Department of Art and Design | American University of Sharjah

Department head's message

Our students are trained to be design leaders. They learn to design for the needs and aspirations of people and communities by embedding themselves in the regional, social and cultural context of the region.
Zinka Bejtic

The digital revolution has transformed the world and brought about a fundamental shift in human perception and range of technical and social innovations—the most dynamic, expansive forces in the world today.


Our three programs—visual communication, multimedia design and design management—prepare students to contribute to the public discourse on design and take part in shaping the rapidly growing discipline. Our students become creative leaders, unlocking new worlds of potential through mastery of design thinking, innovation, communication design and digital technologies.


The department is recognized as a leading design school in the region. Our internationally acclaimed faculty mentors inspire the discoveries and growth of their students, empowering them to gain hands-on experience with the kind of projects they would encounter in the real world.


Close interaction between our faculty and students and with other classmates is an essential part of the creative process of our programs. Being a people-centered institution, we believe that students and faculty should work alongside one another within the setting in which the line between teacher and students becomes progressively blurred as the studies progress. This approach results in a close relationship between faculty and students, and fosters a variety of creative expressions and aesthetic directions.


Our students have a vision and make choices to align with that vision. Each class becomes a community, and each choice is a commitment with a beautiful story of discovery to build upon. Our alumni are leaders who are re-imagining the future, addressing global challenges and generating tangible changes through creative practice. They are in great demand and work in prestigious agencies, companies and government. Many have started successful companies and ventures or are studying at the most prestigious graduate schools.


The world needs your creativity. Join the Department of Art and Design family and learn alongside the best in practice. Build your knowledge and develop your craft together with other incredible students, and prepare to become a leader in one of the exciting career paths you can choose after completing the programs.


I've been with the department for the last nine years, and it's been fascinating to watch it progress, expand and accomplish significant milestones.


I am excited for you to join us and to see where the journey takes us.


Zinka Bejtic


Head of Department

News

CAAD students recognized on the Dean’s List for academic excellence

The College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at American University of Sharjah has recognized 245 undergraduate students on the Dean’s List for...
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Five decades on, AUS symposium highlights the enduring impact of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture

American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently welcomed leading scholars, practitioners and students from across the Arab world at a two-day symposium examining...
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AUS alumnae-led film selected for Red Sea International Film Festival with Netflix-backed support

A short film led by American University of Sharjah (AUS) alumnae has been selected for the Red Sea International Film Festival, marking a significant...
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Past Through Here: AUS students curate exhibition featuring iconic works from the Barjeel Art Foundation

Exhibition opened to the public on February 1st at Maraya Arts Center, Sharjah Credit: AUS student Salma Hilal. Students from American University of Sharjah (...
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AUS filmmaker extends international winning streak with top awards in Los Angeles and Dubai

Photo caption: Assistant Professor Mohammed Mamdouh and writer–producer Jumana Radi pose with Hollywood film producer John Morrissey during the Los Angeles...
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Events

06
Jun

Spring 2026 Commencement

University City Hall
June 6, 2026
10:00 - 10:00
Invitation Only
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Dina Khorchid

This clarity is what CAAD gave me, along with a great network of friends and colleagues, a curiosity to always search for inspiration and to value the importance of the creative process, even in our fast-paced work environment.

Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
College of Architecture, Art and Design

Mahya Soltani

Dubai design firms are always looking for CAAD graduates. This is because they are usually equipped with great portfolios, an exceptional sense of dedication and enthusiasm and a broad skill-set.

 

Bachelor of Science in Film and New Media Design
College of Architecture, Art and Design

Rawan Mahmoud

The design management program focuses on every aspect of the interaction with a product, service or market as it defines user experiences. This gave me ability to develop skills and knowledge in management and leadership within design disciplines.

 

Bachelor of Science in Design Management
College of Architecture, Art and Design

Lujain Abulfaraj

I think one of the main things that CAAD instills in you as a designer is to be a doer, to trust your gut feeling and to forever stay curious. The professors’ support has continued even after graduating. To this day they are available to help in every way possible. I’m extremely grateful to all of them.

Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
College of Architecture, Art and Design

Jomard Jamil

After experiencing the variety of art and creativity that AUS had to offer, I knew I wanted to continue pursuing video making. CAAD has provided me not only the tools to further follow my passions, but also the luxury of time: to be able to figure out what I would like to pursue in life.

Bachelor of Science in Film and New Media Design
College of Architecture, Art and Design
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