About AUK

Founded as a non-profit, higher learning institution in 2014, The American University of Kurdistan (AUK) aims to mold the next generation of leaders through challenging coursework, up-to-date methodologies, and exceptional faculty. Located in the Duhok Governorate of Iraqi Kurdistan, the University is fast becoming the region’s preeminent institution of higher education.
Timeline of University History
December 8th, 2013 | Laid the cornerstone of the American University of Kurdistan |
December 1st, 2014 | Established the five initial Colleges and Academic Programs; Business and Finance, Computer Science, Interior Design, Public Policy, and Media & Mass Communication |
January 11th, 2015 | First Day of Classes at AUK |
March 14th, 2016 | Grand opening of the Mustafa Barzani Building (AUK Campus) |
August 1st, 2016 | Addition of the College of Engineering |
December 16th, 2016 | Conference on the Independence of Kurdistan held at AUK; Launch of Kurdistan Journal of Politics and Economy |
August 30th, 2017 | Received recognition from the Ministry of Higher Education in Baghdad |
July 5th, 2018 | Granted licenses by the Ministry of Higher Education in Erbil to open Colleges of Medicine and Nursing |
April 29th, 2019 | Completed construction on the first Student Residence Hall |
September 1st, 2019 | Founded the College of Nursing |
September 19th, 2019 | AUK's first commencement ceremony |
November 19th, 2019 | Held the first Middle-East Peace and Security Forum (MEPS) |