Fjona Mitrushi

Albanian University - Universitas Fabrefacta Optime

Initially known as Universitas Fabrefacta Optime (UFO), the Albanian University initiated its first academic year in 2004-2005, with the first course of studies at the Department of Dentistry, with about 100 students. Since the first year of its inception, the University placed in the center of academic life, the promotion of the intellectual product and scientific research, all of this finalized with the First Conference of Dentistry "UFO Dental", which opened the way to a tradition now already consolidated. A year later, the University started offering undergraduate majors in other branches such as, Pharmacy, Architecture, Legal and Political Sciences. Approximately 600 undergraduate students attended during this academic year. Contemporary study programs, a long-experienced academic and professional staff, as well as modern infrastructure are some of the elements on which the University still relies today. At present, the University counts several consolidated academic programs:  8 Specializations in Dentistry,  16 Bachelors,  3 II-level integrated programs  13 Professional Masters,  20 Master of Science (MSc.)  8 Doctorate (PhD.) The academic infrastructure is well expanded through the cities of Tirana, Durres, Berat and Fier. It counts a total number of about 6000 Students and 400 lecturers and professors, representing a pioneer in the higher education infrastructure in Albania. Since its first days the school thrives in the development of knowledge and academic excellence through the faculties in the Medical Sciences, Architecture & Engineering as well as the Social Sciences School. All of these entities have designed a specific strategic plan in order to bring its course curriculum closer to the European orientation, especially where political, economic and social factor intertwine.