King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), originally established in 1963 as the College of Petroleum and Minerals, is a leading public research university located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. Founded by King Saud bin Abdulalziz, the university has gained prestigious status, particularly in the fields of science, engineering, business, and management. KFUPM is recognised as one of the foremost academic institutions in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council member states.
In the 2022 QS World University Rankings, KFUPM secured the 163rd position globally and was ranked as the third-best university in the Arab region. Notably, the university achieved the remarkable feat of being ranked 3rd globally by the American National Academy of Inventors for granting US Utility Patents in 2022. Additionally, KFUPM stands out on the global academic stage, with 81 of its researchers being included in the list of the top 2 percent most-cited scientists across various disciplines, according to Stanford University.
KFUPM actively engages in impactful research collaborations with renowned international institutions such as MIT, Georgia Tech, Caltech, and Stanford University. The university has also cultivated strong partnerships and connections with industry leaders, including Saudi Aramco, SABIC, electric and telecommunications companies, local financial institutions, and government entities.
Established on September 23, 1963, by a Saudi royal decree, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) has emerged as a distinguished institution in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, and North Africa. Initially known as the College of Petroleum and Minerals (CPM), its founding mission was to provide advanced education in the critical domains of petroleum and minerals, recognising their significance as vital natural resources in the country. The inaugural cohort, comprising 67 students, commenced their studies on September 23, 1964, marking the beginning of the university's academic journey.
Originally designed by CRS Design Associates, architects and engineers from Houston, Texas, the institution expanded its scope and transitioned to university status in 1975. This transformation facilitated the inclusion of diverse academic disciplines, encompassing science, engineering, technology, business, and management. In 1984, the university introduced the Program of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Notably, in 1986, the institution was renamed King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals to honor the influential monarch.
Over the years, KFUPM has evolved, witnessing substantial growth in enrollment, with more than 10,000 students in the 2021 academic year and over 39,000 graduates since its inception. In 2019, a pivotal transformation plan was initiated, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader vision to transition from a resource-centric economy to a diversified knowledge economy, positioning the kingdom as an active participant in the global digital landscape.
A significant milestone in KFUPM's history occurred with the implementation of this transformation plan, emphasising the inclusion of female students in engineering and technical academic programs. In 2019, both male and female students were equally accepted into new postgraduate programs. Subsequently, in 2021, admissions opened for female students at the undergraduate level based on merit.
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) is widely recognised for its academic programs encompassing Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Master of Engineering, Master of Business Administration, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The university's commitment to academic excellence is underscored by international accreditations from prestigious bodies such as ABET, AACSB, and the national accrediting body NCAAA.
In response to the evolving landscape of the digital economy and emerging fields, KFUPM has modernised its academic offerings since 2020. The introduction of undergraduate concentrations (CX) and professional master's degrees (MX) reflects a multidisciplinary approach aligned with the demands of the contemporary job market. With a strong emphasis on the digital foundation, the university has incorporated 38 undergraduate concentrations, 32 one-year master's degrees, and established 20 interdisciplinary research centers.
To meet the dynamic demands of the job market, KFUPM has revamped its 35 undergraduate degrees to include the study of modern programming languages, data science, big data analysis, artificial intelligence, machine learning, business, and entrepreneurship. This innovative approach ensures that students are well-equipped with a common language rooted in artificial intelligence, meeting the high-skill requirements of the discipline.
Recognising the importance of evolving instructional methods, KFUPM is actively transitioning some of its courses to inquiry-based learning (IBL). This approach encourages research on topics, fostering engaging class discussions, debates, and interactive question-and-answer sessions. By moving away from traditional lecturing, KFUPM aims to enhance student retention through increased engagement and participation.
KFUPM's commitment to preparing students for meaningful contributions is evident in its 38 undergraduate concentrations, offering students the opportunity to earn a major in a specific discipline while specialising in an area of interest. Concentrations such as Hydrogen Mobility, Renewable Energy and Energy Storage, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Business Analytics, Robotics, and Autonomous Systems are examples of programs in high demand and well-received by the industry.
For professionals and entrepreneurs seeking to advance in their respective fields, KFUPM offers 32 one-year professional master's degrees. These programs cover a range of specialised fields, including Artificial Intelligence, Supply Chain Management, Quantum Computing, Smart and Sustainable Cities, providing valuable skills to enhance productivity and contribute significantly to organisational advancement.
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