“Dhofar University: Oman's first with a 5-star QS rating and entry into the world's top 900 in 2026”

Dhofar University in the Sultanate of Oman | Majors, Academic Programs, Admission, Rankings, and Scientific Research

It is University of Dhofar – Dhofar University (DU) A private higher education institution in the city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate in the Sultanate of Oman, offering academic programs under a credit-hour system in a model derived from the American higher education system. The university was established by Ministerial Decree No. 5/2004 issued in January 2004 and officially began its academic activity in September of the same year. Its academic system includes colleges of arts and applied sciences, commerce and business administration, engineering, and law, alongside the College of Medicine, which has become part of the university's modern academic structure.

Dhofar University offers programs at diploma, bachelor's, and graduate levels, in addition to the Centre for Preparatory Studies, which prepares school graduates for enrollment in university programs. The university also works in scientific research, community service, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, and provides services for international students in an academic environment that includes students and faculty members of multiple nationalities.

Dhofar University obtained national accreditation from the Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education (OAAA) in December 2018, and in recent years the university has appeared in a number of international rankings, including the QS World University Rankings 2026 and the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025.

About Dhofar University

Alnoor University was founded Dhofar University under Ministerial Decree No. 5/2004 issued in January 2004, and the university officially began its activity in September 2004 in the city of Salalah.

The university describes itself as a private higher education institution operating under a higher education model based on the American system, with the adoption of Credit Hours as the unit of academic achievement. The study system includes diploma, bachelor's, and graduate programs, with the language of instruction varying by program.

The university notes the presence of a board of trustees, the highest policy-setting body, while academic programs are distributed across a group of colleges and specialized centers.

Key Information

Source: Dhofar University's official website.

Where is Dhofar University located?

The location of Dhofar University is in the city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate in the Sultanate of Oman. The university's dedicated page for international students provides information about Salalah, the Dhofar region, and the local environment hosting the university.

Salalah is the main center of Dhofar Governorate and is distinguished by geographic and cultural particularities within the Sultanate of Oman, which form part of the environment in which Dhofar University students live and study.

The university's published official address:

Dhofar University, Salalah, Sultanate of Oman
P.O. Box: 2509
Postal code: 211

Official website: Dhofar University

Colleges and Academic Programs at Dhofar University

The university's current official website lists a group of colleges and academic centers, including:

1. College of Arts and Applied Sciences
2. College of Commerce and Business Administration
3. Faculty of Engineering
4. Faculty of Law
5. Faculty of Medicine
6. Centre for Preparatory Studies

The published academic programs page shows that the core academic colleges offer diploma, bachelor's, and master's programs, while the College of Medicine has become part of the university's current academic structure with its own academic website, programs, and student guide.

College of Arts and Applied Sciences

The College of Arts and Applied Sciences offers a range of programs in humanities, social sciences, education, computer science, and languages.

Among the programs the university lists:

Diploma Programs

• Diploma in Social Work.
• Diploma in Computer Science.
• Diploma in Mathematics.
• Diploma in Computer Science for students with hearing disabilities.
• Diploma in English Language.

Undergraduate programs

• Bachelor of Arts in Social Work.
• Bachelor of Education in Teaching Mathematics.
• Bachelor of Education in Teaching English.
• Bachelor of Education in Teaching Information Technology.
• Bachelor of Education.
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics.
• Bachelor of Arts in English Language.
• Bachelor of Arts in Translation.
• Bachelor of Arts in Arabic Language.

Graduate studies

• Master of Social Work.
• Master of Education in Educational Leadership.
• Master of Education in Psychological Counseling.
• Master of Education in Teaching English as a Foreign Language TEFL.
• Master of Education in Curricula and Teaching Methods.
• Master of Arts in Linguistic Studies.
• Master of Arts in Literary and Critical Studies.
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity.
• Educational qualification diploma.

The language of study varies by program.

College of Commerce and Business Administration

offers College of Commerce and Business Administration CCBA Academic programs in the fields of management, accounting, finance, marketing, information systems, logistics, and business analytics.

Among the officially published programs:

Diploma

• Accounting.
• Finance.
• Management.
• Marketing.
• Management Information Systems.

Bachelor's degrees

• Business Administration in Accounting.
• Business Administration in Finance.
• Business Administration in Management.
• Business Administration in Marketing.
• Business Administration in Management Information Systems.
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
• Business Analytics.

Graduate studies

• Master of Business Administration (MBA).
• Master's in Management.
• Master of Science in Accounting.

