Public Universities in Pakistan

Public Universities in Pakistan

In Pakistan, a major source of higher education is government-funded universities. The reason is that they provide affordable education. Over 80% of students are enrolled in these universities' various academic programs in Pakistan yearly.

In this article, we've listed the top ones among them and why they stand out. Keep reading to learn everything about public universities in Pakistan.

Overview of Public Universities in Pakistan

The journey of Public universities in Pakistan started with a mission to provide quality education to everyone. From the first public university, the University of the Punjab (1882), to the new ones, they've become the backbone of the nation's education sector.

The government has implemented various policies and initiatives to support the growth of these universities. These universities are hubs of innovation and research, contributing in countless ways to the country's development. Whether it's groundbreaking research or producing future leaders, public universities in Pakistan are at the forefront of it all.

Criteria for Ranking

While ranking universities, we look at several important factors to ensure we're highlighting the best. Here's how we break it down:

Academic Excellence: We checked out how good the teachers are, how many students there are per teacher, and how much the university focuses on research.

Infrastructure: We took a look at the campus itself— about libraries, labs, and student accommodations. Great facilities can make a big difference in a student's experience.

Student Support Services: We considered what kind of help is available to students, like scholarships, financial aid, and career counselling.

Reputation and Accreditation: We checked the university's rankings and any national or international recognitions. A university with a strong reputation and proper accreditation is often more respected in the job market.

Top 10 Public Universities in Pakistan

Here's a detailed look at our top 10 Public Universities in Pakistan list:

1. Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad

Located in the heart of the capital, Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) is a beacon of higher education in Pakistan. What makes QAU stand out is its commitment to academic excellence and research. Recognized nationally and internationally, QAU consistently ranks among the best Pakistani universities. The degree you earn from here is highly valued, opening doors to opportunities at home and abroad.

Key Departments:

• Biological Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Business Administration
• Law

Notable Features:

• Highly qualified faculty
• A strong research background
• Collaboration with international institutions
• Extensive library and research facilities

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 2,00,000-3,57,580 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1967

Total Programs: 50+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 31,150

Total Faculty: 1,340

Location: Islamabad

2. University of the Punjab, Lahore

Punjab University in Pakistan is one of the oldest and most prestigious ones. Its long history is a testament to its quality and resilience. The university is famous for its vast academic offerings, covering everything from arts to sciences. Students flock here for its affordable education, rich library resources, and expansive campus.

Key Departments:

• Business, Economics and Administrative Sciences
• Electrical, Energy & Environmental Engineering
• Computing & Information Technology
• Information and Media Studies
• Life-Sciences
• Geo-Sciences
• Arts and Humanities
• Islamic Studies
• Law
• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Agricultural Sciences

Notable Features:

• Large and well-equipped campus
• Strong research and innovation
• A wide range of academic programs
• Active clubs and societies for students

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 56,440-1,94,600 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1882

Total Programs: 70+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: Over 45,000

Total Faculty: Approximately 1,000

Location: Lahore, Punjab

3. COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT), Islamabad

CIIT is one of the best institutes in Pakistan, especially in the fields of IT and engineering. Known for its modern approach and cutting-edge research, CIIT attracts students who are passionate about these fields. Plus, its strong industry connections also make its degrees highly valued. The university's rise in rankings and rapidly expanding alumni network are proof of its growing influence.

Key Departments:

• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Mathematics
• Management Sciences
• Physics

Notable Features:

• IT and engineering expertise
• Collaboration with international universities
• Active participation in national and international conferences

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 99,000-168,000 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1998

Total Programs: 40+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 33,744

Total Faculty: 2,444

Location: Islamabad, Capital Territory

4. National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST)

Ranked among the top research universities in Pakistan, NUST offers a dynamic learning environment. The university's campus is one of the most modern in the country. That's equipped with cutting-edge labs, research centres, and recreational facilities. NUST's degrees, particularly in engineering and technology, are highly sought after by employers.

Key Departments:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Business Administration
• Civil Engineering

Notable Features:

• Huge research facilities
• Strong industry-academia linkages
• Highly qualified faculty
• Advanced campus infrastructure

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 13,70,800 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1991

Total Programs: 60+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 12,468

Total Faculty: 1,637

Location: Islamabad, Capital Territory

5. Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad

When it comes to engineering and applied sciences, PIEAS is a name that commands respect. This university is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong research culture. The campus, though not large, is well-equipped with the latest technology and research facilities. A degree from PIEAS is highly regarded, especially in the field of engineering.

