Accredited universities in Lebanon

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2014 (chartered as Lebanese Shia-affiliated university with Hezbollah-aligned institutional connections; "Al-Maaref" = "Knowledge/Cognition"). Shia-affiliated private university in Beirut. Founded 2014. "AL-MAAREF" = "Knowledge/Cognition" in Arabic. ~3,000+ students. Distinguished Shia Islamic studies + comprehensive programmes. INSTITUTIONAL CONTEXT: Has been described in international reporting as having connections to Hezbollah-aligned educational networks; affects some international academic recognition. Lebanese MEHE-licensed.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy · Agriculture & Environmental Studies · Architecture & Design

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

English

IELTS/TOEFL accepted

Tuition

Strong regional reputation

Scholarships

Yes

Email

admissions@aub.edu.lb

Phone

+961 1 350 000

Founded 1866 (chartered 3 December 1866 as Syrian Protestant College by American Presbyterian missionaries; renamed American University of Beirut 1920; ONE OF MIDDLE EAST'S OLDEST modern universities). LEBANON'S PREMIER and ONE OF MIDDLE EAST'S OLDEST modern universities. Chartered 3 December 1866 as SYRIAN PROTESTANT COLLEGE by American Presbyterian missionaries led by Daniel Bliss (first president). Renamed American University of Beirut 1920. ~9,000+ students on 73-acre Ras Beirut campus overlooking Mediterranean. 7 faculties. ENGLISH-MEDIUM, American liberal-arts curriculum. AUB has produced 7 Lebanese Prime Ministers + ~20 Lebanese Presidents/heads-of-state + countless Arab world leaders. CRITICAL CIVIL WAR CONTEXT: AUB was central to Lebanese Civil War 1975-1990 tragedy — Acting President MALCOLM KERR was ASSASSINATED on campus 18 January 1984 (shot by Islamic Jihad gunmen outside his office). Multiple AUB faculty killed/kidnapped during war (Frank Regier, David Dodge, Thomas Sutherland, others). 2020 BEIRUT PORT EXPLOSION (4 August 2020): AUB Medical Center suffered significant damage from 2,750-ton ammonium nitrate blast at port ~3km away; multiple staff and patients killed/injured. Pakistani + international student community.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Architecture & Design · Communication & Media Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2000 (chartered as American-style private university; English-medium). Major American-curriculum private university. Founded 2000. English-medium. ~5,000+ students on Beirut + Sidon + Zahle + Halba campuses.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Arts & Humanities · Communication & Media Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1996 (chartered by Antonine Maronite Order as second Maronite-affiliated university). Major Maronite Catholic private university. Founded 1996 by ANTONINE MARONITE ORDER. ~5,000+ students. French + Arabic + English instruction. Music + communication + engineering programmes.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2000 (chartered as multi-discipline private university). Major multi-discipline private university in Beirut. Founded 2000. ~5,000+ students on Beirut + Zahle + Tripoli + Saida campuses. English + Arabic + French programmes.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy · Architecture & Design

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1960 (chartered as Beirut Arab University by BUC Society in cooperation with Alexandria University Egypt; Sunni Muslim community affiliated; ARAB-WORLD curriculum focus). Major Sunni Muslim private university in Beirut. Founded 1960 by BUC Society in cooperation with ALEXANDRIA UNIVERSITY EGYPT. ARABIC-MEDIUM with English. ~14,000+ students on Beirut + Debbieh + Tripoli + Bekaa campuses. 11 faculties. Premier Sunni-affiliated comprehensive university (Sunnis ~31% of Lebanese, traditionally hold the Prime Ministership under confessional power-sharing).

