AURAK

September 2025

Discovering AURAK:

Your Gateway to

World-Class Education

in Ras Al Khaimah

Discover

AURAK

FEATURED

SPONSORED EDITION

Prof. Khalid Hussain

Interim Provost

AI-based Study

Unlocks New Insight into

Brain Tumor Treatment

Multilingual Global Exclusive

Note from the

Editor in Chief

Laura Vasquez Bass

Editor in Chief

“

This special edition of UniNewsletter is dedicated

to sharing the exceptional profile and achieve-

ments of the impressive higher education institu-

tion, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah

(AURAK).

Founded in 2009, AURAK is an independent,

not-for-profit public university accredited by the

UAE Ministry of Education. Located in Ras Al

Khaimah, the university offers undergraduate,

including engineering, business and information

technology. Its campus covers a staggering 1.3

million sq. ft., combining beauty and modernity

with state-of-the-art facilities and labs, as well as

specialized

research

centers,

such

as

the

Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence

Center, the RAK Research and Innovation Center

and the AURAK Center for Entrepreneurship.

Meeting—and striving to exceed—the contempo-

rary expectations for student-centered curricu-

lums, AURAK offers its students abundant options

for tailoring their studies to their personal prefer-

ences, such as pursuing leadership positions and

internships. AURAK also partners with international

institutions in the United States, for example, to

offer its students a global perspective on educa-

tion; students can take part in study abroad and

student exchange programs. In the words of

AURAK’s Provost, Prof. Stephen Wilhite, the univer-

sity’s aim is to curate a learning environment that

will prepare graduates to “change the world.”

We invite you to explore this special issue, in which

you will find details of AURAK’s distinguished

accreditations and memberships, such as the

School of Business being accredited by the Asso-

ciation to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

(AACSB International)—joining a cohort of only 6%

of business institutes worldwide. Additionally,

AURAK is accredited by the Southern Association

of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

(SACSCOC), as you will read. We also convey

clear, concise statistics on AURAK’s national and

world rankings.

We hope this issue leaves you inspired to learn

more about this eminent institution, and we

encourage you to connect with its leaders, faculty,

and students.

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“Curating a

learning

environment to

prepare graduates

to ‘change the

world’—this is the

vision that drives

the AURAK”

Recognizing the invaluable guidance of some of

the people directly involved with AURAK, we

feature a leadership article by Provost Khalid

Hussain and also offer the chance to hear directly

from students currently studying at AURAK, and

alumni who discuss how AURAK shaped their

current career paths. Anna Christina, for example,

an alumna who graduated with a BA in Mass

Communications, recalls her time at the university

as “truly remarkable,” and an experience for which

she is “forever grateful.”

Provost Message

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Welcome to the American University of Ras Al Khaimah

(AURAK), where academic excellence, innovation, and student

success are at the heart of everything we do. As Provost, I am

honored to lead our dedicated faculty and staff in creating a

dynamic learning environment that equips students with the

knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in an increasingly

complex and interconnected world.

At AURAK, our strength lies in our people. We are proud of our

talented faculty, who bring deep expertise, innovative

teaching, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of

leaders. Equally, our students are ambitious, creative, and

driven to make a positive impact, and it is their energy and

curiosity that inspire our university every day.

Professor Khalid Hussain

Interim Provost, American University of

Ras Al Khaimah

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

We are committed to a student-centered educa-

tion that combines rigorous academic programs

with hands-on experiences, research opportunities,

and

meaningful

industry

engagement.

Our

students not only develop technical expertise but

also grow as critical thinkers, ethical deci-

sion-makers, and creative leaders.

Exciting research is a hallmark of life at AURAK.

Across our schools, faculty and students collabora-

te on projects ranging from renewable energy solu-

tions and smart technologies to sustainable urban

development and advanced engineering innova-

tions. These initiatives not only advance knowledge

but also address real-world challenges, demons-

trating our commitment to societal impact.

Guided by collaboration, transparency, and

shared

governance,

we

ensure

that

every

member of our academic community plays an

active role in shaping the university’s future. I

invite you to explore our diverse programs,

connect with our vibrant campus community, and

join us in advancing knowledge, innovation, and

excellence. Together, we can achieve remarkable

outcomes and make a lasting difference in the

world.

Sincerely,

Professor Khalid Hussain

Interim Provost, American University of Ras Al

Khaimah

Your Gateway to

World-Class Education

in Ras Al Khaimah

About AURAK

Discovering

AURAK:

The beautiful Emirate of Ras Al

Khaimah, United Arab Emirates is

not only known for its impressive

archaeological heritage, rich

cultural history, striking mountains,

coastal beaches, and mangroves

but also for setting the scene for an

outstanding educational

environment.

