Studying at the University of Kurdistan
Kurdistan University is one of the top public universities in western Iran. It is located in the city of Sanandaj, in Kurdistan Province. Because of shared language and cultural ties, as well as its proximity to Iraq, this university can be a good choice for students from that country. Other advantages of Kurdistan University include its geographical location and pleasant climate during different seasons, distinguished professors and faculty members, and affordable tuition and living costs. This article provides a general introduction to the university.
Introduction
Kurdistan University began its activities in 1974 as the Sanandaj Higher Educational School under the Educational Deputy. At first, the center admitted students in Mathematics and English language fields. In 1980, the school was transformed into a Teacher Training Center and came under the supervision of the Ministry of Education. In 1985, with the approval of the Higher Education Development Council, the center became the Sanandaj Teacher Training Faculty and was placed under the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology. Finally, in 1991, it was promoted to Kurdistan University and has since continued its activities as an independent university in Kurdistan Province.
Rank of University of Kurdistan
According to the Times Higher Education ranking (https://www.timeshighereducation.com/search?search=university%20of%20kurdistan) in 2025, Kurdistan University is ranked between 1001 and 1200 globally.
In the latest 2023 Shanghai Subject Rankings, Kurdistan University achieved the following results:
- In Natural Sciences, specifically in Geology, it ranked 301–400 in the world and holds the 1st place in Iran.
- In Engineering Sciences, particularly in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, it ranked 301–400 globally and 2nd place in Iran.
- In Biological Sciences, specifically in Agricultural Sciences, it ranked 301–400 worldwide and shared the 3rd place in Iran alongside Shiraz University.
Faculties and Research Centers
Kurdistan University has 9 faculties and 9 research centers, playing an important role in scientific fields across the country.
Faculties
- Faculty of Language and Literature
- Faculty of Agriculture
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Basic Sciences
- Faculty of Art and Architecture
- Faculty of Natural Resources
- Faculty of Basic Sciences and Engineering (Bijar Campus)
- Faculty of Industry and Mining (Qorveh Campus)
Research Centers
- Medicinal Plants Improvement and Development Research Center
- Water Science and Engineering Research Center
- Strawberry Breeding and Cultivation Research Center
- Microgrid and Smart Grid Research Center
- Kurdistan Studies Research Center
- Zagros Northern Forestry Research and Development Center
- High-Performance Computing Center
- Distributed Energy Production Research Group
- Scientific Hub for Urban Regeneration and Rehabilitation
- APA Center
- Nanotechnology Research Center
- Family Pathology and Education Research Group
Welfare Facilities
The welfare facilities at Kurdistan University are excellent, making it one of the most popular and busiest universities in western Iran. A notable feature of the university is its Persian language center for non-Persian speakers, as well as specialized English, German, and French language courses taught in cooperation with experienced university professors. This language program sets Kurdistan University apart from other universities in Iran. Other welfare facilities include well-equipped student dormitories for both female and male students, sports halls, and a swimming pool. The university also offers a digital library and a book sales system, a library with over 126,000 Kurdish, Persian, and English sources, a central laboratory, and health and counseling centers.
Academic and Cultural Journals
- Kurdish Literature Research Journal
- Marketing Management Research Journal
- Reading Research Quarterly
- Research-Based Teaching Quarterly
- School Management Biannual
- Family Counseling and Psychotherapy Quarterly
- Urban Studies Quarterly
- Ronahi Journal (Specialized Journal of Jurisprudence and Law)
- GaShtiar Journal
Address:
Kurdistan University, Pasdaran Boulevard, Sanandaj, Kurdistan Province, Iran.