Qatar’s education system consists of many globally recognized colleges and universities. These institutions are known for their commitment to academic excellence and sustainable development and for providing a high-quality education in Qatar, attracting both local and foreign students.
For the top-ranked colleges and universities in the state of Qatar, you’ll find various academic programs. These programs cover fields ranging from the humanities and social sciences to engineering, medicine, and business. The dedication of these colleges in Qatar makes education truly exceptional. Students can actively pursue their passions and interests through these academies. Moreover, the country offers a lively and diverse environment, enriching the learning experience for all.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 20 colleges and universities in Qatar for 2024. These establishments offer a notable education and uphold the highest academic standards. Herewith, we present a list of universities in Qatar for your perusal.
List of Top 20 Colleges & Universities in Qatar
1. Qatar University
| Website | http://www.qu.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 1977 |
| Contact | QUMCC@qu.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha. |
Qatar University (QU) is one of the leading universities in the state of Qatar. With 50 bachelor’s and 47 master’s programs, QU offers a diverse range of academic options in Arabic and English. This institution offers a high-quality education, with colleges, programs, and courses that adhere to international standards. QU has a modern research facility with a research complex and 18 centers of excellence. Additionally, community engagement is an essential part of QU’s mission and vision. To enroll for the next semester at Qatar University, students must pay all current semester fees upfront. Tuition fees are paid at the beginning of each semester and vary by program and course.
2. Texas A&M University at Qatar
| Website | https://www.qatar.tamu.edu/ |
| Founded | 2003 |
| Contact | CAPT@qatar.tamu.edu |
| Location | Education City, Al Rayyan. |
Texas A&M University at Qatar is an esteemed branch of Texas A&M University. It is located in Education City, Al Rayyan, Qatar. Established in 2003, the university offers Bachelor of Science degrees. The programs include chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and petroleum engineering. In 2011, they introduced graduate programs in chemical engineering. These programs provide Master of Science (M.S.) and Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) degrees. The curriculum is taught in English and covers diverse subjects such as science, mathematics, liberal arts, and humanities. The undergraduate program at Texas A&M University in Qatar charges tuition per credit hour. For Qatar residents without sponsorship, the tuition for the 2022–23 academic year begins at QAR 5,835, while for non-Qatar residents with Qatar Foundation Sponsored Visas, it begins at QAR 6,175.
3. University of Doha for Science & Technology
| Website | https://www.udst.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2002 |
| Contact | university.records@udst.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) is one of the premier national applied universities in Qatar. Founded in 2002, it offers 50 extensive programs in various fields. These programs include engineering technology, industrial trades, business management, computing and information technology, health sciences, and continuous education. The UDST fee structure accommodates different student categories. For their Foundation and Diploma Programs, full-time Qatari residents pay 12,500 QAR per semester. However, international students pay 18,750 QAR. Part-time Qatari residents can select individual courses at 2,500 QAR each. The Technician Certificate Program tuition is 12,500 QAR per semester for full-time students. For part-time students, it is 2,500 QAR per course. Course fees vary across disciplines. Graduate programs have specific rates per credit. Work term fees for business management, computing, and engineering technology programs amount to 5,000 QAR per course.
4. Doha Institute for Graduate Studies
| Website | https://www.dohainstitute.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Contact | admissions@dohainstitute.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
The Doha Institute for Graduate Studies (DI), located in Doha, Qatar, is a prestigious higher education institute. Launched in 2014, it serves as a distinguished academy for graduate studies. Students enrolled in its programs can pursue master’s degrees in various fields within the social sciences and humanities.
The Institute offers a diverse range of courses, each with its own fee structure. For instance, the total tuition fees for programs like philosophy, history, comparative literature (Arabic-Western), linguistics and Arabic lexicography, sociology, and anthropology amount to 60,000 QR. On the other hand, the fees for the clinical psychology master’s program are 180,000 QR.
Regarding doctoral studies, students who do not qualify for the program’s scholarship are required to pay tuition fees of 7,000 QR per credit hour. This fee does not cover additional expenses such as field visits, internships, or training. Therefore, it is estimated that the total tuition costs for doctoral studies will be approximately 420,000 QR (7,000 QR x 60 credit hours). You can find out more about their fee structure for different programs and courses on their website
5. Qatar Aeronautical College
| Website | http://qaa.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 1977 |
| Contact | snair@qaa.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
Qatar Aeronautical Academy (QAA) was founded in 1977 as the Civil Aviation Academy of the Gulf States. It stands as one of the leading training providers for the Gulf region’s aviation industry. QAA offers a wide range of full-time courses for pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, meteorologists, airport operations management personnel, and flight dispatchers. It also provides diverse short courses in various aviation-related disciplines. For detailed information about course fees, please contact the institution directly.
