🎓 The Best Universities in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Overview

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Jul 2
3 min read

📘 Introduction: Higher Education in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in higher education over the past few decades. With a growing youth population, increased demand for skilled professionals, and expanding economic sectors, the country has prioritized the development of its tertiary education system. Today, Bangladesh hosts over 160 universities, including public, private, and specialized institutions, serving millions of students across diverse academic fields. The country’s universities are playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of engineers, scientists, business leaders, educators, and public officials. This article highlights ten of the most respected and impactful universities in Bangladesh based on academic strength, innovation, student outcomes, and contribution to national development.

🏅 Top 10 Universities in Bangladesh

1. University of Dhaka

Established in 1921, the University of Dhaka is the oldest and most prestigious public university in Bangladesh. It has earned a reputation as the country's intellectual center, producing numerous national leaders, scholars, and Nobel laureates. With over 37,000 students and 83 departments, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across arts, sciences, business, law, and engineering.

2. Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)

BUET is the most respected institution for engineering and architecture studies in the country. Established in 1962, BUET admits some of the top-performing students through a competitive entrance exam. Its graduates are highly sought after in both domestic and international job markets, particularly in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

3. North South University (NSU)

Founded in 1992, North South University is the first private university in Bangladesh. It is widely recognized for its modern curriculum, international faculty, and strong focus on research. NSU’s School of Business and Economics is particularly well-regarded, and the university maintains active partnerships with institutions abroad to promote global learning.

4. BRAC University

BRAC University, established by BRAC—the world’s largest NGO—is known for academic innovation, social responsibility, and inclusive education. The university offers programs in law, computer science, economics, public health, and more. Its emphasis on research, especially in development and health sciences, makes it a leader among private universities.

5. University of Rajshahi

Founded in 1953, the University of Rajshahi is the second-largest public university in Bangladesh. Located in the northwestern city of Rajshahi, it serves over 30,000 students and offers more than 50 academic departments. The campus is known for its vibrant academic life and contributions to national education policy.

6. Jahangirnagar University

Established in 1970, Jahangirnagar University is the only fully residential public university in Bangladesh. It is located in a scenic area near Dhaka and has gained prominence for its departments of economics, environmental science, and drama and dramatics. The university promotes a unique cultural and academic atmosphere that emphasizes both scholarship and creativity.

7. Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST)

Located in Sylhet, SUST is a leading public university that emphasizes science and technology education. Since its establishment in 1986, it has introduced several academic reforms, including a semester-based credit system and online registration processes. SUST is known for its research in physics, computer science, and applied sciences.

8. Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX)

BUTEX is the country’s only public university dedicated to textile engineering and fashion technology. Established as a university in 2010, it plays a critical role in supporting Bangladesh’s readymade garments (RMG) industry, which is a pillar of the national economy. Its graduates are instrumental in advancing innovation in textile production and sustainability.

9. Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET)

CUET is one of the top engineering universities in Bangladesh, offering specialized education in civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Situated in the port city of Chittagong, it has contributed significantly to the industrial and infrastructural development of the country.

10. Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU)

BAU, located in Mymensingh, is the premier institution for agricultural education and research in Bangladesh. Established in 1961, the university supports sustainable agriculture, veterinary medicine, fisheries, and environmental science. Its research efforts address national food security, climate resilience, and rural development.

🔍 Conclusion

Bangladesh’s leading universities are more than just academic institutions—they are engines of national progress, innovation, and social transformation. Whether in the capital Dhaka or regional cities like Sylhet, Rajshahi, or Mymensingh, these universities are training professionals and scholars who will shape the country’s future. As Bangladesh aspires to become a knowledge-based economy, its top universities continue to evolve in response to global academic and technological trends, while preserving their unique cultural and social values.