Fashion school by Elie Saab

LAU to start high in demand BA program

The Lebanese American University (LAU) has recently announced that it will inaugurate a new undergraduate program in Fashion Design, under the supervision of globally renowned designer Elie Saab.

“LAU is a pioneer in offering this major,” said Nada Hajj, director of admissions at LAU, Beirut. “The leading local fashion design school, ‘ESMODE’, grants certificates only, while LAU is offering a three-year program after which graduates will receive a bachelor's degree,” she said.

LAU obtained the license to launch the program from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education during the summer. The new major will be part of the Faculty of Architecture and Design.

Saab will direct the program and the curriculum. “He might also tutor some special courses,” said Hajj. Saab will also manage the recruitment of staff and teachers.
The program will be available at LAU’s two campuses in Beirut and Byblos. Courses will begin in the Fall 2013 semester. Admission began in October and will continue till January.

According to Hajj, the program has big potential with a high demand from both male and female candidates. “We are running orientation sessions in schools outside Beirut to explain the new program to high school students. We are also targeting students from overseas.” Tuition fees have not been finalized yet, but Hajj said the fees will start at $500 per credit.