6. Hamad bin Khalifa University
| Website | https://www.hbku.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Contact | admissions@hbku.edu.qa |
| Location | Education City |
Launched in 2010 under the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) thrives in Education City, Qatar. As a homegrown research and graduate studies institution, HBKU boasts diverse colleges: Islamic Studies, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Engineering, Law, Health and Life Sciences, and Public Policy. These colleges offer an array of programs across various fields, with tuition starting at QAR 36,000 and varying based on the course and degree. For detailed course fee structures, visit their official website.
7. University Foundation College
| Website | https://ufc.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Contact | +974 4444 1291 |
| Location | Doha |
University Foundation College (UFC) is Qatar’s pioneering institution for UK university preparatory programs. It is licensed by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. UFC combines academic expertise with unwavering student support to provide an exceptional educational experience. The college offers an array of courses, which include the renowned Pre-Master’s Programme (PMP), International Foundation Year (IFY), and General English. For those considering the NCUK/NCC International Foundation Programmes, the fees are QR 73,000, with an additional deposit fee of QR 10,000. You can find detailed information about the courses on their website.
8. CUC Ulster University
| Website | https://cuc-ulster.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Contact | info@cuc-ulster.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
Founded in 2018, CUC Ulster stands as a vibrant and forward-thinking university in Qatar. With a vision to become a prominent private higher education provider in the country, CUC is set to create a state-of-the-art campus in the upcoming City of Lusail. This new campus will accommodate a thriving community of up to 5,000 students.
The fee structure for CUC varies for courses. Here are the costs for the courses offered:
- Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma: 55,500 QAR annually
- Ulster University Undergraduate Degrees (BSc Hons/BEng Hons.): 75,000 QAR annually
- Ulster University International Foundation Programme: 75,000 QAR for the full program
- Ulster University Postgraduate Degrees (MSc) 2-Year P/T: 90,000 QAR for the full program
- Ulster University MBA (Women in Leadership) 2-Year P/T: 120,000 QAR for the full program
- Pre-Sessional English Programme (5 modules)
CUC is an ideal place to start on an exciting educational journey where excellence meets innovation.
9. Community College Of Qatar
| Website | https://www.ccq.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Contact | +974 44011500 |
| Location | Doha |
In September 2010, Qatar witnessed a significant milestone as the Community College of Qatar (CCQ) collaborated with Houston Community College. CCQ has since emerged as a prominent institution with four campuses and 5,000 students. It offers diverse associate and bachelor’s degree programs, including transferable degrees, high-demand 2+2 programs, applied science degrees, and continuing education certificates. CCQ’s alliances ensure smooth credit transfers for flexible bachelor’s degree pursuits. CCQ charges a one-time nominal fee of 200 QR when applying for the first enrollment, and 150 QR is paid as the registration fee for the placement test. For every course, the fee structure varies. For more information, contact the college directly to inquire about the tuition fees for the program you are interested in.
10. Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts
| Website | https://qatar.vcu.edu/ |
| Founded | 1998 |
| Contact | vcuqadmission@vcu.edu |
| Location | Ar-Rayyan |
Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, VCUarts Qatar, the esteemed Qatar campus of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Richmond, Virginia, has been providing exceptional art education since 1998 in collaboration with Qatar Foundation. With a diverse range of programs, students can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design, interior design, and painting & printmaking, a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history, or a Master of Fine Arts degree in design. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Virginia Commonwealth University offers baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. For undergraduate tuition fees at VCUarts Qatar, full-time enrollment costs QAR 112,403.20 per academic year, while part-time enrollment amounts to QAR 4,488.12 per credit. Graduate students enrolling full-time can expect to pay QAR 99,204.56 per academic year, and part-time enrollment is charged at QAR 5,507.32 per credit.
11. Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar
| Website | https://qatar-weill.cornell.edu/ |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Contact | admissions@qatar-med.cornell.edu |
| Location | Ar-Rayyan |
Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar (WCM-Q) leads the way in medical education, research, and population health in the Middle East. Established in 2001 through a collaboration between Cornell University and the Qatar Foundation, WCM-Q is the first American medical school outside the United States. The current cost for the medical curriculum in the academic year 2024-2025 is US $67,400 or QR 245,403.40. With the feasible tuition and large selection of programs, the university is recognized as one of the premier higher education institutions
12. Northwestern University Qatar
| Website | https://www.qatar.northwestern.edu/ |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Contact | admissions@qatar.northwestern.edu |
| Location | Education City |
Established in 2008 through a Qatar partnership, Northwestern University Qatar (NU-Q) excels in journalism, communication, and media studies. As Northwestern University’s Qatar campus, it offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The 2022-23 academic year sees total tuition and fees at US $64,608 or QAR 235,173. NU-Q provides a vibrant educational journey in media and communication.
