Canadian University Dubai — Women's Likelihood of Graduating
Our Commitment
Canadian University Dubai is committed to ensuring gender parity in student outcomes. The University actively tracks women's likelihood of graduating and has implemented targeted support schemes to eliminate barriers and ensure female students successfully complete their degrees. Our data confirms that women graduate at rates equal to or higher than their male peers, with no significant gender disadvantage in completion.
Tracking Graduation Rates by Gender
CUD systematically tracks graduation rates by gender as part of its institutional research and sustainability commitments.
| Metric | Women | Men | Total | % Women |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Completers (2023) | 1,155 | 1,045 | 2,200 | 52.5% |
| Graduating Class (2023) | 230 | 195 | 425 | 54% |
The data indicates near-parity in graduation, with women slightly outnumbering men among recent graduates.
Support Schemes to Improve Women's Likelihood of Graduating
To maintain this high completion rate and close any potential disparities, CUD provides dedicated support schemes designed to empower female students academically and professionally.
| Support Scheme | Description | Impact on Graduation Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Mentoring by Female Role Models | Female faculty and entrepreneurial alumnae are engaged as mentors to guide current students. (e.g., Dr. Khulood Khansaheb, Incubator Manager). | Provides women with guidance from those who have navigated higher education and careers, building confidence and leadership skills. |
| Individualized Mentoring & Counseling | One-on-one mentoring sessions with experienced professionals via the Student Success Centre and Career Services. | Provides personalized guidance on academic challenges, career development, and transitioning to the workforce. Helps with on-time graduation. |
| Entrepreneurship & Career Workshops | CUD hosts women's empowerment workshops, entrepreneurship events, and career guidance sessions featuring successful women speakers (CEOs, industry leaders). | Develops skills, networks, and aspirations in fields where women are under-represented, increasing engagement and persistence. |
| Encouraging Female Entrepreneurship | The CUD Incubator intentionally includes women, connecting them with female entrepreneurs and providing a safe environment to launch startups. | Boosts women's confidence and skillsets, reinforcing their commitment to complete their degrees. |
Outcomes of Support Schemes
The effectiveness of these support schemes is visible in student achievements:
- STEM Excellence: A CUD all-female mechatronics team won consecutive victories in the IEEE robotics competition, highlighting the impact of mentorship and encouragement in STEM fields.
- Global Mentorship: Several CUD students have been selected for the competitive Women@Dior mentorship program, preparing them to excel in their careers post-graduation.
How Students Access These Schemes
Female students can access support through:
- Student Success Centre: For academic advising and individualized mentoring.
- Career Services: For career workshops, CV writing, and interview skills.
- CUD Incubator: For entrepreneurial mentorship and startup support.
- Faculty Mentors: Through direct engagement with female faculty role models.
Alignment with National and Global Goals
These initiatives align with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), particularly UN Target 5.1 (end all forms of discrimination against women) and Target 5.5 (ensure women’s full and effective participation). By actively tracking and improving women's likelihood of graduating, CUD contributes to a highly educated and empowered female workforce in the UAE.
For more information, contact the Office of Research and Institutional Advancement at raia@cud.ac.ae.