Key Departments:

• Nuclear Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Science

Notable Features:

• Research in nuclear and applied sciences
• Collaboration with national and international research organizations
• State-of-the-art laboratories
• Highly selective admission process

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 482000 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1967

Total Programs: 28 undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 1,518

Total Faculty: 167

Location: Islamabad, Capital Territory

6. University of Engineering and Technology (UET)

UET is a dream destination for aspiring engineers in Pakistan. It's another of the best universities located in Lahore and has a history that spans over a century. UET's sprawling campus, with its historic buildings and modern amenities, provides a perfect blend. Graduates from here are highly sought after in the job market.

Key Departments:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Architecture

Notable Features:

• Extensive engineering programs
• International research collaboration
• Well-equipped laboratories and workshops

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 4,04,350-5,17,404 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2-2.5 years

Established: 1921

Total Programs: 35+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 12,503

Total Faculty: 1,014

Location: Lahore, Punjab

7. University of Peshawar (UoP), Peshawar

Founded in 1950, UoP is not just one of the oldest universities but also one of the most respected. It's a hub for cultural and academic activities, attracting students from all over the country. Peshawar, the largest city in the province, is beautiful and friendly. Plus, the university campus is rich in history. The degrees from UoP carry significant weight.

Key Departments:

• Arts and Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Business Administration
• Law

Notable Features:

• Strong research centers
• A rich history and academic legacy
• Extensive library

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 318400-675200 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1950

Total Programs: 48+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 14,359+

Total Faculty: 606+

Location: Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

8. Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi

For those aiming for a career in business, IBA Karachi is the place to be. Established in 1955, IBA has a long-standing reputation as one of the best business schools in Pakistan. The campus is modern and well-equipped. Degrees from IBA are highly valued in the business world. Also, its alumni network includes some of the most influential business leaders in Pakistan.

Key Departments:

• Business Administration
• Economics and Finance
• Social Sciences and Liberal Arts
• Computer Science
• Mathematics

Notable Features:

• Strong industry connections
• Huge internship opportunities
• Emphasis on entrepreneurship and leadership development
• Active alumni network

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee:

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1955

Total Programs: 20+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 4900+

Total Faculty: 250+

Location: Karachi, Sindh

9. Government College University, Faisalabad (GCUF)

GCUF is another leading public university in Pakistan. It's known for its wide array of academic programs, from social sciences to natural sciences. The university campus is equipped with modern facilities, including advanced labs and libraries. Degrees from here are respected across the country, and its graduates are known for their academic rigour.

Key Departments:

• Arts and Social Sciences
• Science and Technology
• Management and Administrative Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Pharmacy

Notable Features:

• Strong focus on research and innovation
• Extensive community outreach
• Wide range of extracurricular activities

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 3,85,700-4,00,000 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1897 (as a college), 2002 (as a university)

Total Programs: 60+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 2,219

Total Faculty: 1,846

Location: Faisalabad, Punjab

10. University of Karachi, Karachi

The University of Karachi is a cornerstone of higher education in Pakistan. With more than 52 departments, it has strong academic programs. Established in 1951, this university has built a reputation for excellence in teaching and 19 research institutes. The university is well-regarded for producing highly skilled graduates.

Key Departments:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Economics
• Law
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences

Notable Features:

• Extensive library
• Modern research facilities and laboratories
• Active student clubs and organizations
• Strong industry connections
• Internship opportunities

Overall Details:

Tuition Fee: 176000-377498 PKR

Undergraduate Duration: 4 years

Postgraduate Duration: 2 years (Master's), 3-5 years (Ph.D.)

Established: 1951

Total Programs: 60+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Total Students: 44,969

Total Faculty: 1,063

Location: Karachi, Sindh

All Public Universities in Pakistan

Currently, there are 148 active public universities in Pakistan. Here is a comprehensive list of all public universities:

S.No	University / Institution	Location	Established Year
1	University of Agriculture Faisalabad	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1961
2	Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	1960
3	Government College University Faisalabad	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1897
4	National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST)	Islamabad, Pakistan	1991
5	COMSATS University Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	1998
6	Bahauddin Zakariya University	Multan, Pakistan	1975
7	Islamia University Bahawalpur	Bahawalpur, Pakistan	1925
8	University of the Punjab	Lahore, Pakistan	1882
9	Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan	Mardan, Pakistan	2009
10	International Islamic University Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	1956
11	University of Arid Agriculture Rawalpindi	Rawalpindi, Pakistan	2013
12	University of Agriculture Peshawar	Peshawar, Pakistan	1981
13	University of Sargodha	Sargodha, Pakistan	2002
14	University of Peshawar	Peshawar, Pakistan	1950
15	University of Sindh	Jamshoro, Pakistan	1947
16	University of Gujrat	Gujrat, Pakistan	2003
17	University of Karachi	Karachi, Pakistan	1950
18	University of Engineering & Technology Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1962
19	Government College University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1864
20	Kohat University of Science & Technology	Kohat, Pakistan	2001
21	Hazara University	Mansehra, Pakistan	2002
22	University of Education, Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2002
23	Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology	Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan	2014
24	University of Malakand	Chakdara, Pakistan	2001
25	Gomal University Dera Ismail Khan	Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan	1974
26	Information Technology University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2012
27	University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1881
28	Mehran University of Engineering & Technology	Jamshoro, Pakistan	1973
29	University of Swabi	Swabi, Pakistan	2012
30	Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture	Multan, Pakistan	1978
31	National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS)	Rawalpindi, Pakistan	1927
32	University of Engineering & Technology Taxila	Taxila, Pakistan	1975
33	National Textile University Faisalabad	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1959
34	Air University Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	1969
35	University of Okara	Okara, Pakistan	2016
36	Federal Urdu University of Arts Sciences and Technology (FUUAST) Karachi	Karachi, Pakistan	2002
37	Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University	Shaheed Benazirabad, Pakistan	2009
38	University of Haripur	Haripur, Pakistan	2012
39	Islamia College Peshawar	Peshawar, Pakistan	1913
40	University of Engineering & Technology Peshawar	Peshawar, Pakistan	1952
41	University of Swat	Swat, Pakistan	2010
42	Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi	Karachi, Pakistan	2003
43	Ghazi University	Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan	2012
44	Khyber Medical University	Peshawar, Pakistan	2007
45	University of Sahiwal	Sahiwal, Pakistan	2005
46	National University of Technology (NUTECH)	Islamabad, Pakistan	2018
47	University of Poonch Rawalakot	Rawalakot, Azad Jammu & Kashmir	2013
48	University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir	Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir	1980
49	Dawood University of Engineering & Technology	Karachi, Pakistan	1962
50	Sindh Madressatul Islam University	Karachi, Pakistan	2012
51	Virtual University of Pakistan	Lahore, Pakistan	2002
52	University of Health Sciences Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1984
53	University of Lakki Marwat	Lakki Marwat, Pakistan	2017
54	Federal Urdu University of Arts Sciences and Technology FUUAST Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	2002
55	University of Mianwali	Mianwali, Pakistan	2019
56	Karakoram International University	Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan	2002
57	University of Balochistan	Quetta, Pakistan	1970
58	Health Services Academy	Islamabad, Pakistan	1948
59	Fatima Jinnah Women University	Rawalpindi, Pakistan	1998
60	Kinnaird College for Women	Lahore, Pakistan	1913
61	Jinnah Sindh Medical University	Karachi, Pakistan	2012
62	Rawalpindi Medical University	Rawalpindi, Pakistan	2017
63	Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Engineering and Technology	Multan, Pakistan	2012
64	Fatima Jinnah Medical University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1948
65	Mirpur University of Science & Technology	Mirpur, Azad Jammu & Kashmir	2008
66	Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences	Quetta, Pakistan	2002
67	University of Science & Technology Bannu	Bannu, Pakistan	2005
68	Lahore College for Women University	Lahore, Pakistan	1922
69	Allama Iqbal Open University	Islamabad, Pakistan	1974
70	Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Bahawalpur	Bahawalpur, Pakistan	1961
71	NED University of Engineering & Technology	Karachi, Pakistan	1921
72	Sindh Agriculture University	Tandojam, Pakistan	1977
73	Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari	Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan	2010
74	National University of Modern Languages Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	1970
75	Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar	Peshawar, Pakistan	2002
76	Government College Women University, Sialkot	Sialkot, Pakistan	2013
77	Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences	Lasbela, Pakistan	2005
78	University of Jhang	Jhang, Pakistan	2015
79	University of Engineering & Technology UET Mardan	Mardan, Pakistan	1967
80	National Skills University	Islamabad, Pakistan	2021
81	FATA University	FATA, Pakistan	2013
82	Government College Women University Faisalabad	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1983