13. HEC Paris in Qatar
| Website | https://www.qatar.exed.hec.edu/ |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Contact | +974 4141 3200, admissions@hec.fr |
| Location | Doha |
In 2010, HEC Paris partnered with the Qatar Foundation, launching Qatar’s inaugural International Executive MBA. HEC Paris offers diverse programs, which include executive MBAs, specialized master’s degrees, executive certificates, engaging short programs, and custom programs. These program tuition fees vary in nature. They are as follows: Advanced Management Program ($49,250), Executive MBA ($114,000), Young Enterprise Program ($3,100), Specialized Master’s Degree ($69,000), and Executive Certificate in Healthcare Management and Policy ($19,500). HEC Paris provides a world-class education that empowers students to reach their fullest potential.
14. Qatar Aeronautical Academy
| Website | http://qaa.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 1977 |
| Contact | +974 4440 8869 |
| Location | Doha |
The Qatar Aeronautical Academy (QAA) is a flight training school based in Doha, Qatar. QAA provides training for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals. The academy offers a range of courses including private pilot licenses, commercial pilot licenses, instrument ratings, multi-engine ratings, and type ratings for aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
QAA has a modular fee structure charging per flight hour and written exam fees. On average, costs range from $55,000 to $90,000 to complete the entire commercial pilot license.
15. Georgetown University in Qatar
| Website | https://www.qatar.georgetown.edu/ |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Contact | sfsqadmissions@georgetown.edu |
| Location | Education City |
Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service (SFS), founded in 1919 and I’m 2015 in Qatar, educates students about global issues and prepares them for careers in business, government, and humanitarian fields. The SFS offers interdisciplinary undergraduate programs in Washington, DC, and Doha, Qatar. Its rigorous liberal arts curriculum provides a solid foundation. Tuition for the Doha campus is QAR 16,184 for the Summer semester and QAR 112,916 for full-time students in the Fall and Winter semesters. Part-time students pay QAR 9,410 per credit hour.
16. MIE-SPPU
| Website | https://www.miesppu.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2021 |
| Contact | admissions@miesppu.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
MIE SPPU Institute of Higher Education, Qatar’s offshore campus of Pune University, has been operational since May 2021. Licensed by Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education, MIE partners with Savitribai Phule Pune University, known as the “Oxford of the East.” As the first Indian university in Qatar, MIE offers undergraduate degree programs in majors such as Business Administration, Science, Commerce, and Arts. The programs have academic credits, and the tuition fees amount to QAR 33,000.
17. Academic Bridge Program
| Website | https://abp.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Contact | info@abp.edu.qa |
| Location | Education City |
In 2001, the Academic Bridge Program (ABP) was launched to help secondary school graduates from Qatar and neighboring countries enhance their English, math, and science skills. The ABP, part of the Qatar Foundation, prepares students for admission to selective universities. It strives to be the leading Post-Secondary Preparatory Program in Qatar and the Gulf Region. Tuition fees are QR 60,348 per year for Qatari students under Family Sponsorship and QR 73,053 per year for non-Qatari students.
18. Doha Film Institute
| Website | https://www.dohafilminstitute.com/ |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Contact | (+974) 4420-0505 |
| Location | Doha |
Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani founded Doha Film Institute (DFI) in 2010 as a nonprofit cultural organization. DFI actively supports the growth of the Qatari film community, providing funding and international networking opportunities to creators. Every year, DFI hosts two major film festivals, Ajyal and Qumra. Additionally, DFI has financially supported over 600 projects from development through post-production since its inception
19. Qatar Finance and Business Academy (QFBA)
| Website | https://www.qfba.edu.qa/ |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Contact | Info@qfba.edu.qa |
| Location | Doha |
The Qatar Finance and Business Academy (QFBA) operates as the educational arm of the Qatar Financial Centre Authority. QFBA offers professional instruction in financial disciplines for individuals at all levels. That includes entry-level to senior executives, focusing on banking, asset management, capital markets, and insurance sectors. QFBA’s goal is to strengthen expertise and capacity in financial services, with a specific focus on Qatar’s financial sector. The annual tuition fee for QFBA is QR 70,400.
