Since Independence a large number of educational and research institutions have been established in Pakistan. While this represents a massive achievement, there remains a considerable shortfall in the quality of tertiary education. Existing institutions are constantly beset by problems, which have led to rapidly deteriorating standards. As a result it has been difficult for these institutions to meet Pakistan's need for development of professional manpower. Needless to say, a country, which cannot develop its peoples' intellectual and scientific potential, is bound to be left far behind in today's increasingly competitive world.

The college opted to offer degree courses of the University of London, External Programme, ‘A’ levels from University of Cambridge Board, CAT and ACCA from ACCA, the UK and certificate and diploma qualifications of the Organization of Tourism and Hospitality Management, the UK. This is the only college entirely devoted to the provision of UK tertiary education in Islamabad. University College of Islamabad is an approved centre of the University of Cambridge Board. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) permitted UCI to teach the Diploma in Economics in 1996. The diploma providing institutions are regularly visited by the members of LSE and External Programme to provide guidance to staff and students.

Mature students are welcome. Access to our courses is deliberately flexible so that we admit not only the bright school and college-leavers, but also those with non-traditional qualifications who can benefit from BSc and LLB of the University of London and ACCA/CAT & tourism and hospitality management qualifications.