University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh: Fostering Innovation and Learning
Daily Sun Report, Dhaka
Published: 12 Nov 2025
Photo: Collected
A liberal arts education is essential in Bangladesh as it fosters critical thinking, enhances creativity, and builds communication skills, equipping students for various career paths. It highlights comprehensive learning by integrating physical science, engineering, social science, arts, and humanities to develop versatile individuals capable of addressing real-world challenges. The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) is closing gaps through its exceptional broad-based curriculum. ULAB promotes interdisciplinary education, critical thinking, and ethical leadership. Emphasizing research, innovation, and community involvement prepares students with the expertise and abilities to succeed in an ever-evolving world and significantly contribute to society.
ULAB, a prominent private university in Dhaka, is renowned for its dedication to excellence in education and innovation. Established in 2004, ULAB focuses on a liberal arts education and provides diverse undergraduate anda graduate programmes. The university emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership to equip students for worldwide challenges. ULAB offers modern facilities, skilled faculty, and a dynamic campus environment. It is equally committed to research, sustainability, and community service, providing students with opportunities to contribute positively to society. ULAB serves as a center for both academic excellence and personal development.
ULAB offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programmes designed to cater to the diverse academic interests of its students. The institution offers a flexible and multidisciplinary educational approach that enables students to enroll in classes in subjects outside of their primary area of study. ULAB is the sole university that offers the opportunity to pursue a major and minor in two distinct fields.
The programmes offered by ULAB include:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
-Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies and Journalism (MSJ)
-Bachelor of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE)
- Bachelor of Science, Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE)
-Bachelor of Arts, Bangla Language and Literature (BLL)
-Bachelor in English (DEH)
-Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability (ESS)
-Master of Business Administration (MBA)
-Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
-Master of English
-Master in Communication (M.Comm)
ULAB is student-centered. It emphasizes giving students both academic knowledge and practical skills in these programs. Many programs include projects, internships, and experiential learning to allow students to apply their knowledge in practical settings.
The infrastructure, amenities, and layout of ULAB are aimed at assisting its students with cutting-edge technology in and out of the classroom. The Green Campus provides state-of-the-art facilities which include both academic and non-academic provisions for the students. Some of the notable aspects include:
ULAB’s modern classrooms and laboratories create a superior learning atmosphere. Outfitted with the latest technology, smart boards, and audio-visual resources, they improve interactive education. State-of-the-art computer labs, media studios, and science facilities facilitate practical training and research endeavors. These resources guarantee that students acquire hands-on skills, equipping them for real-life challenges. Among them some remarkable are:
-Analog and Digital System Lab
-Telecommunications Lab
-Media Lab
-Radio Lab
-IoT Lab
-NLP and Machine Learning Research Lab
-ACM Competitive Programming Lab
-Electrical and Electronic Engineering Labs
ULAB’s library and research facilities are designed to promote academic excellence and foster innovation. The library boasts an extensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources, enabling both students and faculty to access a wealth of global knowledge. It includes quiet study zones, research tools, and online databases to facilitate learning and research. ULAB also supports scholarly activities through its research centers, projects, and publications, promoting critical thinking and creativity. These facilities empower students to explore, study, and make meaningful contributions to academic and societal progress.
ULAB offers a vibrant campus life, enriched by its dynamic cafeteria, sports facilities, and open spaces. The cafeteria serves as a lively hub where students relax, socialize, and enjoy delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. ULAB’s indoor and outdoor games facilities, including table tennis, basketball, and football, provide students with opportunities to engage in physical activities, fostering teamwork and a healthy lifestyle. The large open field is a centerpiece of campus life, hosting sports events, cultural programs, and casual gatherings. These facilities create a perfect balance between academics and recreation, ensuring a holistic university experience for all students.
ULAB features a vibrant campus experience with more than 22 active clubs, giving students various chances to pursue their interests and develop their skills. Among the prominent clubs is Cinemascope, which supports those with a passion for filmmaking, while ULAB TV offers practical experience for aspiring broadcasters. The ULABian Newspaper serves as a platform for novice journalists. Photography lovers excel in Shutterbug, where they capture memorable moments through photography. PR4U enhances public relations skills, equipping students for future professional achievements. These clubs and internships empower students to thrive in creativity, teamwork, and leadership, fostering a comprehensive learning environment that extends beyond academic studies.
