The University of Jordan (UJ) and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) have officially launched their first joint Ph.D. program in Computer Engineering, marking a significant step in UJ’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its global academic presence and provide its students with internationally competitive educational opportunities.
The launch agreement was signed during a virtual ceremony held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, attended by senior officials from both institutions. Representing UJ were President Prof. Nathir Obeidat, Vice President for Scientific Schools Prof. Ashraf Abu Karaky, and Dean of the School of Engineering Prof. Menwer Attarakih, alongside academic leaders from UNL.
In his remarks, Obeidat expressed pride in the partnership, describing the program as “a strong starting point for broader academic and research collaboration that will open new horizons for both students and faculty members.” He emphasized that the initiative is fully supported by Jordan’s Ministry of Higher Education and the Higher Education Council, reflecting national confidence in UJ’s academic standing.
UNL Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Mark Button described the program as the culmination of years of sustained cooperation between the two universities, built on faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and visiting scholar initiatives. He noted that the agreement represents a shared commitment to advancing education and research for the benefit of both societies.
For his part, Dean of the College of Engineering at UNL Dr. Lance Pérez highlighted the program’s potential to foster collaboration in emerging computing fields, while Assistant Vice Chancellor for Global Affairs Maegan Stevens-Liska underscored its importance in promoting internationalization and academic mobility.
The joint Ph.D. program spans eight to ten semesters, with students completing three to four semesters at UJ before continuing five to six semesters at UNL. Structured around 90 credit hours, the program integrates advanced coursework with intensive research and features joint supervision by faculty members from both institutions, ensuring academic rigor and a comprehensive doctoral experience.
Enrolled students will enjoy full academic privileges at their host institution, including eligibility for teaching and research assistantships at UNL, which provide tuition waivers and financial support. Admission requirements include strong academic performance at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, English language proficiency, successful completion of qualifying examinations, and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
This joint Ph.D. program reinforces Jordan’s position as an emerging regional hub for excellence in science and technology, while further strengthening academic and research ties between the University of Jordan and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.