The British institution QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) that specializes in higher education publishes annually World University Rankings, measuring and comparing thousands of institutions around the globe.
It recently released the QS 2021 ranking, which includes 8 top Lebanese universities we should be proud of.
Despite the difficulties Lebanon is facing, 6 of the universities improved in rank while the other 2 remained stable. Well done!
#1 American University of Beirut (AUB)
First on the list of the eight Lebanese universities is AUB, ranking 220 out of 1002 institutions on the QS Ranking 2021. AUB also proudly ranks #2 in the region, following King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in Saudi Arabia.
In recent events, however, AUB is struggling to make ends meet and has had to compromise a portion of its staff and faculty members. Will AUB retain its illustrious reputation? Even The Washington Post is hoping so, publishing recently a call for the US Government to help.
#2 University of Balamand (UOB)
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, UOB followed AUB by ranking #501-510, improving heaps from the 2020 ranking #581-590. Among regional universities, UOB ranks #36.
In addition, UOB has a well-established art school in Sin El-Fil, as well as new campuses in other regions in Lebanon.
#3 Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ)
Founded in 1875 by the Jesuits, USJ is among Lebanon’s oldest universities alongside AUB and LAU.
In the QS ranking, USJ‘s world rank is #541-550, increasing since the last ranking. Regionally, It now ranks #18 for 2121.
#4 Lebanese American University (LAU)
Although formally founded in 1924, LAU is probably the oldest university in Lebanon. It was first established in 1835 as the American School of Girls. It has come a long way since then, ranking #15 in the region and has a QS world rank of #551-560.
#5 Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK)
USEK ranks #601-650, keeping a steady ranking since the last time. The university ranks #30 in the region.
Historically French-speaking, USEK adopted the North American credit system in 1997 and offers courses in English, Arabic and French in a variety of internationally accredited programs.
#6 Lebanese University (LU)
The only public university in Lebanon, the Lebanese University, was ranked for the first time by QS, earning the world rank of #701-750.
It also ranks #25 in the region, better than some universities mentioned above, scoring as such new international achievements.
#7 Notre Dame University (NDU)
Ranking similarly to Lebanese University, the Notre Dame University has improved in rank since the QS 2020 World University Rankings. NDU now ranks #28 among others in the region.
#8 Beirut Arab University (BAU)
Finally, last but not least, the BAU is on the list, maintaining its stable position since the last ranking #801-1000. BAU has three campuses in Lebanon. It now ranks #48 among universities in the region.