20. Qatar Leadership Centre
| Website | https://www.qlc.org.qa/ |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Contact | info@qlc.org.qa |
| Location | Doha |
In 2010, HH Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani founded Qatar Leadership Centre (QLC) as a national institute dedicated to cultivating leadership skills in Qatari professionals holding executive positions in government, public sector, and private sector organizations. QLC provides management development programs and offers different fee structures based on student categories. Non-Qatari, non-resident students in G7 – G1 category have an annual tuition fee of 65,466. Visit their website for detailed fee information. Embark on a transformative journey with Qatar Leadership Centre and unlock your leadership potential.
Overview of Qatar’s education system
Qatar’s education system is a vibrant and ever-evolving landscape, driven by substantial government investments. It ensures high-quality education for all its citizens and international students. The system emphasizes bilingual education, with both Arabic and English as primary languages of instruction. Qatar boasts renowned international universities and branch campuses, offering a wide array of degree programs. Collaboration between academia and industry fuels research and innovation. Scholarships and grants support students’ higher education aspirations. The ultimate goal of Qatar’s education system is to foster well-rounded individuals equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a globalized world. It’s a pathway to a brighter future for Qatar’s learners.
Importance of Choosing the Right College/University
When choosing a college or university, you shape your educational journey and future prospects. The right institution sets the foundation for academic growth, personal development, and career success. Qatar offers exceptional opportunities, with esteemed faculties, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections. Consider program offerings, accreditation, campus culture, activities, and career support to make an informed decision. The right choice unlocks endless possibilities and empowers you to achieve your goals.
FAQs
What are the top 3 colleges or universities in Qatar in terms of reputation and quality of education in 2024?
Following are the top 3 colleges of Universities in terms of reputation and quality of education in 2024
- Qatar University: Qatar University is ranked 1st in Qatar in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
- Hamad Bin Khalifa University: Hamad Bin Khalifa University is ranked 2nd in Qatar in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
- Weill Cornell Medical College: Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar is ranked 451-500 in the world and 3rd in Qatar in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
What is the estimated tuition fee for an undergraduate degree at Qatar University in 2024?
The estimated tuition fee for an undergraduate degree at Qatar University in 2024 is as follows:
- Bachelor’s level: QR 1,100 per credit hour for the courses of the College of Education, the College of Law, the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, and for the humanity courses of the College of Arts and Science.
- College of Business and Economics: QR 1,200 per credit hour
- College of Health Sciences: QR 1,200 per credit hour
- College of Nursing: QR 1,200 per credit hour
- Foundation program: QR 1,200 per credit hour
- Scientific courses in the College of Arts and Science: QR 1,200 per credit hour
- College of Engineering: QR 1,400 per credit hour
- College of Pharmacy: QR 1,400 per credit hour
- Arabic language program for non-native speakers: QR 1,400 per credit hour
- Colleges of Medicine and Dental Medicine:
- First year: QR 38,000
- Second and third years: QR 72,000
- Fourth year: QR 108,000
- Fifth and sixth years: QR 138,000 each
Please note that these are just estimates and the actual tuition fee may vary depending on the course and the number of credit hours taken. You can find more information on tuition fees on the Qatar University website.
Which university in Qatar offers scholarships for international students?
- Qatar University offers a variety of scholarships for international students, including the Competitive Scholarships program(which covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.), Short Scholarships for the Arabic Program for Non-Native Program, and the Talent Scholarship Program.
- The Doha Institute for Graduate Studies Scholarships offers scholarships to international students. The scholarship includes a 10% – 100% tuition fee discount, free accommodation in dormitories, health insurance, a monthly stipend, and travel tickets to and from your country.
- Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar provides a need-based grant program for all nationalities. The grant program offers a tuition fee discount ranging from 10% to full coverage.
- Qatar Foundation (QF), a non-profit organization, promotes global opportunities and activities to benefit the community. They actively offer scholarships to undergraduate students studying in Education City, covering tuition and textbook fees.
Please note that these are just a few of the many universities in Qatar that offer scholarships for international students. You can find more information on scholarships on the websites of the above-mentioned universities.
What is the approximate cost of pursuing an MBA program at HEC Paris in Qatar in 2024?
HEC Paris in Qatar mentions on their website that the approximate cost of tuition for pursuing an MBA program in 2024 is QR 415,017.00 or $114,000. The other expenses are mainly Accommodation: QR 24,000
Living expenses: QR 18,000
Please note that these are just estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on your individual circumstances
What are the top 5 colleges or universities in Qatar that offer courses in business and management?
Here are the top 5 colleges or universities in Qatar that offer courses in business and management.
- Qatar University
- HEC Paris
- Al Rayyan International University College (ARIU) in partnership with the University of Derby
- University of Doha for Science and Technology (College of Business Management)
- Carnegie Mellon Qatar