Our strong partnership agreements with leading

regional and international organizations enable our

students and graduates to gain the necessary work

experience, knowledge, and tools to make mean-

ingful contributions as professionals in their field on

a global level.

In 2023, AURAK also achieved the QS 5 Stars Plus

rating, becoming the first university in the UAE to

receive this highest accolade, securing its place

among the world's elite universities. This rating

underscores the university’s distinguished perfor-

mance across core categories, including teaching,

employability, academic development, facilities,

and innovation.

Home to more than 55 nationalities, AURAK provides

the opportunity to learn intercultural competencies,

which lay the foundation for living and working in a

globally diverse world.

Attending AURAK will give you the academic skills

and professional preparation necessary to succeed

in your chosen profession. We encourage you to

cultivate new friends, attend university events, join

clubs and organizations, participate on athletic

teams, and attend programs and activities planned

appropriately to keep you safe and healthy.

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American-style

undergraduate

and

graduate

programs with a strong focus on the local indige-

nous culture.

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK)

is a public, non-profit, independent, coeducation

institution of higher education. Its staggering 1.3

million square foot campus delivers integrated

Accreditations

& Memberships

AURAK is officially licensed by

the Ministry of Education of the

United Arab Emirates to award

degrees/qualifications in

higher education. AURAK is

accredited by the Southern

Association of Colleges and

Schools Commission on

Colleges (SACSCOC) to award

baccalaureate and master’s

degrees.

*Questions about the accreditation of

AURAK may be directed in writing to them

using

the

information

available

on

SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

The University has also earned international

accreditation from the Quality Assurance

Agency (QAA), the UK’s quality body for

higher education. It has been granted

accreditation through the Commission for

Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Minis-

try of Education for all degrees offered at the

institution.

With a focus on innovation and advance-

ment, AURAK offers a world-class education

and research experience with various

undergraduate and graduate programs in

Business

&

Management,

Engineering,

Computer Science, Media & Design, Educa-

tion, , Biotechnology, and Psychology.

AURAK has achieved multiple program

accreditations from prestigious institutions,

demonstrating our unwavering dedication

to delivering excellence in education. A

significant number of our undergraduate

engineering

programs

have

received

accreditation from the Accreditation Board

of Engineering and Technology (ABET),

confirming their alignment with rigorous

industry standards. Additionally, the Bache-

lor of Science in Biotechnology program

holds accreditation from the Applied and

Natural Science Accreditation Commission

(ANSAC) of ABET.

Furthermore, our School of Business takes

great pride in being one of 6% of business

institutes worldwide to be accredited by

AACSB International - The Association to

Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

This recognition underscores our commit-

ment to advancing global business educa-

tion. The school also holds membership in

the Business Education Alliance, further

solidifying our dedication to fostering excel-

lence in business education.

The BSBA major in Finance is affiliated with

the CFA Institute, a prestigious affiliation

that underscores the program's alignment

with global investment industry standards.

Additionally,

both

the

BSBA

Major

in

Accounting and the BSBA Major in Finance

have received exemption accreditation

from ACCA for the Chartered Certified

Accountant qualification. This recognition

gives our students a valuable advantage in

pursuing their careers in accounting and

finance.

In addition, AURAK’S Department of Archi-

tecture was granted candidacy status for

the Bachelor of Architecture program by the

National Architectural Accrediting Board

(NAAB), which is the sole agency authorized

to accredit professional degree programs in

architecture offered by institutions with U.S.

regional accreditation.

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

School of Arts & Sciences

BS in Computer Science

BS in Artificial Intelligence

BS in Computer Engineering

Minor in Artificial Intelligence

BSBA Major in

Accounting

BS in Business

Administration (BSBA)

BSBA Major in Finance

BSBA Major in Human

Resource Management

BSBA Major in Marketing

BSBA Major in

Business Analytics

BSBA Major in Hospitality &

Tourism Management

Master of Science in Engineering Project Management (MEPM)

Master of Science in Sustainable & Renewable Energy (MSRE)

BS in Civil Engineering

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)

School of Arts & Sciences

BA in Mass Communication

BS in Chemical Engineering

BS in Electrical and Electronics

Engineering

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor of Architecture

BS in Biotechnology

BS in Psychology

Master of Education: Educational Leadership (M.Ed.)