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2001 (founded as Assemblies of God evangelical Protestant university; English-medium). Evangelical Protestant private university. Founded 2001. Assemblies of God affiliation. ~1,500 students. Theology + business programmes.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Languages & Linguistics · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1955 (chartered as ARMENIAN PROTESTANT college by Armenian Missionary Association of America + Armenian Evangelical Union of Near East; LEBANON'S ARMENIAN COMMUNITY university). Lebanon's major Armenian community university. Founded 1955 by ARMENIAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA + Armenian Evangelical Union of Near East. Named after MEHRAN HAIGAZIAN (1881-1921) — Armenian-American educator. ~1,200 students. ENGLISH-MEDIUM with Armenian language programmes. Represents Lebanon's significant Armenian diaspora community (~4% of Lebanon, mostly descended from 1915 ARMENIAN GENOCIDE SURVIVORS who found refuge in Levant). Distinctive Armenian language + literature + Armenian Genocide studies programmes.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Business & Management

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1999 (founded by HARIRI FOUNDATION created by RAFIQ HARIRI — Lebanese PM 1992-1998 + 2000-2004 ASSASSINATED 14 February 2005). Major Lebanese-Canadian private university. Founded 1999 by HARIRI FOUNDATION created by RAFIQ HARIRI (1944-2005) — Lebanese Sunni businessman who became Prime Minister 1992-1998 + 2000-2004; central figure in post-Civil-War Lebanese reconstruction. CRITICAL CONTEXT: Hariri was ASSASSINATED 14 February 2005 in massive Beirut car bombing (~22 killed); UN Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) convicted Hezbollah members in absentia 2020 for the assassination. Triggered Cedar Revolution that ended Syrian military presence in Lebanon. ~2,000+ students. Canadian + Lebanese curriculum partnerships.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies · Medicine & Health Sciences · Architecture & Design

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1938 (founded by MARONITE LEBANESE MISSIONARY ORDER as Lebanon's premier Maronite Catholic university; chartered as university 1961). LEBANON'S PREMIER MARONITE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY. Founded 1938 by Maronite Lebanese Missionary Order. Chartered as university 1961. Located in Kaslik on Lebanon's coast north of Beirut. ~10,000+ students. Trilingual Arabic-French-English. 11 faculties. Major Maronite Christian community institution (Maronites are ~21% of Lebanese population and historically held the presidency under confessional power-sharing). Distinctive Antonine + Maronite theology + Eastern Christian heritage.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1996 (chartered as SHIA-AFFILIATED Islamic university by Higher Shia Islamic Council of Lebanon). Major Shia Muslim private university. Founded 1996 by HIGHER SHIA ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF LEBANON (Lebanese-Shia institutional authority). ~7,000+ students. Multi-campus across Lebanon. Premier Shia-community comprehensive university (Shias ~31% of Lebanese, traditionally hold the Speaker of Parliament under confessional power-sharing).

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1988 (chartered as Sunni-affiliated private university in Tripoli — Lebanon's second-largest city + Sunni-majority North Lebanon). Major Sunni-affiliated private university in Tripoli, northern Lebanon (Sunni-majority region). Founded 1988 during Lebanese Civil War. ~6,000+ students. Multi-campus Tripoli + Saida + Beirut.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Law · Communication & Media Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1875 (heritage to La Sagesse Schools founded 1875 by Maronite priest Youssef Debs; chartered as university 1999). Maronite Catholic private university with EXTRAORDINARY HERITAGE. Heritage to LA SAGESSE SCHOOLS founded 1875 — same year as Saint Joseph University by Maronite Archbishop Youssef Debs. Chartered as university 1999. ~3,500+ students. French-Arabic instruction. Strong law + journalism.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy · Architecture & Design

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Email

admissions@lau.edu.lb

Phone

+961 1 786 456

Founded 1835 (heritage to American School for Girls — first formal education for girls in Ottoman Lebanon by American missionaries; renamed multiple times; LAU 1996; one of LEBANON'S OLDEST HE institutions with women's-education pioneering heritage). Major Lebanese-American private university with EXTRAORDINARY HERITAGE. Heritage to AMERICAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS founded 1835 by American Presbyterian missionaries — FIRST FORMAL EDUCATION FOR GIRLS in Ottoman Lebanon, predating AUB by 31 years. Multiple renamings: Beirut College for Women, Beirut University College, LAU 1996. ~8,500+ students on Beirut + Byblos + New York campuses. ENGLISH-MEDIUM, American curriculum. DISTINCTIVE WOMEN'S EDUCATION PIONEERING HERITAGE — still ~55% female enrolment. Strong medicine + engineering + business. ALSO AFFECTED BY 2020 BEIRUT PORT EXPLOSION (Beirut campus damaged).