In addition to that, ULAB offers a dynamic selection of extracurricular activities that support students’ personal and professional development. Students at ULAB have the opportunity to engage in the esteemed Duke of Edinburgh Award program, which promotes self-improvement and community involvement. The ULAB Model United Nations (MUN) develops leadership and diplomacy abilities through simulations of international decision-making processes. The Hult Prize Competition allows students to present innovative social entrepreneurship concepts on a worldwide level. Furthermore, the Fair Play Cup encourages collaboration and sportsmanship through competitive athletic events. These activities enable students to thrive beyond their academic pursuits and cultivate diverse skill sets.
ULAB’s Career Counseling and Placement Services assist students in establishing successful career paths. The university provides tailored counseling, career development workshops, and skill enhancement sessions to support students in discovering various career options and getting ready for the job market. Frequent job fairs, networking opportunities, and internship prospects link students with top companies and organizations. ULAB’s strong connections with the industry and committed guidance ensure that students acquire practical experience and build professional networks, enabling them to obtain meaningful employment and thrive in their selected fields after graduation.
ULAB’s outreach programs, such as the Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF), exemplify its commitment to community engagement and creativity. DIMFF promotes mobile filmmaking, empowering storytellers to showcase their talent globally.
ULAB serves as a center of innovation and knowledge, bolstered by its various research facilities. The Center for Sustainable Development addresses environmental sustainability and related concerns, while the Center for Enterprise and Society focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and social impact. The Center for Bangla Studies and the Center for Archaeological Studies work to safeguard cultural and historical heritage. The Dhaka Translation Center enhances both literary and academic translation efforts, and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning improves teaching practices. The Center for Critical and Qualitative Studies encourages interdisciplinary research, and the Office of Faculty Research aids scholarly pursuits. Together, these centers promote both academic and societal advancement.
ULAB’s international exposure and exchange initiatives have reached significant milestones, enhancing global learning opportunities. Throughout the years, ULAB students have engaged in exchange programs with prestigious universities such as the University of Portsmouth in the UK, along with over 45 other institutions in the USA, Japan, and India. ULAB has also organized international conferences, study tours, and cultural exchange activities, fostering worldwide academic collaboration. These accomplishments showcase ULAB’s dedication to offering students chances to experience diverse cultures, expand their perspectives, and establish networks for future success.
ULAB presents a variety of scholarships, waivers, and financial assistance options to aid talented and deserving students. Up to 100% of Scholarships and waivers based on merit recognize academic accomplishments, while financial aid based on need facilitates educational access for students from various backgrounds. ULAB grants tuition waivers for exceptional performance in academics, sports, and extracurricular pursuits. Additional financial assistance is also provided for students from underprivileged backgrounds and those with disabilities. Through these offerings, ULAB makes certain that financial barriers do not prevent students from realizing their educational and professional aspirations.
The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) has achieved significant milestones, demonstrating its commitment to quality education and research. ULAB has gained international recognition through esteemed rankings such as the WURI Ranking for Innovative Education, the QS Asia Rankings, and the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, emphasizing its focus on quality and sustainability. Within the country, ULAB holds the 2nd position in research expenditure among private universities, according to the University Grants Commission (UGC), which illustrates its commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation. These honors highlight ULAB’s role in promoting academic excellence, contributing to research, and having a global influence, thus reinforcing its status as a leading institution in Bangladesh.
In summary, ULAB emerges as the top option for higher education due to its dedication to academic quality, innovation, and comprehensive development. Embracing a liberal arts philosophy, it offers state-of-the-art facilities, skilled faculty, and a variety of programs, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills. Its emphasis on research, international exposure, and career growth equips students to tackle future challenges effectively. ULAB’s scholarships and financial support make education accessible for everyone, empowering students to reach their aspirations and make meaningful contributions to society.