Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Elbassuoni, Shady (Computer Science, FAS) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Abu Salem, Fatima (Computer Science, FAS)
Assaf, Rida (Computer Science, FAS)
Awad, Mariette (Electrical and Computer Engineering, MSFEA)
El Asmar, Khalil (Health Sciences, FHS)
Makary, Mireille (Business, OSB)
Taleb, Sirine (Business, OSB)
Barakat, Karim (Philosophy, FAS)
|
General Description
The online professional graduate diploma in artificial intelligence and data science is the first of its kind in the MENA region, providing you with the skills needed to design and implement AI and data science applications. Unlike other online programs, this diploma uncovers AI and data science concepts in several contexts while focusing on regionally relevant applications and the integration of ethics as a core component. Students from all backgrounds interested in being part of this exciting field in tech can join this diploma.
The diploma is a joint program offered by the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA) and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) in collaboration with faculty members from Suliman S. Olayan School of Business (OSB) and the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS).
Eligibility
The program is intended for fresh graduates and working professionals from all backgrounds interested in joining the fastest growing field in tech and seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the fields of AI & data science. To be eligible for this program, applicants should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. In addition, students must demonstrate basic proficiency in computer programming, statistics, linear algebra, and calculus. Students who do not have this background can take three preparatory credits that do not count towards the degree requirements of the diploma prior to taking the required diploma courses.
These 3 courses are:
- Introduction to Python Programming (1 credit)
- Statistics (1 credit)
- Mathematics of Machine Learning (1 credit)
Student admission recommendations require the approval of the faculty graduate studies committee (FGSC).
Admissions Requirements
Applicants should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. Applicants to this diploma may provide evidence for RUSE by submitting a satisfactory and valid score for one of the following tests: AUB-EN, TOEFL, IELTS(Academic), or Duolingo.
|
Test |
Minimum Score |
Validity |
| AUB-EN | 32 | 1 year |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 2 years |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | 2 years |
| Duolingo | 120 | 2 years
|
Important Note: Applicants who have graduated from a university where English is the primary language of instruction may be exempted from demonstrating RUSE (Readiness for University Study in English).
Structure and Program Requirements
The AI & data science diploma will require the successful completion of 12 credits (7 courses) as follows:
- Four mandatory (core) courses
- Three elective courses, as offered by the program
Course Requirements
Core Courses
Students are required to complete the following 7.5 credits of core courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Data Science | 2 |
| Machine Learning | 2
|
| Deep Learning | 2
|
| AI Ethics | 1.5
|
Elective Courses
Students are required to complete the following 4.5 credits by choosing 3 elective courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Arabic Natural Language Processing | 1.5 |
| AI for Health | 1.5
|
| Business Analytics | 1.5
|
| Data Analytics for Public Policy | 1.5 |
| Large Language Models | 1.5
|
Course Descriptions
Prerequisite Courses
Mathematics of Machine Learning 1 cr.
This is a preparatory course that provides students with the mathematical background needed for data science and machine learning. Students will be introduced to the concepts of linear algebra and calculus used in machine learning and data science.
Introduction to Python Programming 1 cr.
This course is a preparatory course that covers the fundamental constructs of the python programming language and introduces some useful applications. The course assumes no background or experience with programming and aims to train students to write python code, which is necessary for them to develop AI applications using many currently popular data science and machine learning libraries.
Statistics 1 cr.
This is a preparatory course that covers the fundamental concepts of probability and statistics central to the methods used in machine learning and data science.
Core Courses
Machine Learning 2 cr.
This course covers the mathematical underpinnings of machine learning and the practical know-how needed to effectively train, test, and deploy machine-learning models to real world problems.
Data Science 2 cr.
This introductory course explores the output expected of data scientists and equips students with the ability to learn from data to gain predictions and insights. Through real world examples of wide interest, several facets of the data science pipeline and lifecycle using both the R and python programming languages will be introduced.
Deep Learning 2 cr.
