The American University of Kurdistan – 10th Anniversary

As the American University of Kurdistan celebrates its 10th anniversary, it reflects on its mission and accomplishments in preparing future leaders through American-style education, innovative research, ethical community service, and global connectedness. In its efforts to promote international best practices and serve a model institution across Kurdistan and Iraq, the AUK is seeking accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The Candidacy Visiting Team is visiting campus in late February 2024.

The AUK has achieved significant advancements through the competitive grants provided by the United States Department of State (DoS). Initiatives have included progress in institutional and program-level accreditation, the establishment of state-of-the-art labs (Building Information Modeling Lab, Fabrication Lab, and Nursing Skills and Simulation Lab, and the Radio Station and Video Production lab, and soon, an AI Lab). Focus is also placed on ensuring women, minorities, and those from vulnerable populations have access to American-style higher education through scholarships; the DoS Scholarships have covered the tuition and fees for 200 students. Counseling Services, Disability Support, and Career Services provide students with structure to ensure their academic and person success. A certificate program is currently being delivered to women students and alumni centered on leadership, and next year, a program in entrepreneurship will be offered to women IDPs and refugees to ensure their future economic self-sufficiency.

Through the adoption of the American-style education model, the College of Nursing is set to achieve a historic milestone with the graduation of its first cohort of students in 2025. A cornerstone of the program is the Nursing Skills and Simulation Lab equipped with advanced simulation technology that offers students real-world scenarios in a controlled environment. The College is current preparing for programmatic accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The College has established the AUK Life Support Training Site (AUKLS), accredited by the American Heart Association