Shiraz University

Overview of Shiraz University

Shiraz University, formerly known as Pahlavi University, is one of Iran’s leading public institutions. With one of the largest educational campuses in the country, the university offers a wide range of academic and research programs, playing a significant role in scientific and research advancements. Currently, Shiraz University hosts over 19,000 students across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. It offers more than 200 undergraduate programs, 300 master’s programs, and 150 doctoral programs. Additionally, as a research-oriented institution with approximately 700 faculty members, Shiraz University is dedicated to training specialized professionals and faculty members for other higher education institutions in Iran.

History of Shiraz University

The roots of Shiraz University trace back to 1946 when it was initially established as the Higher Institute of Health. In 1950, it was transformed into a medical school, and by 1954, with the establishment of engineering and veterinary faculties, it evolved into a full-fledged university under the name Pahlavi University.

During the 1960s, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi invited Gaylord P. Harnwell, the president of the University of Pennsylvania, to visit Iran and assess the country’s higher education system. Based on his recommendations, Pahlavi University adopted an educational model inspired by the American system. The University of Pennsylvania played a key role in shaping the academic structures and faculty development of Pahlavi University. Many professors from the University of Pennsylvania also traveled to Shiraz, facilitating extensive academic exchange programs between the two institutions. Notably, Shiraz University was the first higher education institution in Iran to have a Board of Trustees and operate independently in academic and administrative matters.

Shiraz University Rankings

• QS World University Ranking 2025: Rank 691-700
• QS WUR by Subject: Rank 51-100
• QS Sustainability Ranking: Rank 857
• Asian Universities – South Asia Ranking: Rank 40

Academic Programs at Shiraz University

Shiraz University offers a wide range of academic programs at the master’s and doctoral levels. Below are some of the fields of study available:

Educational Sciences and Psychology

• Clinical Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Educational Management
• Curriculum Planning
• Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children

Physical Education

• Motor Behavior – Motor Learning and Control
• Motor Behavior – Motor Development
• Exercise Physiology – Sports Nutrition
• Exercise Physiology – Clinical Exercise Physiology

History and Philosophy of Education

• Islamic Education
• Primary Education

Information Science and Knowledge Studies

• Scientometrics
• Information Management

Economics, Management, and Social Sciences

• Business Administration (MBA)

For a complete list of programs and detailed information, you can visit the International Campus of Shiraz University website.

Faculties at Shiraz University

Faculty of Literature and Humanities

Departments:

• History (Among the top four history departments in Iran, a center for world history studies in the country)
• Arabic Language and Literature
• Persian Language and Literature
• Foreign Languages and Linguistics

Faculty of Economics, Management, and Social Sciences

Departments:

• Economics
• Management
• Accounting
• Sociology
• Geography
• Tourism and Hospitality Management

Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies

Departments:

• Islamic Studies
• Islamic Philosophy and Theology
• Quranic Studies and Islamic Jurisprudence

Faculty of Law and Political Science

Departments:

• Law
• International Law
• Criminal Law and Criminology
• Private and Islamic Law
• Public Law
• Political Science

Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology

Departments:

• Physical Education and Sports Science
• Clinical Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children
• Information Science and Knowledge Studies
• Foundations of Education / Primary and Preschool Education
• Educational Management and Curriculum Planning

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

Departments:

• Food Hygiene and Quality Control
• Pathobiology
• Veterinary Medicine
• Basic Sciences
• Clinical Sciences
• Animal Health Management

Faculty of New Technologies

Departments:

• Nano Chemical Engineering

School of Sciences

Departments:

• Statistics
• Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Earth Sciences
• Physics

Faculty of Agriculture

Departments:

• Agricultural Economics
• Biotechnology
• Agricultural Extension and Education
• Agronomy and Plant Breeding
• Horticultural Sciences
• Soil Science
• Animal Sciences
• Food Science and Technology
• Plant Protection
• Water Engineering
• Biosystems Engineering
• Natural Resources and Environmental Engineering

Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Darab Campus)

Departments:

• Agroecology
• Irrigation Technology
• Rangeland and Watershed Management
• Plant Production
• Agriculture

