The Oldest College in Lebanon: American University of Beirut

The oldest institution of higher education in Lebanon is the American University of Beirut (AUB). Founded in 1866 by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions as a Protestant college, it has evolved into a private, non-profit, independent university.

Key Facts About AUB

• Prestige: It is the largest and most prestigious university in Lebanon and one of the most respected in the Arab world.
• Scale: Over 1,000 faculty members and more than 6,500 students representing over 100 countries.
• Academic Breadth: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, engineering, business, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and law.

AUB's long history and academic reputation make it a cornerstone of higher education in the region.