This course provides an overview of deep learning methods and their related applications. It focuses on applied deep learning and includes lab assignments, practical use cases, as well as a project that explores the applications in deep learning.
AI Ethics 1.5 cr.
This course critically examines the various ethical issues related to AI such as safety and security, privacy, transparency, accountability, bias, and fairness, and reviews the technical methods to identify and address these issues.
Elective Courses
Arabic Natural Language Processing 1.5 cr.
This course focuses on Arabic natural language processing (NLP) and covers its foundational concepts such as tokenization, part-of-speech tagging, syntactic parsing, word sense disambiguation, and semantic representations. It also uncovers NLP’s applications including information retrieval, machine translation, sentiment and emotion analysis, dialogue systems, and question answering.
AI for Health 1.5 cr.
This course will expose students to AI applications in epidemiology and healthcare provision. Throughout this course students will learn to apply the proper AI technique to data science projects in the context of health and epidemiology. The course will cover AI and its related technologies, such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. In addition, the course will also touch on the ethical considerations of using AI in health, and how to integrate AI into existing health systems. After completing this course, students will be equipped to identify, analyze, and solve data-driven healthcare problems using AI.
Business Analytics 1.5 cr.
This course explores the growing important role of data in business and covers the key concepts of customer analytics with quantitative strategies to answer different business questions. The aim is to demystify the role of data and AI in impacting customer behavior. Students will learn about AI-powered applications that can enhance the customer journey. The course utilizes relevant theory, empirical analysis, and practical examples to develop the key learning points. By the end of this course, students will have the ability to envision how data, AI and machine learning can be used to enhance the business. The course utilizes relevant theory, empirical analysis, and practical examples to develop the key learning points.
Data Analytics for Public Policy 1.5 cr.
This course aims to expand on previously acquired principles in machine learning and data science to work through applications that demonstrate social impact and data driven decision-making in the field of public policy. Using publicly available datasets and a mix of tools covering exploratory analysis, predictive analytics, spatial analytics, and NLP, this course will walk students through real-life, practical examples that demonstrate the effectiveness of those techniques in the public realm.
Large Language Models 1.5 cr.
This course explores the foundations, architectures, and applications of Large Language Models (LLMs), focusing on transformers, self-supervised learning, and fine-tuning techniques. Students will gain hands-on experience developing generative AI applications, including prompt engineering, retrieval-augmented generation, and deployment strategies. Ethical considerations, and real-world case studies will be integrated to ensure a practical understanding of LLMs.
Sustainability in the Built Environment Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Saad, Walid (Chemical Engineering and Advanced Energy, MSFEA) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Saad, Walid (Chemical Engineering and Advanced Energy, MSFEA)
Srour, Issam (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Yehya, Alissar (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Yeretzian, Aram (Architecture and Design, MSFEA)
Zurayk, Rami (Landscape Design and Ecosystem Management, MSFEA)
|
General Description
The sustainability in the built environment online graduate professional diploma provides you with the fundamental skills to tackle the main challenges to the sustainability of buildings, neighborhoods, and infrastructure, particularly in the Arab region.
Tailored for engineers and architects, this program will equip you with the essential skills and tools needed to design sustainable projects to contribute to the region’s sustainable development journey.
The diploma is offered by the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA).
Eligibility
The program is intended for engineers, architects, and planners who are designing and constructing building systems, tackling urbanization challenges to design sustainable neighborhoods, creating green designs and materials for roads, bridges, and supporting infrastructure.
To be eligible for this program, applicants should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. Student admission recommendations require the approval of the faculty graduate studies committee (FGSC).
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to any graduate program other than AUB graduates and graduates of recognized colleges or universities in North America, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. See Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) under The Office of Admissions section.