College of Engineering at Dhofar University

offers Faculty of Engineering Programs in a group of engineering specializations, including:

Diploma Programs

• Civil and Environmental Engineering.
• Chemical engineering.
• Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering.
• Mechanical engineering.
• Interior Architecture.

Undergraduate programs

• Chemical engineering.
• Civil engineering.
• Computer and Communications Engineering.
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
• Mechanical engineering.
• Interior Architecture.
• Architectural engineering.

Graduate studies

• Master of Project Management.

The university notes that the College of Engineering's programs are linked to a balance between scientific foundation and professional engineering practice.

Faculty of Law

offers Faculty of Law Programs in law at the bachelor's and graduate levels.

The published programs include:

• Bachelor's in Law.
• Master's in Private Law.
• Master's in Public Law.
• PhD in Law – Private Law.
• PhD in Law – Public Law.

The doctoral programs in law appear in the latest published graduate studies data for the academic year 2026/2027.

College of Medicine at Dhofar University

appears Dhofar University College of Medicine currently part of the university's official academic structure, with an independent academic website that includes information about the college, programs, admission, facilities, and clinical partnerships.

The university explains that the college is dedicated to developing medical education and scientific research and providing medical education and training in the region, and it includes academic departments or units covering basic medical sciences, medical sciences, and surgery, in addition to a center for medical education and simulation.

The university's official news indicates that the launch of the College of Medicine went through a preparation and development phase for infrastructure, curricula, and academic programs, while the college's current pages include information on clinical training and academic and medical partnerships.

Editorial note: Given the recent emergence of the College of Medicine within the current academic structure, it is preferable to refer directly to the college's website when publishing details of admission, programs, and fees, and to update them periodically.

Bachelor's and Diploma Programs

The official academic programs page indicates that Dhofar University offers programs at multiple levels, and that a student can obtain a diploma after completing the first two years in most majors according to university requirements, while obtaining a bachelor's degree is linked to completing graduation requirements in the major.

Among the most prominent fields of study:

Source: Dhofar University's official academic programs.

Graduate Studies at Dhofar University

Dhofar University offers graduate programs including master's and the educational qualification diploma, in addition to doctoral programs in law on the latest page published for the 2026/2027 academic year.

The currently published programs include:

Programs in English

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity.
• Master of Education in Teaching English as a Foreign Language TEFL.
• Master of Project Management.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Programs in Arabic

• PhD in Private Law.
• PhD in Public Law.
• Master of Education in Educational Leadership.
• Master of Education in Psychological Counseling.
• Master of Education in Curricula and Teaching Methods.
• Master of Social Work.
• Master's in Linguistic Studies.
• Master's in Literary and Critical Studies.
• Master's in Management.
• Master of Science in Accounting.
• Master of Private Law.
• Master of Public Law.
• Educational qualification diploma.

The university explains that its graduate programs follow the American model of higher education, using Arabic or English as the language of instruction depending on the program.

Admission and Registration at Dhofar University

Admission procedures at Dhofar University depend on the requirements of the program and the study level.

The university's system shows the existence of placement tests for new students in English, mathematics, and information technology, aimed at determining the academic level and the need to enroll in the preparatory program.

As for the College of Medicine, the official admission page stipulates holding a general education certificate or its equivalent, and completing the preparatory program at Dhofar University or a recognized higher education institution, or obtaining an exemption from the preparatory program's English, mathematics, and information technology courses according to placement tests.

Therefore, the student must review the official admission requirements for the program they wish to enroll in before submitting an application.

Official Admission Requirements at Dhofar University

The Foundation Program at Dhofar University

provides Centre for Preparatory Studies a one-year preparatory program aimed at preparing high school graduates for enrollment in university academic programs.

The program focuses on four main areas:

• English Language.
• Mathematics.
• Information technology.
• General study skills.

Applicants undergo placement tests in English, mathematics, and information technology, with exemption cases according to the conditions set by the university.

Language of Study at Dhofar University

The university explains that English is the official language of instruction in most programs, including lectures, books, references, and educational and research materials.

At the same time, certain programs are taught in Arabic, including programs in Arabic literature and law, according to the published data for academic and graduate programs.

Tuition Fees at Dhofar University

The university does not display unified fees for all programs; the total cost is linked to the number of credit hours required for graduation and the per-credit-hour value of the program.

The international students' page explains that total fees depend on the number of hours required in the program, with the cost varying by academic program. Therefore, a fixed figure should not be used as Dhofar University fees for all majors.

