The magnificent skyscrapers towering over turquoise lagoons in Dubai have become a United Arab Emirates flagship, and a symbol of their prosperous economy to the rest of the world. The federation of seven scenic emirates is also achieving in other socioeconomic sectors as well – particularly in higher education.
A remarkable 95% of the female student base and 80% of the male apply to institutions of higher education during their final year of secondary school. This is especially impressive in that only primary school is compulsory in the UAE. These high-rates of academic retention are in many respects reflective of the ongoing efforts of UAE’s Ministry of Education to improve the quality of education at all grade levels. Specifically, Information Technology skills are offered at many public and private institutions of higher education. The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid IT Education Project requires that there is one computer available per university student. The program also incorporates online courses in 40 high schools across the UAE. Thirteen thousand students pass through the online program each year.
While private schools both at-home and abroad are a popular option for post-secondary students, many pupils choose UAE’s Higher Colleges of Technology. These schools emphasize vocational and technical skills, and prepare students for both local and international business success by focusing on career training. To compliment the efforts of the career education institutes, the government works tirelessly to increase employment opportunities for students upon graduation. Thus far this initiative has generated careers in banking, insurance, and human resources.
For students hoping to receive a high-quality university education from the comfort of their home, many international online education universities have developed region-specific programs in the Middle East. Students in the United Arab Emirates can increasingly access online education programs from preeminent global universities such as the University of Phoenix while maintaining necessary ties to their country, family, and religion.
Written by Amberly Scott in conjunction with Careers.org, the leading career resource center on th