Structure and Program Requirements
The sustainability in the built environment diploma will require the successful completion of 12 credits (6 courses) as follows:
- 5 mandatory (core) courses
- 2 elective courses, as offered by the program
Course Requirements
Core Courses
Students are required to complete the following 10 credits of core courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Socio-Ecological Systems and Sustainability in the MENA Region | 2
|
| Life Cycle Assessment in Engineering | 2
|
| Construction Materials Circularity | 2
|
| Environmentally Responsive New and Existing Buildings | 2
|
| Resilient Buildings' Design | 2
|
Elective Courses
Students can either go for the Capstone Project route and complete the 2 parts (Part 1 & 2) (2 credits in total) or they can take the Building Rating Systems course (2 credits in total):
|
Course |
Credits |
| Capstone Project - Part 1 | 1
|
| Capstone Project - Part 2 | 1
|
| Building Rating Systems | 2
|
Course Descriptions
Core Courses
Socio-Ecological Systems and Sustainability in the MENA Region 2 cr.
This course offers a comprehensive examination of socio-ecological systems within the MENA region, approached through the lens of systems thinking. Students will delve into the basics of systems thinking and its crucial application to understanding and addressing the interconnectedness of social and ecological factors, fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental challenges.
Life Cycle Assessment in Engineering 2 cr.
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method and tools, and its critical role in informing environmental design within the built environment, due to the complex range of materials, energy sources, and processes required to construct and manage buildings and infrastructure systems. Given the unique regional urbanization challenges, understanding the whole lifecycle implications of building projects is crucial for both current urban centers and future developments. Students will delve deep into LCA methodologies, from defining objectives to interpreting results, and will gain hands-on experience in performing LCA on real-world projects.
Construction Materials Circularity 2 cr.
This course discusses the regional challenges (climatic, geographic, scarcity, cultural, socio-economic) affecting construction materials flow, availability, and circularity, and highlights the impact of governance, development plans, and behavioral changes on resource management and waste accumulation. It introduces the importance of circularity, cradle-to-cradle design, and digital technologies in addressing construction materials’ challenges and creating social, economic, and ecological value. It also provides learners with the mindset, tools, and knowledge to assess and achieve the circularity of systems and processes in the built environment.
Environmentally Responsive New and Existing Buildings 2 cr.
This module focuses on the notions and key drivers for decarbonization in the built environment. Based on the principles of integrative building delivery process, students will acquire knowledge regarding environmental approaches to the design (or retrofit), operation and recyclable dimensions of buildings. Case studies will be offered to demonstrate real-world applications in the MENA/Gulf and global regions.
Resilient Buildings’ Design 2 cr.
In the arid and semi-arid climates of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, building and neighborhood design faces unique challenges, primarily centered around thermal resilience against overheating and the imperative for sustainability. This interdisciplinary course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to design buildings and neighborhoods that are not only resilient to the extreme thermal conditions of the MENA region but also sustainable through the integration of energy-efficient systems.
Elective Courses
Capstone Project – Parts 1 & 2 (2 cr.)
The capstone project course provides students with an opportunity to integrate their knowledge of sustainability principles and practices within the context of the built environment. Students will work on real-world projects that address sustainability challenges in the design, construction, and operation of buildings and infrastructure. Through this hands-on experience, students will enhance their problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills while contributing to sustainable solutions in the built environment.
Building Rating Systems 2 cr.
This course focuses on the key elements of building rating systems, namely LEED and ESTIDAMA/Pearl Building Rating System, and the implementation of sustainability principles throughout the building’s lifecycle using these prevalent rating frameworks. It will also cover the certification process to prepare you to sit for the LEED GA exam.
Cybersecurity Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Ali, Chehab (ECE, MSFEA) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Ali, Chehab (ECE, MSFEA)
Hussein, Bakri (ECE, MSFEA)
Khaled, Dessouki (ECE, MSFEA)
Ayman, Tajeddine (ECE, MSFEA)
Ghalayini, Iman (Landscape, MSFEA)
|
General Description
The online graduate professional diploma in cybersecurity will equip you with essential highly in demand technical skills needed to take on cybersecurity roles confidently.
The program will cover a broad range of the current and emerging areas of cybersecurity, including computer and network security, software security, data and information security, cloud security, mobile platform security, and IoT security, as well as applied cryptography and computer forensics.
The diploma is offered by the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA).
