Page 6 - Faculty Handbook 2021-22

1.6. Mission

To achieve excellence in teaching and learning, and engage in impactful research and community
service, in an inspiring environment conducive to creativity and innovation.

1.7. Core Values
The core values of DU are:

1) Educational Excellence
2) Integrity
3) Commitment
4) Accountability
5) Life-long learning
6) Active citizenship

1.8. Graduate Attributes
Graduate Attributes are those generic qualities which a graduate from any program offered by
the University ought to possess. DU has five graduate attributes.

1) Master theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the students’ chosen discipline
commensurate with program level and objectives.

2) Demonstrate capacity for effective communication, critical thinking, creativity and
innovation.
3) Exhibit honesty, discipline and accountability.
4) Practice tolerance, humility, respect for differences and commitment to service.
5) Practice life-long learning.

1.9. Academic Year and Semesters
The academic year at DU is divided into two main semesters (known as Fall Semester and Spring
Semester) of sixteen weeks of instruction each, and a Summer semester of eight weeks of
instruction (it delivers the same number of contact hours as in the regular semester). However,

for the FP the academic year is divided into three equal semesters of 14 weeks each.

1.10. DU Website
Dhofar University has a dynamic Website which provides the necessary information necessary to
all the stakeholders. Please visit the DU Website for a tour of the university. (www.du.edu.om)

1.11. University Catalogue

DU publishes a comprehensive catalogue every academic year giving details about its operations,
academic programs offered, admission requirements and procedure, tuition fees, graduation
requirements, and relevant rules and regulations concerning students. The catalogue is made
available on DU Website. (www.du.edu.om)

1.12. Student Characteristics
The number of students in DU grew rapidly from 774 in 2004-05 to around 5298 in 2020-21. The
overwhelming majority of the students are in the age group 18-25 years. Around 65% of the

students are on MoHERI or other scholarships. Most students are Omanis and from Dhofar region.
Also, there are few international students studying in DU. Female students outnumber their male
counterpart and constitute almost 60% of student population.

Dhofar University Faculty Handbook (2021-22) Page 2