ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has announced the introduction of 17 new academic programmes set to launch in the Fall Semester of 2025/2026.
The expansion comes as part of the University’s strategic mission to prepare students for rapidly evolving global challenges and opportunities.
Accredited by the UAE's Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), these undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level programmes span multiple disciplines and are aligned with the latest global educational and technological trends.
This major academic development underscores ADU’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and multidisciplinary learning. It also reflects the University’s aim to foster a generation of leaders and professionals equipped to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s ambitious national goals and the broader global community.
Undergraduate growth
At the undergraduate level, ADU will introduce five new programmes, each targeting a critical area of modern knowledge. These include the Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design, alongside two science-focused degrees: Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Bachelor of Science in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Engineering.
These additions aim to empower students with both technical skills and global awareness, preparing them for diverse career paths and promoting a culture of innovation and inquiry. The programme in renewable energy, for instance, aligns closely with global climate goals and the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development, while the AI and video game design tracks cater to booming digital and entertainment industries.
Postgraduate expansion
Eight new postgraduate degrees will enhance ADU’s advanced education portfolio. These include the Master of Science in Fintech, Master of Science in Strategic Digital Transformation, Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, and Master of Science in Cybersecurity, all of which address high-demand sectors within the UAE’s digital economy.
Further expanding into niche domains, the University is launching the Master of Education in Educational Technologies and Artificial Intelligence, Master of Law in Cyberlaw and Artificial Intelligence, Master of Science in Public Health, and Master of Arts in Digital Communication and Technology. These programmes are crafted to give students advanced expertise and practical tools to navigate and lead in increasingly complex professional landscapes.
New doctoral frontiers
ADU is also launching four new doctoral programmes, marking a milestone in its academic journey. The new Doctor of Philosophy in Law, Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Doctor of Philosophy in Intelligent Systems Engineering, and Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering Management extend the University’s academic leadership into research-focused disciplines.
These doctoral offerings are being introduced across ADU’s College of Law, College of Arts, Education and Social Sciences, and College of Engineering for the first time. This move reinforces the institution’s role as a regional research hub and expands its ability to contribute to global academic dialogue and innovation.
Academic recognition
ADU’s reputation continues to rise on the global stage. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, the University holds the 191st position globally. It is ranked second in the UAE overall and first in the country for teaching excellence. ADU also leads the UAE and the Arab region in the Business and Economics subject area.
In the 2024 edition of THE Young University Rankings, ADU secured 60th place globally among institutions under 50 years old. The University also achieved 89th position in THE Asia University Rankings 2024. Notably, it was ranked first in the UAE for graduate employability, based on the Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24.
Parallel to this, ADU made a significant leap in the QS World University Rankings 2025, advancing 79 places to stand at 501 globally.
Established in 2003, ADU has grown to serve around 8,700 students across its campuses in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai. Hosting students from over 100 nationalities, the University offers more than 50 academic programmes across five colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Law.