UCalgary Qatar concludes operations

After almost 18 years of shaping nursing education in the Middle East, the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) is preparing for its final convocation ceremony on May 11, before concluding operations. 

Since its establishment in 2006, the Doha campus has been a vital contributor to Qatar’s health-care system, graduating more than 1,100 nurses from more than 40 countries, including upwards of 120 Qatari nationals. These alumni are now integral to the nation’s health workforce, holding positions in clinical practice, leadership, research, and education. 

UCQ was founded as the only Canadian university campus in Qatar, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing accredited in Canada, but adapted to local culture and health-care needs. Its presence bolstered Qatar’s capacity for high-quality health care, aligning with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. Planning for the closure of the UCQ began in 2021 as part of a gradual transition process.

Building a foundation of excellence

“The success of UCQ over the past two decades has been driven by our dedicated faculty, who brought both academic rigour and practical expertise to the classroom,” says Dr. Janet Rankin, PhD, interim dean of UCQ. “Our graduates have consistently elevated the standards of health-care practice in Qatar, and we take immense pride in the legacy they have built.” 

The cornerstone of UCQ’s offerings was its rigorous Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program. Preceded by a Nursing Foundations Program designed to ensure students were well-prepared for the demanding BN curriculum, these programs equipped graduates with the essential knowledge and practical skills for success. Alumni have significantly impacted patient care, leadership and health-care management across Qatar. 

In 2013, UCQ expanded its academic reach by launching a Master of Nursing (MN) program to cultivate nursing leaders and educators. Initially partnering with the National Cancer Care and Research Hospital (Al Amal Hospital), the program offered an advanced practice stream in oncology nursing. A year later, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation and Primary Health Care Corporation, a leadership stream was introduced. 

Developing leaders in health care 

With more than 80 graduates, the MN program developed nurses' skills in research, evidence-based practice appraisal and managerial leadership, building capacity for specialized patient-care leadership. Alumni now hold critical roles influencing health-care policy, education and clinical practice in the country. 

“UCQ has contributed significantly to nursing education and the health-care sector in Qatar,” says Prof. Hala Sultan Saif Al Easa, PhD, president and CEO of UCQ. “Our alumni have become leaders in patient care, research and education, and their impact will continue to shape the future of health care in the region.” 

A significant achievement for the campus was becoming the first institution in the Middle East to be designated as a Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO) by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario. This internationally recognized initiative promotes evidence-based practices to enhance patient care. Students at UCQ actively participated in BPSO projects, ensuring their nursing practice was grounded in the latest research and contributing to improved patient outcomes. 

Lasting collaborations and a profound legacy 

Beyond degree programs, UCQ was a leader in Continuing Professional Development (CPD), providing crucial opportunities for nurses and other health-care professionals in Qatar to update their skills and adapt to the evolving demands of the health-care landscape. 

The university fostered strong relationships with key Qatari health-care institutions, including HMC, Sidra Medicine and PHCC, ensuring its programs remained relevant and its graduates well-prepared for the workforce. 

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Khalid Al Thani, PhD, chair of UCQ’s board of trustees, highlighted the campus’s strategic importance. 

“UCQ’s commitment to excellence in nursing education played a vital role in advancing Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in the development of a highly trained and competent health-care workforce,” he says. “We are very proud of the lasting impact that UCQ has made.” 

A proud farewell to a lasting legacy 

The final commencement ceremony will see 120 graduates join the ranks of UCQ alumni. 

As the University of Calgary in Qatar concludes operations, the university extends its gratitude to the State of Qatar, particularly the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, for its sustained support over the years. 

 “As we prepare for our final graduation, we celebrate the partnerships and support that have allowed us to fulfil our mission of delivering world-class nursing education,” Rankin says. 

While its campus presence is coming to an end, the impact of the University of Calgary in Qatar is set to endure through the continued contributions of its highly skilled alumni to the health and well-being of people in Qatar and beyond.