Faculty of Engineering

Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering

• Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology
• Telecommunications and Electronics Engineering
• Power and Control Engineering

Faculty of Chemical, Petroleum, and Gas Engineering

• Chemical Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Gas Engineering

Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

• Solid Mechanics Engineering
• Heat and Fluid Mechanics Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering

Faculty of Civil and Materials Engineering

• Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering
• Materials Engineering

Faculty of Art and Architecture

Departments:

• Architecture
• Urban Planning
• Fine Arts

International Campus

• E-Learning Programs

Shiraz University provides a broad range of programs across various disciplines, making it a leading institution in Iran for higher education and research.

Tuition Fees at Shiraz University

Tuition fees at Shiraz University are categorized into two groups:

1. Group 1: International students without a scholarship.
2. Group 2: Students who have received a Shiraz University scholarship.

These costs include Persian language learning (AZFA), tuition fees, accommodation, and meals, detailed in the tables below.

Persian Language Learning Fee (AZFA)

In the first semester, all international students at Shiraz University must enroll in the Persian language course (AZFA).

Tuition Fees per Semester

Accommodation and Meal Costs per Semester

These costs provide international students with a clear understanding of the financial requirements for studying at Shiraz University.

Admission Requirements at Shiraz University

General Admission Process:

• Completion of the online application form.
• Submission of required documents (listed below).
• Notification of arrival date and time in Shiraz.
• Coordination for airport transfer and accommodation reservation.

Required Documents for Admission at Shiraz University

1. Scanned Copy of Passport Bio Page:

• The passport must be valid for at least six months and have two blank pages.
• Recent Passport-Size Photo:
• Dimensions: 3×4 cm
• Maximum file size: 50 KB
• Latest Academic Certificate and Transcripts:
  • File size should be less than 100 KB.
  • If required, documents must be verified by the Iranian embassy.
• Updated Resume (CV):
  • Maximum file size: 100 KB.

Steps After Document Submission

• Complete the online application form.
• Inform the university of arrival date and request airport services (if needed).
• Visit the university campus to:
  • Meet with faculty members and administrators.
  • Complete registration procedures.
  • Attend the orientation workshop on Shiraz University.

Requirements for International Applicants

• Valid passport.
• Approval from the Iranian Student Affairs Organization.
• Official acceptance letter from the Vice President for Education and the relevant academic department.
• Special academic requirements:
  • Submission of official academic documents translated into Persian and English.
  • Certification of documents by the Iranian embassy or consulate.
  • Completion of the Persian language course at the university’s language center.

These steps ensure a smooth admission process for international students at Shiraz University.

Facilities at Shiraz University

Shiraz University offers a diverse range of facilities, creating a dynamic and well-equipped environment for students. The university’s student dormitories are located within the Eram campus, providing accommodations for both male and female students. Some of the female dormitories include Chamran, Mofatteh, and Eram. Additionally, special dormitories for married students are available at Shiraz University.

In terms of sports facilities, Shiraz University has established Iran’s first university-level equestrian center, offering a suitable space for students interested in horseback riding.

From a scientific and cultural perspective, the university hosts several attractions, including:

• Abu Rayhan Biruni Observatory
• Natural History and Technology Museum
• Narenjestan Qavam Garden-Museum
• Eram Botanical Garden

These facilities provide valuable scientific and cultural experiences for students. Additionally, the Agricultural Campus and Doroudzan Dam Research Center are among the university’s notable resources.

Final Thoughts

Studying at Shiraz University presents a unique opportunity for students who seek an academically and culturally rich environment. With advanced educational facilities, well-equipped dormitories, and various sports and recreational spaces, Shiraz University creates an ideal setting for academic and personal growth.

Furthermore, given Shiraz’s historical and cultural significance, studying at this university not only provides an excellent academic experience but also allows students to immerse themselves in Iran’s rich cultural heritage.

For international students, Study in Iran, an official platform of the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, offers guidance and services related to university admission. Through this institution, students can complete all admission procedures, obtain visas, and manage student life in Iran efficiently.