-expression; the maintenance of high academic standards via clear and consistent policies; and instilling in students an appreciation for life-long learning.The Mission of The American University in Dubai is to fulfill the broad educational needs of a culturally diverse student body by achieving excellence in teaching and learning, ultimately resulting in the intellectual, personal, and professional success of its graduates and the advancement of society.The university community believes it has a special commitment to support each individual’s goals. To this end, the university places emphasis on the educational, professional and personal growth of each student. AUD, as an international institution of higher education, encourages global understanding by providing an atmosphere of cultural diversity and opportunities for international education. Programs, policies and activities – which have been designed to implement this Philosophy and Purpose Statement – are evaluated periodically and changed, as necessary, to meet the needs of the student body and the institution.