Eligibility
Admission to the program follows the university’s policy on Graduate Professional Diploma Programs. Admitted students should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. Applicants will need to have a basic knowledge in IT and programming (any programming language will be appropriate).
The program is mainly for:
- Fresh graduates of IT/computer science, or engineering programs seeking to expand their career opportunities.
- Working Professionals in IT (at all seniority levels) looking to assume cybersecurity roles.
- Applications from professionals with a different academic background, but with strong interest in cybersecurity, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to any graduate program other than AUB graduates and graduates of recognized colleges or universities in North America, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. See Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) under The Office of Admissions section.
Structure and Program Requirements
The cybersecurity diploma will require the successful completion of 12 credits (6 courses) as follows:
- Six mandatory (core) courses
Course Requirements
Core Courses
Students are required to complete the following 12 credits of core courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Fundamentals for Cybersecurity | 2
|
| Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities | 2
|
| Network Security 1 | 2
|
| Ethical Hacking | 2
|
| Cryptography and PKI infrastructure | 2
|
| Network Security 2 | 2
|
Course Descriptions
Core Courses
Fundamentals for Cybersecurity 2 cr.
This course introduces students to cybersecurity fundamental topics that are essential for other diploma’s courses. It introduces cybersecurity terminologies and gives a quick overview of the CIA triad, the usability triangle, The Bell-La Padula Model, Biba model, basic coverage of security attack vectors, threat actors, Pyramid of Pain, Identification, and prevention frameworks such as Cyber Kill Chain, phases of attacks frameworks such as the Unified Kill Chain, the Diamond model & MITRE. It offers overview of basic networking concepts, types of networks, and networking devices, underpinned by a dive into the OSI and TCP/IP models. In addition, it covers basic operating systems concepts. On a practical level, the course covers scripting languages useful for other courses such as Python, Linux terminal and BASH scripting, Windows Command line usage and PowerShell.
Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities 2 cr.
This course covers threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities. The objectives of this course are to ensure that students can understand and explain different types of security compromises, the types of actors involved, and the concepts of penetration testing and vulnerability scanning.
Network Security 1 2 cr.
This course focuses on creating network administrators who are trained on protecting, detecting and responding to threats on the network. It covers the fundamentals of creating a secure networking environment using firewalls (traditional and next generation), IDS, IPS, VPNs. Students will know how to use standard security tools to locate and fix security leaks in a computer network and will understand a variety of cryptographic algorithms and protocols underlying network security applications.
Ethical Hacking 2 cr.
This course covers the fundamentals of ethical hacking and penetration testing. It includes topics such as reconnaissance & Open-Source Intelligence, enumeration, scanning, and a myriad of exploitation & post exploitation techniques, as well as countermeasures to protect systems from threats. It provides hands-on exercises and labs with real-world examples and scenarios. The course introduces many tools & techniques such as port scanners, vulnerability scanners, password cracking, ARP spoofers, keyloggers, backdoors, SQL/Command injection, XSS, CSRF, IDOR, Denial of Service Attacks (DOS), traffic redirection, session hijacking among many others. Students will learn how to set a hacking environment using Kali Linux & will practice penetration testing on a myriad of victim virtual machines. The course covers as well reporting and the ethical aspect of hacking as well as most important legal considerations.
Cryptography and PKI infrastructure 2 cr.
This course provides an overview of encryption techniques. It covers block ciphers and the data encryption standard, finite fields, advanced encryption standard, confidentiality using symmetric encryption, public-key cryptography, key management, hash and MAC algorithms, digital signatures, and authentication applications.
Network Security 2 2 cr.
This course covers advanced topics in network security such as network virtualization security, cloud and wireless network security and network/traffic indicators of compromise, attacks, and exposures. This course also explores the necessary tools, techniques, and concepts of threat intelligence and incident response. It addresses both emerging technologies and research topics.