To obtain current fees: Refer to the official fees page or the university's guide for the relevant academic year.

Dhofar University Accreditation and Academic Quality Assurance

obtained Dhofar University received national accreditation from the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA) in December 2018.

The university states that obtaining national accreditation made it the first university in the Sultanate of Oman to receive this accreditation, according to the official page published on the university’s website.

A distinction must be made between Academic Accreditation وuniversity ranking; accreditation is linked to quality assurance and compliance with academic standards, whereas university rankings measure different indicators according to each ranking body’s methodology.

Dhofar University Accreditation – OAAA

Academic Accreditations and Certifications

Through its College of Engineering, the university publishes information about the accreditations and certifications associated with the college and its programs.

Among the officially published information is the ISO 9001:2015 certification associated with the College of Engineering, in addition to information on the National Qualifications Register entry for the Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering program.

These certifications should not be described as a “world ranking” or “comprehensive university accreditation,” because their nature and scope differ from global institutional rankings.

Scientific Research at Dhofar University

Dhofar University considers scientific research one of the pillars of its academic work. The university has a research department that works to create a supportive environment for research activities and to encourage and facilitate research across the university.

The university notes that between 2009 and 2015 it received eight research grants from The Research Council in fields that included energy and industry, information and communications technology, languages, the social sciences, and the EcoHouse project.

The university also currently publishes research and development guidelines for the academic years 2025–2027, alongside guidelines for internal and external grant projects and Dhofar University research grants.

The university’s research ecosystem also includes the Dhofar University Research Center which focuses on research areas of regional importance, including frankincense, medicinal plants, and biodiversity.

Dhofar University World Ranking 2026

In 2025, Dhofar University appeared for the first time in QS World University Rankings 2026.

According to the official announcement published on the university’s website, Dhofar University was placed in the band:

901-950 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027

Dhofar University in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

Dhofar University achieved a presence in Times Higher Education World University Impact Rankings, a ranking that measures universities' contributions to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

and in the 2026 Dhofar University was placed in the band:

401–600 globally

Rankings Table

Dhofar University, Sustainability, and the Sustainable Development Goals

The university has established the Dhofar University Center for Sustainability (DUCS) to serve as a platform for promoting sustainability awareness, education, and innovation within the university and the community.

The center focuses on integrating sustainability principles into:

• Education.
• Scientific research.
• Campus operations.
• Community engagement.

The center’s work is also linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and covers the topics of the environment, social responsibility, and economic development.

The university also notes that sustainable development represents a focus of its environmental policies, with emphasis on the economic, environmental, and social dimensions.

Student Life at Dhofar University

The Student Affairs Department at Dhofar University provides student services alongside cultural, sports, and artistic activities.

The activities and programs include:

• Student events.
• Sports activities.
• Cultural and artistic activities.
• Lectures.
• Seminars.
• Workshops.
• Student services.

The university indicates that it organizes sports activities including football, volleyball, table tennis, chess, and other activities.

Studying at Dhofar University for International Students

The university dedicates a comprehensive section to international students, and the official website notes the presence of students and faculty members from more than 20 nationalities and cultures.

The university provides a team to support international students and offers information on:

• Procedures for arriving in the Sultanate of Oman.
• Studying at the university.
• The language of instruction.
• Fees.
• University facilities.
• Housing and living.
• Digital support.
• Healthcare.
• Transportation services.
• Students with special needs.

This makes the international students page an essential resource for Arab or international students looking into studying in Oman for international students.

International Students at Dhofar University

E-Services at Dhofar University

The official website lists a number of electronic systems and services aimed at students, including:

• The Student Information System (SIS).
• The Moodle platform.
• The MYDU portal.
• The Unified Portal.
• Registration services.
• Electronic academic services.

These services appear under the student section of the university’s official website.

The Career Services and Alumni Relations Center

Dhofar University places importance on career guidance and alumni engagement through The Career Services and Alumni Relations Center.

The center’s services include:

• Career guidance.
• Helping students plan their career paths.
• CV preparation.
• Job-search skills.
• Preparation for job interviews.
• Personal-skills workshops.
• Field training.
• Engagement with employers.
• Alumni support.
• Training and employment opportunities.

The university also notes that field training is available in most programs, with a training coordinator in each college to facilitate the process.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Dhofar University

The university comprises an Entrepreneurship Center which works to support students and community members who wish to develop entrepreneurial projects and ideas.