School of Business

School of Business

School of Engineering and Computing

School of Engineering and Computing

Undergraduate Programs at AURAK

Graduate Programs at AURAK

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At the crossroads of tradition and innovation, AURAK stands tall, setting the gold standard in higher

education. As we redefine excellence, we also broaden global horizons, preparing our students to

lead the world of tomorrow.

Redefining Excellence:

AURAK has distinguished itself by receiving this

top rating, positioning it among the world's most

prestigious institutions.

QS 5 Star Plus Rating

Million sq. ft.

campus

featuring

state-of-the-art

facilities and labs

1.3

Academic schools:

Business, Engineering

& Computing and

Arts & Sciences

Nationally and

internationally

accredited

degrees

23

Strong network

with regional

& international

partners

AURAK - Expanding Global Horizons

for Tomorrow's Leaders

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Institutional Accreditations

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AURAK provides various International Study Programs, partnering with global institutions

to support both incoming students and those seeking overseas study experiences.

Transfer to the USA

Start your studies in the

UAE and earn your

degree in the USA

Student Abroad

AURAK offers faculty-led

short-term study abroad

programs providing

students with valuable

international experience

Student Exchange

Take part in a

transformative experience

that will enrich your global

perspective

International Study Options

Program Accreditations and Memberships

AURAK’s Dr. Rawad Hodeify and Dr. Orwa Aboud of

University of California, Davis, USA, pioneer revolution-

ary and potential non-surgical AI-based diagnostic

model

A pioneering study co-led by a Sigma Xi researcher

from the American University of Ras Al Khaimah

(AURAK) promises to revolutionize brain tumor care

using AI-based tools.

The study is led by Dr. Rawad Hodeify, Department

Chair, Associate Professor of Medical Biotechnolo-

gy, AURAK, and Dr. Orwa Aboud, Assistant Professor,

Department

of

Neurology

and

Neurological

Surgery, University of California, Davis, USA.

The research promises to revolutionize the ways we

diagnose and monitor Glioblastoma, a highly

aggressive form of brain cancer, which presents

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

AURAK

Researcher

Co-Pilots

AI-based

Study

that Unlocks New

Insights into Brain

Tumor Treatment

A pioneering study by AURAK and UC Davis is using AI to revolutionize glioblastoma

diagnosis. Discover how this breakthrough could transform brain cancer treatment.

“

“AI is providing

unprecedented

tools to take brain

tumor diagnosis

and treatment to a

new level... This

cutting-edge

technology

promises to

revolutionize brain

tumor care”

daunting challenges for treatment and diagnosis.

Traditional follow-up methods, primarily brain

imaging, often fall short in detecting the cancer in

its early stages or provide inaccurate results.

Dr. Hodeify’s research hinges on examining tiny

compounds in the blood (metabolites) and

employing mass spectrometry to analyze the type

and quantity of these molecules in patient sam-

ples.

Dr. Hodeify explains: “AI is providing unprecedented

tools to take brain tumor diagnosis and treatment

to a new level. In our research we identified signifi-

cant changes in metabolites associated with

different treatment stages. Leveraging the power

of AI, we have devised a new method to analyze

data, creating a valuable guide for tumor diagno-

sis and treatment response. This cutting-edge

technology promises to revolutionize brain tumor

care.”

Hailing Dr. Hodeify's work, Prof. Stephen Wilhite,

AURAK’s Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs

and Student Success / Provost, said: “The research

done by Dr. Hodeify and his team is bound to have

tremendous impact on treatment of brain tumor

globally. This type of research is in line with the

AURAK vision of excelling in research projects that

impact

today’s

problems,

including

medical

conditions. Our biotechnology program is a classic

example of how the university is nurturing innova-

tors of the future.”

Dr. Hodeify’s paper has been published in the

special issue on Artificial Intelligence in Cancer

Metabolism and Metabolomics in the international,

peer-reviewed journal, Metabolites. The full text

article entitled ‘Application of Machine Learning to

Metabolomic Profile Characterization in Glioblas-

toma Patients Undergoing Concurrent Chemora-

diation’ is available on PubMed Central®, an

archive of biomedical and life sciences journal

literature at the U.S. National Institutes of Health's

National Library of Medicine. (https://pubmed.nc-

bi.nlm.nih.gov/36837918/).

The study examined 105 plasma specimens from

36 glioblastoma patients undergoing standard

therapy. This innovative research represents a

significant advancement in our understanding of

glioblastoma progression and treatment response,

demonstrating the potential of AI-driven metabo-

lomic analysis to revolutionize brain cancer care.

By unravelling the molecular complexities of

glioblastoma, Dr. Hodeify and his team's work holds

promise for the development of targeted interven-

tions, bringing hope to patients and offering pros-

pects for improved outcomes and enhanced qual-

ity of life.

