Birzeit University was the first Arab university to be established in Palestine. The institution is located on the outskirts of the city of Birzeit in the West Bank, about 10 kilometers north of Ramallah and 26 kilometers north of Jerusalem. Committed to firm principles of academic freedom, Birzeit University aims to prepare young Palestinian women and men to be responsible leaders and citizens.

Birzeit University encourages its students along the path of academic excellence, and at the same time emphasizes the need for social awareness and national commitment.

The University is governed by an autonomous Board of Trustees, composed of prominent leaders of the community. The president of the University is appointed by the Board and appointments of vice presidents and deans are confirmed by the Board.

The University consists of five faculties: Arts, Commerce and Economics, Engineering, Science, and Graduate Studies. All the undergraduate programs grant bachelors degrees upon the completion of a four-year course of study, with the exception of Engineering, which requires five years. Graduate programs which lead to post-graduate diplomas and masters degrees in various fields are also offered.

Birzeit University's official language is Arabic, though many courses are taught in English. The University follows a semester system, with two four-month semesters beginning in autumn and spring, and a shorter two-month semester in summer.

Facts and Figures

Number of Academic Staff: 276
Number of Non-Academic Staff: 427
Total Employees: 703

Number of Students