The center’s activities include:

• Workshops.
• Training programs.
• Developing ideas and turning them into projects.
• Consulting.
• Support for marketing, financing, and logistics.
• Developing entrepreneurial skills.
• Building partnerships.
• Supporting the small and medium enterprises sector.

The center works in coordination with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority in the Sultanate of Oman in certain areas of consulting and support.

Dhofar University and Community Service

Alongside its academic programs, the university houses the Community Service and Continuing Education Center which offers courses and training programs for university staff, executives, and employees of government bodies and companies, as well as adult learners and members of the local community.

This reflects the extension of the university’s activity into continuing education, training, and community service, not only formal academic education.

Why Might a Student Choose Dhofar University?

Dhofar University can be assessed through a set of characteristics documented in its official sources, including:

• Its location in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate.
• The diversity of its academic programs.
• The availability of diploma, bachelor’s, and graduate programs.
• The availability of graduate programs in Arabic and English.
• The presence of a College of Engineering, a College of Law, a College of Arts and Applied Sciences, and a College of Commerce and Business Administration.
• The presence of a College of Medicine within the current academic structure.
• The university’s national accreditation in 2018.
• The presence of research activity, grants, and programs supporting research.
• The presence of a sustainability center.
• The presence of an entrepreneurship center.
• The presence of a career services and alumni center.
• The provision of services dedicated to international students.
• The university’s presence in the recent QS and THE rankings.

Dhofar University in Numbers and Facts

Sources: Dhofar University and its official academic pages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dhofar University

Where is Dhofar University located?

Dhofar University is located in the city of Salalah, Dhofar Governorate, in the Sultanate of Oman.

When was Dhofar University founded?

The university was established by Ministerial Decree No. 5/2004 in January 2004 and officially began operating in September 2004.

What are Dhofar University’s majors?

The university offers programs in computer science, business, engineering, law, education, languages, social work, mathematics, and more, in addition to graduate programs and the new College of Medicine programs.

Does Dhofar University offer master’s programs?

Yes. For the 2026/2027 academic year, the university offers a range of master’s programs in cybersecurity, business administration, project management, education, management, accounting, law, social work, language studies, and more.

Does Dhofar University offer doctoral programs?

Yes. The latest published list includes Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in private law and public law.

Is Dhofar University accredited?

Yes. The university received national accreditation from the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA) in December 2018, according to the university’s official website.

What is Dhofar University’s rank in QS 2026?

Dhofar University appeared for the first time in the QS World University Rankings 2026 in the band 851–900 globally according to the university’s official announcement.

What is Dhofar University’s rank in the THE Impact Rankings?

The university was placed in the band 601–800 worldwide in the THE World University Impact Rankings 2025, according to the university’s announcement.

Does Dhofar University accept international students?

Yes. The university provides a dedicated page and services for international students and notes that it has students and faculty members from more than 20 nationalities and cultures.

What is the language of instruction at Dhofar University?

English is the primary language of instruction at the university, with selected programs offered in Arabic.

How can I apply to Dhofar University?

You should review the official admission requirements and the desired program, then follow the application and registration procedures set by the university for the relevant academic year.

Conclusion

is Dhofar University A private higher-education institution in Salalah that combines undergraduate education, graduate studies, scientific research, and community service. The university offers multiple programs in arts and applied sciences, commerce and business administration, engineering, and law, with a College of Medicine within its current academic structure.

Admission requirements, tuition fees, available programs, and academic dates remain subject to change and should be verified directly through Dhofar University’s official website before making a decision to study or enroll.

Official Sources

1. Dhofar University’s official website
   Dhofar University – Official Website
2. About the University and Its Programs
   Profile of Dhofar University
3. Programs and Academic Degrees
   Programs and Degrees Offered
4. Graduate Programs 2026/2027
   Postgraduate Programs and Degrees Offered
5. Admission and Registration
   Admission Requirements
6. National accreditation
   Dhofar University – National Accreditation
7. Scientific Research
   Department of Research
8. International students
   International Students
9. Sustainability Center
   Dhofar University Centre for Sustainability
10. an Entrepreneurship Center
    Center for Entrepreneurship
11. Career Services and Alumni Center
    Center for Career Services and Alumni
12. QS World University Rankings 2026 – University Announcement
    Dhofar University Ranked Among Top 1000 Universities Globally in QS 2026
13. THE Impact Rankings 2025 – University Announcement
    Dhofar University – THE World University Impact Ranking 2025
14. College of Medicine – Official Academic Website
    College of Medicine – Dhofar University