In a landmark move for Jordan’s higher education, the University of Jordan (UJ) and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) unveiled their joint Ph.D. program in Computer Engineering.
The agreement, sealed during a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, was attended by senior officials from both institutions, including UJ President Prof. Nathir Obeidat, Vice President for Scientific Schools Prof. Ashraf Abu Karaky, and Dean of the School of Engineering Prof. Menwer Attarakih.
Obeidat opened the ceremony with words of pride and conviction, describing the initiative as “a powerful beginning for a broad academic and research collaboration that will open new horizons for our students and faculty.” He emphasised that the program, fully supported by Jordan’s Ministry of Higher Education and the Higher Education Council, reflects UJ’s determination to strengthen its global presence and to prepare its students for an increasingly interconnected academic world.
Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer of UNL Dr. Mark Button hailed the program as the culmination of years of close partnership, noting that it was built on faculty exchanges, joint research, and visiting scholars. “This is more than an academic agreement,” he said. “It is a shared commitment to shaping a better future for our students and our societies.”
Dean of the College of Engineering at UNL Dr. Lance Pérez underlined the program’s potential to advance collaboration in emerging areas of computing, while Assistant Vice Chancellor for Global Affairs Maegan Stevens-Liska highlighted its role in deepening internationalisation and academic mobility.
Designed to span eight to ten semesters, the program will see students begin their studies with three to four semesters at UJ before moving to UNL for five to six semesters. With a 90-credit structure combining advanced coursework and intensive research, the program ensures students are co-supervised by faculty from both institutions, guaranteeing academic rigour and an enriching doctoral experience.
Beyond coursework, students will enjoy full rights and privileges at their host university, including access to teaching and research assistantships at UNL, which come with tuition waivers and financial support. Admission requirements include strong academic performance at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, English proficiency, success in qualifying examinations, and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Concluding the event, both universities reaffirmed their shared vision of expanding research cooperation, academic mobility, and innovative learning opportunities.
This joint Ph.D. positions Jordan as a rising regional hub for excellence in science and technology, while strengthening the bridge of knowledge between both institutions.