History

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Qatar University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the human past, focusing on the social, political, cultural, and economic developments across different regions and eras. This program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of historical processes, encouraging students to examine the origins of contemporary issues through a historical lens. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in historiography, research methodologies, and historical writing, equipping graduates with the skills necessary for careers in education, research, policy analysis, and cultural heritage management. Students will engage with diverse topics such as Arab history, Islamic civilization, Middle Eastern studies, Western history, and global historical perspectives. The program emphasizes the importance of primary source analysis, ethical research practices, and effective communication of complex ideas. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, research projects, and field visits, students will gain practical experience and a broad understanding of historical contexts. The faculty comprises experts in various historical disciplines, ensuring a rich academic environment that fosters inquiry and intellectual growth. Additionally, the program encourages participation in academic conferences, internships, and collaborative projects to prepare students for professional success. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in History will be well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or careers in academia, museum curation, public history, journalism, diplomacy, and international relations. By offering a dynamic and stimulating academic environment, Qatar University’s History program aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable about the past but also capable of applying historical insights to contemporary challenges and fostering cultural understanding in a globalized world.

Program Objectives

1. Encourage students to analyze causal relationships over time and across civilizations by using a mixed chronological, thematic, and topical approach.

2. Expand students’ ability to understand the chronological relationship between geography and history, resulting in an understanding of the diversity between lifestyles, cultures, and patterns of social interactions.

3. Enhance students’ recognition and understanding of major turning points in history.

4. Improve students’ communication skills by encouraging them to interpret, analyze, defend, and advocate scholarly positions in writing and orally, based on their study of global and regional history.

Learning Outcomes

1. Gather and comprehend historical information from primary sources.

2. Recognize the impact of civilizational interaction.

3. Compare instances of equality and disparity, and human success and failure in history.

4. Critically analyze historical facts to draw well-supported, informative conclusions.

5. Conduct scholarly and methodologically sound historical research.

6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Minimum 70% High School
• GPA 2.0 or higher after completion of 9 Credit Hours from the Core Curriculum
• Successful Completion of UNIV 110:"First Year Seminar"

Qatar University supports a wide variety of scholarships recipients each academic year in order to attract highly qualified students. While the vast majority of academic scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and scholarly achievement, Qatar University also provides other scholarships that also consider financial need. All scholarships cover the cost of tuition fees while the benefits of some scholarships may also include one or more of the following benefits: free accommodation in university dormitories, transportation to and from the University, and a yearly airfare ticket to the home country for students who are not residents of Qatar.The student shall pay the due penalties in case he/she drops courses, or withdraw from the semester.

Scholarships contained within this guide includes only first bachelor students and students who transfer from other universities to Qatar University. Non-degree applicants, visiting students and applicants seeking a second bachelor's degree are not eligible for academic scholarships offered by Qatar University.

History is a fundamental discipline that explores the development of human societies, cultures, and civilizations over time. At Qatar University, the Bachelor of Arts in History is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical processes that have shaped the modern world. The program offers a broad curriculum that covers various periods and regions, including ancient, medieval, and modern history, with particular emphasis on the Middle East and Qatar's own historical context. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for historical methodologies.

The program consists of core courses that introduce students to historiography, research methods, and ethical considerations in history. Elective courses allow students to focus on specific areas such as Islamic history, Gulf history, world history, and cultural history. In addition, students are required to undertake a research project or a thesis, which helps them to develop independent research skills and contribute original insights to the field.

The department actively incorporates modern pedagogical approaches, including seminars, workshops, and interactive lectures, to foster an engaging learning environment. Students benefit from experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, often engaging in research and publications that enhance their teaching and mentoring capabilities. The program prepares graduates for various career paths, including academia, research, archival work, journalism, cultural heritage management, and roles in governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Furthermore, Qatar University emphasizes the importance of intercultural understanding and global perspectives, integrating these themes into the history curriculum. Students have opportunities for study abroad programs and internships that provide practical experience and cultural exchange. The department also encourages postgraduate studies and supports students in pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in History at Qatar University aims to produce well-rounded graduates who possess a critical understanding of historical developments and the skills necessary for various professional careers. The program's rigorous academic structure, combined with a focus on regional and global histories, helps students appreciate the complexities of past societies and prepares them to analyze the interconnectedness of historical events and trends.