Project Management Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Dimashkieh, Farah (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Abdul-Malak, Assem (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Bdeir, Fadl (Industrial and Engineering Management, MSFEA)
Dimashkieh, Farah (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Kalash, Mayssa (Electrical and Computer Engineering, MSFEA)
Khoury, Hiam (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Kiomjian, David (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Maddah, Bacel (Industrial and Engineering Management, MSFEA)
Moukadem, Imad (Industrial and Engineering Management, MSFEA)
Nehme, Nabil (Industrial Engineering and Management)
Srour, Issam (Civil and Environmental Engineering, MSFEA)
Saad, Youssef (Industrial Engineering and Management)
|
General Description
The online project management diploma is a program that provides students with a complete understanding of managing complex projects and equips them with the needed skills to organize, plan, and execute projects within a set budget and timelines. The program establishes and/or further advances the know-how in resource management, finance, risk analysis and mitigation, and project delivery approaches.
Eligibility
The program is intended for professionals and individuals interested in and/or involved in project management. To be eligible for this program, applicants should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. Student admission recommendations require the approval of the faculty graduate studies committee (FGSC).
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to any graduate program other than AUB graduates and graduates of recognized colleges or universities in North America, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. See Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) under the Office of Admissions section.
Structure and Program Requirements
The PM diploma will require the successful completion of 12 credits (6 courses) as follows:
- One mandatory (core) course
- Five elective courses, as offered by the program
Course Requirements
Core Courses
Students are required to complete the following 2 credits of core courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Fundamentals of Project Management | 2
|
Elective Courses
Students are required to complete the following 8 credits of elective courses:
|
Course |
Credits |
| Project Planning Scheduling and Control | 2
|
| Project Deliverance and Contracts (now: Procurement and Supply Chain in Project Management) | 2
|
| Accounting & Finance for Project Managers | 2
|
| Project Leadership & Communication | 2
|
| Lean Project Management | 2
|
| Procurement and Supply Chain in Project Management | 2
|
| Agile Software Project Management (now: Software Project Management) | 2
|
| Disputes Resolution on Projects (now: Conflict Resolution in Project Management) | 2
|
| Project Risk Management | 2
|
| PMP® Certification Exam Preparation Course | 2
|
Course Descriptions
Core Courses
Fundamentals of Project Management 2 cr.
This course exposes students to the fundamentals of project management principles and practices. Students will acquire the necessary tools, and techniques to plan, execute, and control projects to deliver successful outcomes. The course will introduce students to project charter development, scope selection, delivery strategies, project planning, cost estimation, project controls, staffing, and quality management. The course exposes students to the principles of agile project management.
Elective Courses
Project Planning Scheduling and Control 2 cr.
Explore technical and managerial challenges of project management and address issues related to project selection techniques, project planning, budgeting, risk analysis, resource management, project monitoring, and termination. Understand how project management decisions are reached, what tradeoffs are made, and how outcomes depend on the underlying situation.
Procurement and Supply Chain in Project Management 2 cr.
Learn to tackle issues related to the various approaches that may be suitable for the delivery of large construction projects. Understand the risks inherent in the undertaking of large projects and comprehend how certain identified risks can be addressed through the proper formation of project contracts.
Accounting & Finance for Project Managers 2 cr.
Acquire the basics of financial accounting, the investment process, and financial markets, and gain a flavor of Financial Engineering applications such as pricing and portfolio structuring of bonds, capital budgeting, cash matching, dynamic investment management, and firm valuation. This course will prepare you to handle more complex financial instruments with uncertain cash flows, such as stocks, options, and futures.
Project Leadership & Communication 2 cr.
This course will help future and practicing project managers become better team leaders by sharpening their skills and improving their knowledge in key areas of leadership, communication, motivation, expectation setting, and problem-solving. Participants will be equipped with practical knowledge, skills, and tools that empower them to lead teams effectively for different skills.
Lean Project Management 2 cr.
Get introduced to the fundamental Lean principles, practices, and tools and their application to a wide range of organizations and sectors to improve quality, financial performance, and customer satisfaction. Learn about the Toyota Production System that underlay the Lean concepts, the Lean Six Sigma principles to project management, and many process improvement techniques.
