Heriot-Watt expands academic frontiers in UAE by launching PhD programmes

cotland's minister of external affairs and international development, Humza Yousaf MSP, announced the launch of PhD programmes at Heriot-Watt University's Dubai Campus on Wednesday. PhD programmes will be available from the university's School of Management and Languages, School of Engineering and Physical Science and School of the Built Environment.

2012 saw a significant increase in the number of students in UAE enrolling for higher education pursuing bachelors and postgraduate degrees; however, this figure was only 1% for doctoral programmes.

Yousaf said: "Heriot-Watt's new and extended PhD programme will offer graduates more opportunity to further their studies. The Dubai Campus, opened by the first minister in 2011, now has capacity for 4,500 students and over 100 staff, a testament to the quality of education offered at Heriot Watt and its ambitions as a truly international university."

"We have a world-class infrastructure with 15 universities, five specialist higher education institutes and excellent teaching resources, it is sector we are very proud of and a fantastic example of Scotland's capabilities in delivering world class events which we'll see again as we host the Ryder Cup and the Commonwealth Games in 2014. Education is an international business and it is exciting to see such collaborations with the Emirates come to fruition reaping benefits for the Scottish economy," added Yousaf.

The Edinburgh headquartered university is one of the leading institutions in the UK and Scotland with a strong academic legacy of 180 years. At present the university offers over 40 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Ammar Kaka, head of Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus, said: "Heriot-Watt University Dubai campus understands the requirement for quality academic research options in the UAE and are excited about introducing some of the most prestigious PhD programmes from Edinburgh campus here in the UAE. A PhD is a commitment to one subject and it expands the student's academic expertise in that topic as well as employability. By offering these doctoral programmes the University is keen to participate in developing the Nation's research capacity and be actively involved in providing highly skilled and professional individuals to the economy."

PhD programmes are important in the UAE to encourage the research community here especially for students who have limited options and are not willing to move away from family to pursue doctorate degrees. This academic development at Heriot-Watt University is also another step towards strengthening the educational and business ties between Scotland and the UAE.

Mark Hallan, senior director for Europe, Middle East and Africa for Scottish Development International, said: "Scotland has a strong reputation in education and this new venture further highlights the high value that other nations place on Scotland's knowledge, skills and expertise as world leaders in education and academia. Graduates of Heriot-Watt's Dubai campus are already making a contribution to industry in the UAE and by collaborating with Dubai we continue to make it easier for Scottish companies to trade across the region, ultimately benefitting the Scottish economy."

Heriot-Watt University, Dubai Campus started in Dubai International Academic City in 2005 and its new AED200m, state-of-the-art venue was opened in November 2011 by Scotland's first minister, Alex Salmond.

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