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2002 (founded by Lebanese-German educational cooperation). Major Lebanese-German private university. Founded 2002 through Lebanese-German educational cooperation. ~2,500+ students. German curriculum partnerships.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2001 (chartered as large-scale private multi-campus university; sister institution to International University of Beirut). Major modern private university with LARGE MULTI-CAMPUS footprint. Founded 2001. ~26,000+ students on 9 CAMPUSES across Lebanon (Beirut + Bekaa + South + North + Mount Lebanon + Saida + Tripoli + Tyre + Nabatieh) — LEBANON'S MOST GEOGRAPHICALLY DISTRIBUTED private university. 9 faculties. Arabic + English programmes.

SubjectsArts & Humanities

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1925 (chartered during French Mandate era; Lebanon's premier classical music conservatory). Lebanon's premier classical music conservatory. Founded 1925 during French Mandate. ~2,000 students. Premier classical music + Lebanese traditional music (oud, qanun) + Arabic classical music training. Wadih El Safi + Fairuz + many Lebanese classical musicians have heritage to conservatory.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy · Law · Education · Languages & Linguistics

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Email

admissions@ul.edu.lb

Phone

+961 5 463 000

Founded 1951 (chartered as LEBANON'S ONLY PUBLIC UNIVERSITY; multi-branch system across 6 governorates). LEBANON'S ONLY PUBLIC UNIVERSITY. Founded 26 February 1951 as Lebanese University. ~80,000+ students (LEBANON'S LARGEST university by enrolment, vast majority of Lebanese youth in public HE) across MULTI-BRANCH SYSTEM covering all 6 governorates of Lebanon (Beirut + Mount Lebanon + North + South + Bekaa + Nabatieh). 17 faculties. Arabic + French + English instruction. CRITICAL CONTEXT: HEAVILY IMPACTED by 2019-onwards economic collapse — faculty strikes, salary erosion to ~5-10% of pre-2019 value in USD terms, major brain drain (estimated 30%+ faculty have left); 2020 BEIRUT PORT EXPLOSION damaged LU buildings near port. Despite challenges, remains LEBANON'S democratic-access HE backbone — free/low-cost tuition serves working-class Lebanese.

SubjectsBusiness & Management

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2002 (private business and management school). Beirut private business school. Founded 2002. ~1,200 students. Strong management + MBA programmes.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1939 (founded as Middle East College by Seventh-day Adventist Church; university 2008). Seventh-day Adventist Christian private university. Founded 1939 as Middle East College (one of Lebanon's OLDER HE institutions). University status 2008. ~1,000+ students. Theology + business + IT programmes. English-medium.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Communication & Media Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2000 (chartered as business + IT specialised private university). Major Lebanon business + IT specialised private university. Founded 2000. ~4,000+ students on Beirut + Damour + Tripoli + Aley + Semqaniyeh + Bechwet campuses.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Architecture & Design · Communication & Media Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1987 (chartered by MARIAMITE MARONITE ORDER during Lebanese Civil War period; English-medium American liberal arts). Major Maronite Catholic private university. Founded 1987 by Mariamite Maronite Order DURING THE LEBANESE CIVIL WAR (1975-1990) — distinctive that institution was established during war as commitment to post-war Lebanon. ENGLISH-MEDIUM American liberal arts curriculum. ~7,500+ students on Louaize + North Lebanon + South Lebanon campuses. 7 faculties.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 2012 (chartered serving southern Lebanon; named after Phoenicians — ancient Lebanese maritime civilisation). Major southern Lebanon private university. Founded 2012. NAMED AFTER PHOENICIANS — ancient Lebanese maritime civilisation (c. 1500-300 BCE) who invented the first alphabet, dominated Mediterranean trade, founded Carthage. Located in Daoudieh (South Lebanon). ~2,000+ students.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Architecture & Design

