Hariri Canadian University

Hariri Canadian University is the former name of Rafik Hariri University which is a privately run non-profit educational institution located in Mechref near Damour, Mount Lebanon. Licensed officially by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education of Lebanon, the university offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as business administration, engineering, and arts and sciences. Founded on a credit hour system inspired by North America, the university puts emphasis on practicality, technology and skill building for the preparation of competitive global careers.

The institution was founded in 1999 by the Rafik Hariri Foundation led by the former Lebanese Prime Minister, Rafik Hariri, setting up the foundation for its curriculum together with the educational bodies of Canada such as the Canadian Bureau for International Education and Memorial University. The institution, formerly named as Hariri Canadian University College and then Hariri Canadian University, attained full university status with the presidential decree in June 2006. The institution decided to rename itself in memory of its founder with his name attached in recognition of his philanthropic educational legacy.

Hariri Canadian University can be considered as a basic stage in the history of Rafik Hariri University, considering its constant endeavor towards providing quality and accessible higher education in Lebanon. The university has been able to maintain a student-oriented approach in its curriculum, which is accredited according to international standards. This helps promote intellectual development, leadership skills, and responsible citizenship among students.