Dr. Rawad Hodeify is an elected member of Sigma

Xi, the Scientific Research Honor Society. Sigma Xi is

the world’s largest general research honor society.

It is an international, multidisciplinary organization

for research scientists and engineers. Over the

course of the Society’s distinguished history, more

than 200 members have won the Nobel Prize and

many more have earned election to the National

Academy of Sciences and National Academy of

Engineering.

AURAK runs a comprehensive four-year under-

graduate program covering diverse areas of

Biotechnology, such as Molecular and Cellular

Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Drug Discovery,

Medical Biotechnology, Forensics, and Food and

Agricultural Sciences. The program is accredited

by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation

Commission (ANSAC) of the prestigious Accredita-

tion Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

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New appointment reflects university’s strategy of

driving the readiness for new wave of technological

and human-centered progress

AURAK Names Renowned

Higher Education Leader,

Prof. Bassam Alameddine,

as New President.

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK)

has appointed Professor Bassam Alameddine, an

internationally recognized higher education leader,

as its new President.

Known for his transformational leadership and

strategic vision, Professor Alameddine’s appoint-

ment signals a bold new era for AURAK - one that

positions the university at the forefront of readiness

for the Fifth Industrial Revolution (Industry 5.0),

where human ingenuity and advanced technolo-

gies work in harmony to create value for society.

Professor Alameddine brings unmatched expertise

to AURAK, having led academic advancements at

prestigious universities in the Gulf and across the

globe. His appointment comes at a decisive

moment as AURAK aligns its ambitions with Ras Al

Khaimah’s rapid emergence as a global hub for

investment, innovation, and education.

“I am delighted to take up my next challenge as

President of the American University of Ras Al Khai-

mah, a reputable institution that has carved a niche

for itself in record time,” said Professor Bassam

Alameddine. “We are witnessing profound disrup-

tions in every aspect of our lives, including the higher

education sector, with AI and other emerging tech-

nologies redefining the job market. The Fifth Indus-

trial Revolution is about more than technology; it’s

about placing humanity at the center while levera-

ging machines as collaborative partners, and that

vision begins with a student-centered present.

“AURAK will reinforce its commitment to delivering

quality education, equipping students with the skills

and training needed to excel in the job market, and

connecting them with renowned international

universities to broaden their horizons and pursue

their aspirations. I look forward to working with

AURAK’s exceptional community to unlock new

opportunities and prepare our graduates to thrive in

the future economy.”

Professor Alameddine succeeds Dr. David Schmidt,

who led AURAK to earn the prestigious QS 5 Stars

Plus rating in 2023, placing the university among an

elite group of universities worldwide.

The new appointment comes at a crucial point in

AURAK’s development as a leading institution of

higher education, with accreditations from presti-

gious global bodies, including the Southern Associa-

tion of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colle-

ges (SACSCOC) and the Quality Assurance Agency

(QAA), the UK’s quality body for higher education,

among others.

Prior to joining AURAK, Professor Alameddine served

as President of Gulf University for Science and Tech-

nology (GUST) in Kuwait, where he oversaw a period

of institutional growth, academic innovation, and

operational excellence. Under his leadership, GUST

rose to 36th place in the QS Arab Region Rankings,

secured major institutional accreditations (QAA,

AACSB, ABET, ACA), and increased research output

fivefold. He established the College of Engineering

and

Architecture,

launched

interdisciplinary

programs aligned with market needs, and imple-

mented the Students’ Performance Enhancement

and Active Retention (SPEAR) system, which impro-

ved student retention and success rates by 56%.

An accomplished scholar, Professor Alameddine is

the Founder and Principal Investigator of the Func-

tional Materials Group, focusing on carbon capture,

gas separation, hydrogen storage, and environ-

mental remediation, research aligned with the

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. His

pioneering work has secured over $2.5 million in

competitive research funding and resulted in nume-

rous peer-reviewed publications and conference

papers.

His career spans prestigious institutions including

Columbia University, King Fahd University of Petro-

leum and Minerals, the Swiss Federal Institute of

Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), and the University of

Fribourg. He holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, a

Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering, and a

Postgraduate Certificate in Senior Leadership from

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RATED

QS STAR RATING 2023

the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. A

trilingual communicator in English, French, and

Arabic, he brings a truly international perspective

to leadership.

Beyond academia, Professor Alameddine advises

organizations in the energy, cosmetics, and scien-

tific sectors and serves on multiple advisory and

scientific boards. A Fellow of the Royal Society of

Chemistry, he is committed to advancing sustai-

nability, promoting diversity, and fostering leaders-

hip excellence in higher education.

