Graduate Open House Signals Start of Enrollment Period

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), welcomed hundreds of prospective students to its Virtual Graduate Studies Open House on November 22. 

“Your Future is Here” was the theme of the live event, which provided an opportunity for interested students to learn more about HBKU’s graduate program pathways for the 2022-2023 academic year, as well as its unique research opportunities and vibrant campus life. 

Sessions were accessible via the HBKU website and social media platforms, adding flexibility for interested students at home and abroad to learn about the university’s programs across the areas of Islamic studies; humanities and social sciences; science and engineering; health and life sciences; law; and public policy.

The Virtual Graduate Studies Open House began with a live welcome presentation by HBKU’s Provost, Student Affairs, and college deans. The university’s six colleges hosted individual breakout sessions for prospective students to connect with the deans about specific programs and research activities that would further their careers. The Office of Enrollment presented the admissions requirements and process. 

In his address, Dr. Michael J. Benedik, HBKU Provost, said: “As a research-intensive university, HBKU offers extraordinary opportunities for students to engage in inquiry and discovery. We encourage our students to broaden their intellectual depth by seeking out problems and working through solutions that lie at the crossroads of traditional disciplines. In turn, we find that our graduates emerge as global citizens with lifelong learning skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, which will enable them to not only compete but also succeed in the global market.”

During the breakout sessions, the Office of Enrollment discussed the admissions requirements in detail and answered questions that were brought forward by prospective students. The discussions were moderated by Ghuroor Abdulwaheed, an HBKU alumna.

Dr. Maryam H. Al-Mannai, Vice President of Student Affairs at HBKU, said: “Having a virtual Open House ensures our ability to reach prospective students in Qatar and around the world. It also helps HBKU to continue diversifying its student body. Aiming to support students in making one of the most important decisions for their future, the Virtual Graduate Studies Open House highlighted the exceptional learning opportunities and pathways for professional and personal growth at HBKU. It was also an opportunity to showcase the efforts of our colleges and research institutes in addressing national priorities while having an impact in the region and globally.”

Recently commemorating 10 years of establishment, HBKU has been an embodiment of QF’s commitment to lifelong learning and research innovation since its founding. The university offers 33 graduate degree programs across six interdisciplinary colleges. A fully diverse student body - with more than 60 nationalities and 34% Qatari citizens - currently comprises over 800 students. HBKU’s admissions cycle for 2022-2023 is now open and students may apply through admissions.hbku.edu.qa.