UOD – June, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) —

The University of Duhok proudly celebrates the graduation of the 18th cohort of the College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, marking another milestone in the college’s journey of preparing qualified professionals in sports, physical education, health, and athletic development.

A College Dedicated to Excellence in Sports Sciences

The College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences was originally established as a department within the College of Education during the 2004–2005 academic year before becoming an independent college on May 3, 2005. Since then, it has grown into one of the university’s leading academic units dedicated to advancing sport sciences, physical education, and athletic performance.

The college currently includes two academic branches: Theoretical Sciences and Individual and Team Sports, offering a four-year bachelor's degree program in Physical Education and Sports Sciences. Its academic staff includes more than fifty highly qualified faculty members holding advanced degrees and scientific titles. The college also offers postgraduate programs at the Master's and PhD levels across various specializations.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Students benefit from a modern sports environment supported by extensive facilities, including an international-standard football stadium, courts for basketball, handball, futsal, and tennis, a semi-Olympic swimming pool, and a large indoor sports hall. These facilities not only support student learning but also host regional and international sporting events, including West Asia basketball competitions and major futsal championships.

Through practical training, academic coursework, and field experiences, students develop the skills required to pursue careers as physical education teachers, sports trainers, fitness specialists, sports injury rehabilitation professionals, and administrators within sports clubs and federations.

Preparing Graduates for Diverse Career Opportunities

The college places strong emphasis on employability and community engagement, aligning with the University of Duhok Strategic Plan (2023–2038). Graduates are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, enabling them to contribute to schools, sports academies, fitness centers, rehabilitation programs, and sports organizations throughout the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

In recent years, the college has also expanded its outreach activities through specialized sports academies that provide training opportunities for children and young athletes, helping to nurture the next generation of sports talent.

A Celebration of Achievement and New Beginnings

Graduation Photography day represented more than the completion of an academic journey—it marked the beginning of a new chapter for a generation of graduates committed to promoting health, sportsmanship, and community well-being. Surrounded by some family members, friends, faculty, and mentors, the graduates celebrated years of dedication, perseverance, and personal growth.

As they join the growing network of UOD alumni, these graduates carry forward the knowledge, values, and professional skills acquired during their university experience, ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

View the Graduation Photo Gallery

We invite students, families, alumni, and future applicants to explore the graduation photo gallery and celebrate the achievements of the 18th cohort of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE

Editor's Note: This story is part of the University of Duhok's graduation coverage series and will be updated with additional information, student interviews, and graduation statistics as they become available.

University Press Office, June 16, 2026
Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali,
Photography:

• Ali Habib Habib
• Mohammed A. Tahar
• Harman Jangeer Ahmed
• Mehvan M. Salih