03 November 2026
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8:10:45
Public universities play a major role in Bangladesh's higher education system, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines. From engineering and medical sciences to business, social sciences, agriculture and humanities, these institutions attract students from across the country through competitive admission tests and relatively affordable tuition fees.
Some of the country's most recognised universities have a long academic history, while others have developed strong reputations in specialised fields. Here is a look at some of the top public universities in Bangladesh, considering their academic reputation, educational facilities, research activities and contribution to higher education.
Established in 1921, the University of Dhaka is one of the oldest and most recognised public universities in Bangladesh. Located in the capital, it has a long history of academic excellence and played an important role in the country's Language Movement and independence movement.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through its faculties and institutes. Popular academic areas include business studies, economics, science, law, social sciences, arts and humanities. Its central location, extensive academic network and research activities make it a prominent choice for students.
The Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) is widely recognised for engineering, architecture and technology education. Located in Dhaka, BUET has built a strong reputation for its competitive admission process, academic standards and technical research.
Its major academic disciplines include civil engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science and engineering, architecture and urban planning. Students interested in engineering and technology often consider BUET among their preferred public universities.
Established in 1953, the University of Rajshahi is one of the largest and oldest public universities in Bangladesh. Situated in Rajshahi, the university is known for its spacious campus, diverse academic departments and long-standing contribution to higher education.
It offers programmes in science, business studies, arts, social sciences, law, agriculture and other disciplines. The university also has a strong academic and cultural environment, attracting students from different parts of the country.
Located in Savar, near Dhaka, Jahangirnagar University is particularly known for its scenic residential campus and diverse academic programmes. Established in 1970, it has developed into an important centre for higher education and research in Bangladesh.
The university offers degrees in science, biological sciences, business studies, social sciences, arts and humanities. Its residential campus, active student community and annual cultural events also contribute to its distinctive university environment.
The University of Chittagong is a major public university located in Hathazari, Chattogram. Established in 1966, it is known for its large campus surrounded by hills and greenery, along with a broad selection of academic programmes.
Students can pursue higher education in subjects such as business administration, economics, law, science, engineering, social sciences and humanities. Its academic facilities and wide range of disciplines make it an important destination for university applicants in southeastern Bangladesh.
Situated in Sylhet, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) is recognised for its focus on science, technology and research-based education. Established in 1986, it was among the early universities in Bangladesh to introduce a credit-based semester system.
SUST offers academic programmes in computer science, engineering, physical sciences, life sciences, business administration, social sciences and other fields. Its emphasis on technology-oriented education makes it a popular option for students interested in science and engineering.
Established in 1991, Khulna University is a public university known for its multidisciplinary academic structure and research activities. Located in Khulna, it offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across different academic schools.
Its academic areas include science, engineering, business administration, social sciences, arts, humanities, life sciences and environmental studies. The university also has an important role in higher education and research in southwestern Bangladesh.
For students interested in agriculture and related disciplines, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) is one of the country's most established specialised institutions. Founded in 1961, it is located in Mymensingh and has a significant role in agricultural education, research and development.
The university offers programmes in agriculture, veterinary science, animal husbandry, agricultural engineering, fisheries and related fields. Its research contributes to areas such as crop production, livestock development, fisheries and food security in Bangladesh.
Located in Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) is a public university established in 2008. It has developed a reputation for offering career-oriented academic programmes across several disciplines.
BUP offers education in business studies, security and strategic studies, social sciences, arts, science and technology. Its structured academic environment and focus on professional education attract students interested in both traditional and career-focused subjects.
Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) is another recognised public engineering university in Bangladesh. Located in Raozan, Chattogram, it specialises in engineering, architecture, urban planning and applied sciences.
CUET offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in disciplines such as civil engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science and engineering, and architecture. Its technical education and research facilities make it an important institution for aspiring engineers.
Besides these ten institutions, several other public universities also have important roles in the country's higher education system. Some notable examples include:
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET) – Known for engineering and technology education.
Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET) – Offers specialised programmes in engineering and applied sciences.
Jagannath University – A well-known public university located in Old Dhaka.
Islamic University, Bangladesh – Offers programmes across science, business, humanities and social sciences.
Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University – Specialises in agricultural education and research.
Public universities in Bangladesh offer students opportunities to pursue higher education in a wide range of academic fields. Institutions such as Dhaka University, BUET, Rajshahi University, Jahangirnagar University and SUST have established strong reputations, while specialised institutions such as BAU, CUET and RUET serve particular academic interests.
The best university choice ultimately depends on the subject, department, admission requirements and career goals of each student. Comparing academic programmes and departmental facilities can help applicants find an institution that matches their future plans.
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