83	Government College for Women University Sialkot	Sialkot, Pakistan	1982
84	GC University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2003
85	Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences	Jamshoro, Pakistan	1881
86	Abbottabad University of Science and Technology	Abbottabad, Pakistan	2015
87	Bacha Khan University	Charsadda, Pakistan	2012
88	University of Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir	Kotli, Azad Jammu & Kashmir	2014
89	University of Baltistan Skardu	Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan	2017
90	King Edward Medical University	Lahore, Pakistan	1860
91	Government Sadiq College Women University Bahawalpur	Bahawalpur, Pakistan	2013
92	Women University Swabi	Swabi, Pakistan	2015
93	University of the Punjab Gujranwala Campus	Gujranwala, Pakistan	1882
94	University of Turbat	Turbat, Pakistan	2012
95	Kohsar University Murree	Murree, Pakistan	2020
96	Punjab Medical College	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1973
97	National Defence University, Pakistan	Islamabad, Pakistan	1970
98	Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Medical & Dental College Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2009
99	Institute of Industrial Electronics Engineering	Karachi, Pakistan	1989
100	National College of Arts Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1875
101	Government Postgraduate Jahanzeb College	Swat, Pakistan	1952
102	Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering Science & Technology	Nawabshah, Pakistan	1974
103	Shah Abdul Latif University	Khairpur, Pakistan	1987
104	Women University Multan	Multan, Pakistan	2010
105	Khushal Khan Khattak University	Karak, Pakistan	2012
106	University of Buner	Buner, Pakistan	2012
107	Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University	Peshawar, Pakistan	2004
108	University of Narowal	Narowal, Pakistan	2014
109	Allama Iqbal Medical College	Lahore, Pakistan	1975
110	Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University Islamabad	Islamabad, Pakistan	2013
111	Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology	Khuzdar, Pakistan	1994
112	Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir	Bagh, Azad Jammu & Kashmir	2014
113	Ayub Medical College	Abbottabad, Pakistan	1979
114	Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur	Sukkur, Pakistan	2018
115	Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University	Quetta, Pakistan	2004
116	Bolan Medical College Quetta	Quetta, Pakistan	2017
117	University of Chitral	Chitral, Pakistan	2019
118	Karachi Medical and Dental College	Karachi, Pakistan	1991
119	Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences	Sakrand, Pakistan	2012
120	Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University	Larkana, Pakistan	2008
121	Women University Mardan	Mardan, Pakistan	2016
122	University of Technology Nowshera	Nowshera, Pakistan	2016
123	Peoples University of Medical & Health Sciences for Women Shaheed Benazirabad	Shaheed Benazirabad, Pakistan	1974
124	Greenwich University	Karachi, Pakistan	1987
125	Dadabhoy Institute of Higher Education Karachi	Karachi, Pakistan	2003
126	Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College	Lahore, Pakistan	2008
127	Abdus Salam School of Mathematical Sciences GC University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2003
128	Faisalabad Medical University	Faisalabad, Pakistan	1973
129	College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan	Karachi, Pakistan	2004
130	Karachi Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship	Karachi, Pakistan	2012
131	Rawalpindi Women University	Rawalpindi, Pakistan	2019
132	University of Sufism and Modern Science, Bhitshah	Bhitshah, Pakistan	2011
133	Higher Education Commission of Pakistan	Islamabad, Pakistan	2002
134	University of Loralai	Loralai, Pakistan	2013
135	Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University of Technology & Skill Development Khairpur Mirs	Khairpur Mirs, Pakistan	2012
136	Green International University Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	2014
137	Government College of Science Wahdat Road Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1973
138	Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto University of Law	Karachi, Pakistan	2013
139	Shaikh Ayaz University Shikarpur Sindh	Shikarpur, Pakistan	2018
140	University of Home Economics Lahore	Lahore, Pakistan	1955
141	Jinnah Medical & Dental College	Karachi, Pakistan	1998
142	Sheikh Zayed Medical College	Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan	2003
143	Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences	Gambat, Pakistan	2006
144	Balochistan Agriculture College Quetta	Quetta, Pakistan	1986
145	Saidu Medical College Swat	Swat, Pakistan	1998
146	Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture	Karachi, Pakistan	1989
147	Gandhara University	Peshawar, Pakistan	2002
148	Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design	Lahore, Pakistan	2006

Factors to Consider When Choosing a University

Choosing the right higher education institution can impact your future a lot. So, before you decide which one to select, remember to consider these:

Academic Fit: Make sure the university offers programs/degrees that you want to pursue.

Financial Considerations: Evaluate the tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid options available.

Campus Life: Consider the importance of extracurricular activities, student clubs, and support services in your university experience.

Location and Accessibility: Think about the university's location, transportation options, and how easy it is to commute.

Conclusion

In conclusion, public universities in Pakistan are vital to providing accessible education. The top institutions mentioned here are known for their high academic quality. Choosing the right university influences your future career. So consider all the factors mentioned to make your decision.

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