History & Mission
As a higher-education institution operated by the global Seventh-day Adventist denomination, MEU is connected to the second largest Christian education system in the world. This allows the University to benefit from a constant flow of international staff and students from all over the world, fostering an intellectually and internationally open environment.
MEU was originally founded as the Adventist College of Beirut and located in Mouseitbeh. In 1946 the institution was relocated to its present location, in Sabtieh, Sad El-Bauchrieh. During the same year it was renamed Middle East College, and the cornerstone of what is now North Hall was laid by His Excellency Sheikh Bechara ElKhoury, then President of the Republic of Lebanon.
In 1949, the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Learning granted the
institution the accreditation to offer studies in higher education. On June 28, 2001, Middle East College was formally and legally renamed Middle East University. This significant development further validated the role of MEU as an important center of higher education for the people of Lebanon and the Middle East.
Read the full history of MEU here.
Vision
To be known as an international academic community that facilitates the transformation of students into men and women who are distinguished by their personal, professional, service-oriented and faith-based lives.
Mission
As the Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher learning in MENAU, Middle East University influences students’ hearts and minds, empowering them to live lives of professional competence, integrity, compassion, and faith, with a view towards eternity.
Core Values
– Wisdom: A passion for learning, thinking, creating and holistically applying knowledge to life.
– Faith: A spiritual environment that nurtures a personal faith in God.
– Integrity: Ethical standards and personal moral character in all areas of life.
– Compassion: Love, empathy, fairness, and respect reflected in service to others.
– Community: Unity and peace in diversity, enriched by understanding and dialogue.
– Stewardship: Accountability in the use of resources, including time, health, influence, and the environment.
MEU’s history timeline
1939
University Established as the Adventist College of Beirut
1946
Relocated to current location from Mouseitbeh. In the same year, the College was renamed to Middle East College by His Excellency Sheikh Bechara El-Khoury.
1949
The College was granted accreditation to offer studies in higher education.
1975
Civil war began. The College remained open and God’s hand of protection was continually over it.
2001
College granted University status with three faculties. it was renamed to Middle East University and became an important center of higher education for the people of Lebanon and the Middle East.
2007
Due to neccesity, University faculties increased by one: Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
2009
The President of Lebanon, Mr. Michael Suleiman signed the formal approval decree issued by the Minister’s Cabinet .
2012
MEU approved as a Receiving School in the Adventist College Abroad program (ACA).
2014
Middle East University(MEU) made a significant move to providing year-round theological training and entered into partnership with MENA Union of the seventh day Adventist Church to provide training programs and educational services for their immediate needs, a closing of the circle of its original establishment
2017
MEU transitioned from Griggs University to Andrews University affiliation.