Bachelor of Science in

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The AI program at AURAK is at the forefront of techno-

logical innovation. With a curriculum that blends theo-

retical foundations with practical applications, this

0intelligence.

You'll explore topics such as machine learning, neural

networks, natural language processing, and computer

vision.

Our state-of-the-art labs and experienced faculty

provide hands-on learning experiences, ensuring that

you are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges.

Graduates of the AI program are highly sought after in

various industries, including tech, finance, healthcare,

and more.

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

At the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), we are committed to

providing cutting-edge education that prepares students for the dynamic

demands of the modern world. Our unique undergraduate programs, such as the

Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Bachelor of Science in

Biotechnology are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to

thrive in rapidly evolving industries.

Unlock Your Future with

AURAK's Unique Programs

Bachelor of Science

in Biotechnology

The Biotechnology program at AURAK offers a

comprehensive education in the biological

sciences with a strong focus on biotechnology.

This program covers a wide range of subjects,

including genetics, molecular biology, bioinfor-

matics, and bioprocess engineering.

Our cutting-edge facilities and research oppor-

tunities enable students to gain practical experi-

ence and contribute to groundbreaking discov-

eries. Biotechnology is a rapidly growing field

with applications in healthcare, agriculture,

environmental science, and industrial process-

es.

A degree in biotechnology from AURAK opens

doors to diverse career paths and positions you

at the forefront of scientific innovation. BS in

Biotechnology is considered a premed program,

after completion of the degree, the student can

proceed into medical school in the USA or in

select universities worldwide.

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

Why Choose AURAK?

Our programs are

designed to provide a

balance of

theoretical knowledge and

practical skills, ensuring

that you are job-ready

upon graduation.

Join us at AURAK and embark on a journey of discovery and innovation. Our range of 23 unique accredited programs

is your gateway to a successful and fulfilling career. Apply today and take the first step towards a brighter future.

Innovative

Curriculum:

Learn from industry

experts and renowned

academics who are

dedicated to your

success.

Experienced

Faculty:

Benefit from access

to modern labs,

research centers, and

advanced

technology.

State-of-the-Art

Facilities:

Our strong industry

connections and career

services support your

transition from the

classroom to the workforce.

Career

Opportunities:

AURAK's diverse community

and international

collaborations enrich your

educational experience and

prepare you for a global

career.

Global

Perspective:

Discover AURAK. UniNewsletter. Sponsored Edition

Alumni & Student Testimonials:

Anna Christina

BA in Mass Communications

“My journey at AURAK was truly

remarkable. With a BA in Mass

Communications,

majoring

in

Public Relations, I experienced an

enriching

blend

of

diverse

disciplines that shaped me into

who I am today. The dedicated

faculty,

innovative

curriculum,

and vibrant campus community

provided the perfect environment

for

both

my

academic

and

personal growth. I carry with me

the

invaluable

lessons

and

experiences. I am forever grateful

for the transformative years spent

here!”

Omar Adlan

BS in Business Administration

“As a graduate of AURAK, I look back

with fondness on the profound

impact that AURAK had on my

academic and personal growth. The

vibrant campus life, combined with

dedicated faculty, offered me an

enriching

educational

journey.

AURAK's dedication to nurturing

well-rounded individuals equipped

me with the skills and knowledge

necessary for success in my career.

As an alumnus, I take pride in having

been

a

part

of

the

AURAK

community and am grateful for the

solid foundation it provided for my

future endeavors.”

Laura Khalil

BS in Business Administration (Major in Marketing)

“My name is Laura Khalil and I am currently a senior student studying Business

Administration with a concentration in Marketing at the American University of

Ras Al Khaimah. During my years of studies, I have been able to learn more

about marketing principles and real-world applications, which assisted me in

enhancing my knowledge within the program. Through hands-on experience

and internships, I gained insights and skills that have prepared me well for the

dynamic and ever-evolving field of marketing. I am incredibly grateful for the

education and experiences I am receiving here, which have set me on a path

to a successful and fulfilling career in marketing.”

Fares Masarani

BS in Artificial Intelligence

“As a proud member of the

AURAK community, I am pleased

to say that this university has

given me the tools required to

forge my future. With more

leadership opportunities than I

can count, dozens of valuable

lessons enriching my academic

career, and plenty of leeway for

personal growth, this university

was one of the best choices I

made for my education and

future. Surrounded by trusted

friends

and

esteemed

colleagues, I truly feel like I have

found a place I can call home.”

editorial@uninewsletter.com

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