The American University of Beirut (AUB) was founded in 1866 as a private, independent, non-sectarian institution of higher learning, functioning under a charter from the State of New York. AUB has grown from 16 students in a rented house to a major university with over 7,572 students located on a 73-acre campus overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The University is governed by an autonomous Board of Trustees comprised of international leaders in business, education, diplomacy, engineering, philanthropy, science, and medicine. Since its founding, AUB has set standards in higher education worldwide. The University provides a rigorous curriculum in the American liberal arts tradition and the language of instruction is English. Academic programs are offered in undergraduate, graduate, medical, and professional education. The University stresses high academic standards and is committed to the ideals of critical thinking, open debate, and diversity. AUB is a coeducational institution that is open to all qualified students without regards to race, religion, economic status, or political affiliation. The University places a high premium on developing a student's appreciation of, and responsibility to, his/her respective society and culture.