The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE), in partnership with Doha University of Science and Technology (UDST), has announced the launch of Qatar's first Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences academic program, alongside a new foundation program designed to expand higher education opportunities for humanities-track students.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday as part of ongoing efforts to align higher education with Qatar's labour market priorities and the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Affairs at MOEHE, Dr. Hareb Mohamed Aljabri, described UDST as a strategic partner in providing high-quality applied education that equips students with practical skills needed in the workforce.
He explained that the new Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences program was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality and other stakeholders to address growing national demand in animal security, public health and food safety.
New pathway for humanities students
The ministry also unveiled a new foundation program that allows humanities-track secondary school graduates to transition into scientific and engineering disciplines after meeting the required English and mathematics standards.
According to Aljabri, humanities-track students account for around 75% of secondary school graduates, and the initiative aims to broaden their academic and career opportunities.
Eligible students enrolled through the government scholarship program will receive a monthly stipend of QR4,000 while pursuing a diploma, increasing to QR6,000 upon progressing to a bachelor's degree. The program also offers a pathway to employment based on participating entities' workforce requirements.
First of its kind in Qatar
UDST Vice President for Student Affairs, Fahad Abdullah Al Hajri, described the Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences program as the first of its kind in Qatar, developed in direct response to labour market needs.
Launching in the Fall 2026 semester, the applied program combines veterinary and health sciences with extensive practical training in veterinary hospitals, laboratories and related institutions.
Students will study subjects including:
- Animal diseases
- Animal nutrition
- Veterinary science
- Laboratory techniques
- Public health and food safety
The program offers flexible study options, allowing students to graduate with a diploma after two years or continue towards a bachelor's degree, with future opportunities to pursue veterinary medicine at eligible universities.
Admissions now open
Admission requires a scientific-track high school certificate with a minimum score of 60%, along with meeting English, mathematics and science requirements. Students who do not yet meet the requirements can enrol in the new foundation program to prepare for university studies.
Admissions are now open for the Fall 2026 intake, with officials encouraging students to explore the new programs as Qatar continues to invest in developing national talent for priority sectors and sustainable economic growth.
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