Procurement and Supply Chain in Project Management 2 cr.
This course introduces the essential principles of supply chain management, covering concepts, stages, and main flows of goods, information, and finances. Practicing and future project managers will evaluate supply chain design strategies, address challenges, and develop resilient networks. The course also includes project procurement processes, make-or-buy decisions, contract types, push and pull systems, integration strategies, and performance metrics. Additionally, participants will analyze different production strategies, such as Engineer to Order (ETO), Make to Order (MTO), Make to Stock (MTS), and Assemble to Order (ATO), to optimize supply chain performance and achieve competitive advantage.
Software Project Management 2 cr.
Understand the fundamental principles underlying software management and economics through an overview of traditional software development and management strategies, contrasted with iterative and incremental development techniques covering the full spectrum of agile methods, including Scrum, extreme programming, lean and feature driven development.
Conflict Resolution in Project Management 2 cr.
Understand construction contract conditions governing claims and disputes, with a focus on claim evolvement and administration, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, and amicable settlement.
Project Risk Management 2 cr.
Engage in an active discovery of risk management principles and develop an awareness of the challenges, the tools, and the process of designing and implementing a risk management program, with application to industry projects.
PMP® Certification Exam Preparation Course 2 cr.
This course exposes students to the Project Management Body of Knowledge in its latest revision (2021) and to the newly introduced Standard for Project Management, both as issued by PMI. It equips students with the requisite knowledge, skills, and competencies to sit for the PMP® Certification Exam. For this purpose, students will also be exposed to a large number of exam preparation questions. The course will fulfill the 35 learning hours required as a prerequisite for PMP® certification. Students will need to acquire the PMBOK® 2021 edition and extensively practice exam questions prior to sitting for the test. “PMP” is a registered mark of Project Management Institute, Inc.
UX/UI Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Berro, Maher (Architecture and Design, MSFEA) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Berro, Maher (Architecture and Design, MSFEA)
Saber, Romy (Architecture and Design, MSFEA)
|
| Instructors | Chikhany, Lara; El Khatib, Tarek; Haidar, Sabah
|
General Description
Step into the world of User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design through our comprehensive UX/UI Professional Diploma. This program is built on the solid foundation of ‘human centric design’ principles, offering skill-focused training that spans from in-depth user research to the crafting of sitemaps and wireframes.
Benefit from an engaging program that combines self-paced online modules with interactive live sessions led by regional industry experts.
Eligibility
This program is intended for:
- A professional working in tech and design agencies.
- A graphic/UI designer or instructional designer looking to enhance their expertise.
- An entrepreneur aiming to transform their concept(s) into concrete prototypes for investor presentations.
- A young professional seeking to gain a new highly in-demand skill.
To be eligible for this program, applicants should have an undergraduate bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from AUB or other recognized institutions of higher learning. Student admission recommendations require the approval of the faculty graduate studies committee (FGSC).
Admission Requirements
Applicants to any graduate program other than AUB graduates and graduates of recognized colleges or universities in North America, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. See Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) under the Office of Admissions section.
Structure and Program Requirements
The UX/UI diploma will require the successful completion of 13 credits (7 courses) for Non-designers and 12 credits (6 courses) for designers:
Course Requirements
|
Course |
Credits |
| Prerequisite for Non-designers - Design Principles | 1
|
| Design Research for Innovation and Change | 2
|
| Interaction Design I - Methodologies and UX Processes | 2
|
| Interaction Design II - Web & Mobile User Experience | 2
|
| Interaction Design III - Designing Intuitive User Interfaces for Web and Mobile | 2
|
| Interaction Design IV - Conducting Usability Testing and Optimization | 2
|
| UX Management Strategy and Tactics | 2
|
Course Descriptions
Design Principles 1 cr.
