Our History
The University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS) is considered one of the largest technical colleges in Palestine, serving approximately 6,000 male and female students across more than 60 specializations in bachelor’s degrees, associate diplomas, and vocational diplomas. These programs are designed to meet the urgent needs and demands of the labor market.
UCAS was established by a decision of the Ministry of Higher Education in 1998 under the name “College of Professional and Applied Sciences.”
At that time, it was the only academic institution in the Gaza Strip offering applied education. Recognizing the importance of this field, the college took the initiative to launch new specializations. Over time, the institution evolved, and in 2007, it transitioned from a college offering only associate diplomas to a university college that began offering bachelor’s degrees in around nine different fields.
To support this development, UCAS recruited a distinguished academic team of 660 faculty members, including 270 holding PhDs and master’s degrees, in order to meet the administrative, financial, and technical demands of the college environment. Additionally, a qualified administrative staff of 243 employees was formed across various units and departments, all committed to providing the best services to students, their families, and the teaching staff.
Over the course of fourteen years since its establishment, UCAS has continuously supplied the local job market with elite graduates who have gone on to occupy significant positions in both governmental and non-governmental institutions, locally and regionally. Many of its graduates have also pursued further academic studies, obtaining bachelor’s and master’s degrees. To date, more than 24,000 male and female students have graduated from the college.
In 2009, UCAS introduced a set of development programs as part of its strategic plan to improve educational outcomes and ensure alignment with the needs of both local and regional communities. The college established a Community Service Center that included several important facilities for training and qualification programs, such as the Center for Continuing Education, Speech and Language Disorders Clinic, Medad Company, and an Animation Unit.
As part of its ongoing development efforts, and to improve logistical conditions for students in the southern region, UCAS inaugurated its Khan Younis branch in 2009. The college continues to develop its diploma and bachelor’s programs, enhancing its offerings in line with international standards and requirements that meet the needs of the local and regional communities.