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1999 (founded by Hariri Foundation; sister institution to Hariri Canadian). Lebanese private university founded by Hariri Foundation. Founded 1999 (sister to Hariri Canadian). ~3,000+ students. Strong engineering + business programmes. Same context as Hariri Canadian for founder.

SubjectsMedicine & Health Sciences · Natural Sciences · Pharmacy

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1878 (heritage to Greek Orthodox hospital and medical school; among Lebanon's oldest medical heritage). Greek Orthodox private medical and health-sciences institution. Heritage to 1878 Greek Orthodox hospital + medical school in Beirut. ~1,500 students. Strong medical specialisations.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Pharmacy · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1875 (chartered by JESUITS as French Catholic university; LEBANON'S OLDEST French-curriculum university; RIVAL of AUB; established by Pope Leo XIII papal bull). LEBANON'S OLDEST AND PREMIER FRENCH-CURRICULUM university — historic rival of AUB. Founded 1875 by JESUITS (Society of Jesus) as French Catholic university. Established by POPE LEO XIII papal bull. NINE YEARS YOUNGER than AUB (1866) but the institutional rivalry shaped Lebanese intellectual life through 20th century. ~12,000+ students on Beirut + Tripoli + Sidon + Zahle campuses. FRENCH-MEDIUM instruction (some English programmes). 13 faculties including Medicine (Hôtel-Dieu de France hospital affiliation), Law, Engineering, Letters. Major French soft-power presence in Levant. Strong Maronite + Catholic + Francophone Lebanese alumni network.

SubjectsEngineering & Technology · Natural Sciences · Business & Management · Arts & Humanities · Social Sciences · Law · Computer Science & IT · Medicine & Health Sciences · Theology & Religious Studies

Accreditation

Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE / وزارة التربية والتعليم العالي / Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement Supérieur) — apex regulator for Lebanese HEIs. Lebanon has approximately 50 universities/institutions for ~5-6M population — HIGHEST HE RATIO PER CAPITA IN THE ARAB WORLD. HE classifications: (1) LEBANESE UNIVERSITY (Université Libanaise) — the ONLY public university, multi-branch system across Lebanon's 6 governorates; (2) PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES — majority of Lebanese HE, including historic American (AUB, LAU) + French (USJ) + Armenian (Haigazian) + Maronite (USEK) + Greek Orthodox (Balamand) + Islamic (Islamic University of Lebanon, Jinan, Al-Maaref) institutions reflecting Lebanon's confessional diversity. Quality assurance via MEHE Directorate-General of Higher Education + individual university accreditations (some hold US, UK, French accreditation in addition). Lebanon's multilingual education: Arabic (national), French (legacy from 1920-1943 Mandate), English (growing), Armenian (community institutions). MEHE has been severely impacted by 2019-onwards economic crisis with budget reductions affecting Lebanese University particularly.. Verify on the public registry · last verified 2026-05-15.

Founded 1988 (founded by GREEK ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE OF ANTIOCH at historic Balamand Monastery in northern Lebanon; chartered as university). Major Greek Orthodox private university in northern Lebanon. Founded 1988 by GREEK ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE OF ANTIOCH AND ALL THE EAST at the HISTORIC BALAMAND MONASTERY (founded 1157 CE — Crusader-era Cistercian, converted to Greek Orthodox 1289). ~5,000+ students on Balamand + Tripoli (Saint George) + Beirut campuses. English + Arabic + French. Strong medicine, engineering, theology programmes. Represents Lebanon's Greek Orthodox community (~8% of Lebanese).