Creating intuitive visual designs, user interfaces (UI), and design elements is essential to emphasize the utility of any product, integrate and evoke users’ motions when interacting with or using the product and its interface. This online course aims to prepare beginners and non-designers to have a critical eye while exploring design theories, tools, and practices. This online course aims to prepare beginners and non-designers to develop a critical eye while exploring design theories, tools, and practices. It brings a design-centric approach to products and teaches the principles of designs from the perspective of a nondesigner looking to enhance their skills’ set and collaborate on interactive projects. The course outlines the main principles of design, demonstrates the stages of designs, teaches the best design practices, and provides insights on how to start understanding design through the lenses of designers.
Design Research for Innovation and Change 2 cr.
The ever-changing nature of today’s organizations and the evolving needs of individuals in response to 21st-century complex challenges call for innovative and human-centered problem-solving approaches. This online course is tailored to support aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals interested in exploring innovation practices within organizations. The course is carefully crafted to provide students with human-centered design research methods and creative problem-solving tools. Its primary goal is to enhance participants’ capacity to frame stakeholders’ needs, identify opportunities for organizational change, and ultimately generate innovative and viable solutions to address these challenges.
Interaction Design I - Methodologies and UX Processes 2 cr.
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of User Experience (UX) design and the processes involved in designing interactive products. It covers the principles, methodologies, and processes of UX design, teaching students to apply human-centered design and design thinking methods to create effective user experiences using empathy at the core. Starting with research, learners engage in heuristic analysis, develop information architecture, generate sitemaps, conduct card-sorting, create personas, map user journeys, draft user cases and scenarios, identify user flows, and delve into wireframing and low-fidelity prototyping.
Interaction Design II - Web & Mobile User Experience 2 cr.
This course empowers students to design user-focused interfaces in a professional format. It covers the core principles and distinctions in designing for web versus designing for mobile. Students learn to identify, focus, and improve interaction design, information architecture, usability, and user journeys. Leveraging an iterative process rooted in human behavior, psychology, mental models, and cognitive science, they acquire the skills to design purposeful and context-aware interfaces.
Interaction Design III - Designing Intuitive User Interfaces for Web & Mobile 2 cr.
In this course, students delve into the essentials and industry standards of user interface design (UI). It emphasizes the pivotal role of UI and provides an overview of its fundamental theories and concepts. The course facilitates the discovery of UI elements and components, along with the main tools and techniques used. Students gain proficiency in methods for analyzing, critiquing, designing, and tailoring user interface solutions for both web and mobile applications as well as heuristic evaluation to reflect and measure business, users, and usability goals.
Interaction Design IV - Conducting Usability Testing and Optimization 2 cr.
This course tackles usability testing and optimization as methods to evaluate and enhance the user experience. With a focus on achieving ease of use, efficiency, effectiveness, and user satisfaction, students learn how to plan, test, and optimize the usability testing for the interface or product at hand. They closely examine all features, interactive components, and visual elements with a representative group of the target audience. They learn the process of determining, analyzing, reporting, and ultimately ensuring an optimal user experience, ensuring that the target users can effortlessly and intuitively engage with the user interfaces.
UX Management Strategy and Tactics 2 cr.
In this course, students learn the intricacies of UX management and the specific strategies essential for effective project management. Beyond design thinking, they explore how UX strategy influences businesses and explore various methodologies within product development, user experience functions, and organizational models. They learn how to use acquired principles and concepts such as visibility, desirability, findability, constraints, mental models, mapping, and feedback, as effective strategies within organizations and/ or projects processes.
Entrepreneurship & Innovation Graduate Professional Diploma – Online
| Coordinator | Tabsh, Hisham (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean's Office) |
| Program Teaching Faculty | Daou, Alain (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Itani, Mona (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Khaouli, Leila (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Makarem, Yasmine (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Salamoun, Randa (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Tabsh, Hisham (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Tannir, Lina (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
Zablith, Fouad (Suliman S. Olayan School of Business - Dean’s Office)
|
General Description
The online graduate professional diploma in entrepreneurship and innovation is a joint program between the Suliman S. Olayan School of Business (OSB) and the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA) at AUB aiming to:
- empower aspiring entrepreneurs to succeed in the regional ecosystem by innovating and scaling regionally.
- equip intrapreneurs with design thinking tools to successfully drive change within their organization.
- provide startup consultants with the tools and knowledge to become better advisers.
- introduce all learners with business ideas to potential financing sources.
Eligibility
The course is intended for:
- fresh graduates and professionals interested in developing an entrepreneurial mindset.
- aspiring Entrepreneurs seeking to bring their business idea to life.
- startup Consultants looking to enhance their knowledge of the ecosystem to become better advisers.
- intrapreneurs who want to innovate and drive change within their organization & are looking to develop their design thinking and leadership skills.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to any graduate program other than AUB graduates and graduates of recognized colleges or universities in North America, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. See Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE) under the Office of Admissions section.
Course Requirements
| Course | Credits |
| Design Research for Innovation and Change | 2
|
| Introduction to the Lean Startup | 2
|
| Foundations of Entrepreneurial Management | 2
|
| Regional Entrepreneurial Ecosystems | 2
|
| Strategic Communication for Entrepreneurs | 2
|
| Capstone Project | 2
|
Course Descriptions
Design Research for Innovation and Change 2 cr.
This course aims to support aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals exploring intraorganizational innovation practices. The course is designed to equip the students with human-centered design research methods and creative problem-solving tools. The objective of this course is to develop the participants’ ability to frame stakeholders’ needs and ultimately generate innovative and feasible solutions to address these needs.
Introduction to the Lean Startup 2 cr.
The course helps students to understand and experience the mindset of an entrepreneur by providing them with several cases and examples that are both international and regional in addition to exposure to real entrepreneurs through guest speaking and mentorship sessions. In addition to applying the startup methodology and the business planning process, the students will be exposed to the investment cycles of startups and learn briefly about angel investment, venture capital, and valuation. The case studies and examples will feature innovation driven SMEs.
Foundations of Entrepreneurial Management 2 cr.
The Entrepreneurial Management course, developed by OSB and MSFEA is designed to provide students with the management foundations and equip them with tools and frameworks needed by startups. The course takes a 360-degree approach by providing a holistic perspective of the different management functions and innovation principles that will be discussed at a high level. It is divided into six modules being: management and leadership; marketing; finance; human resources management; operations; and strategy. In the course students will learn how to build a financial model and then use this information to value the venture using discounted cash flow techniques. The course is designed as a series of workshops using a case study approach incorporating innovation. It will be coordinated by an instructor but each of the modules will be facilitated by a thematic expert.
Regional Entrepreneurial Ecosystems 2 cr.
In this course, students will better understand the metaphor of the ecosystem as it applies in the entrepreneurial context. They will be exposed to the main components of an ecosystem based on renowned theories and exemplary international cases. They will get to meet several ecosystem players in various countries in the Arab world and get to assess the maturity of each ecosystem and reflect on what could be enhanced.
Strategic Communication for Entrepreneurs 2 cr.
About nine in ten startup ideas fail. One of the reasons behind this failure is attributed to the inability of entrepreneurs to effectively communicate their idea to internal and external stakeholders. Communication is key at the different stages of a startup lifecycle. Whether an entrepreneur is seeking funds to support their business, secure the buy-in of their team to motivate and grow their idea, or negotiate with different stakeholders. This course aims to develop the communication skills of entrepreneurs. More specifically, participants will have the opportunity to understand the fundamentals of effective pitching and storytelling, develop effective data-driven visuals to maximize impact, and explore how to negotiate in different contexts. Participants are expected to explore communication strategies, techniques, and activities that can be applied to their projects and startup ideas.
Capstone Project 2 cr.
After having successfully completed the five proposed courses of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation program that give students a holistic understanding of consumer needs, target audience, and starting their own business, students are required to complete a capstone project. They are expected to integrate the entrepreneurship and innovation knowledge acquired in the core courses to develop their existing startup idea (if they have one) or an idea they develop through this course. At the end of the course, students are expected to pitch their startup idea to a jury consisting of faculty members and field experts.