US-based Northwestern University will establish a branch campus at Qatar’s Education City following an agreement with Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development.

Northwestern, based in Illinois, will offer undergraduate programs in communication and journalism at the Education City campus starting in fall 2008. The two programs are the first undergraduate degrees offered by Northwestern away from its main campus. Approximately 40 students are expected to enrol in the programs in the first year.

The Education City is on the outskirts of Qatar‘s capital, Doha.

Northwestern will join other top international universities each offering programs selected to meet the needs of Qatar and the GCC region.

Admission requirements to the programs at Education City are the same as at the parent institution, and the degree awarded upon graduation is identical to that earned at the home campus. Each university has purpose-built facilities provided at the Education City site. 

Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism will offer a program in journalism, media and integrated marketing communication, while the university’s School of Communication will offer a program in media industries and technologies. In addition, Northwestern plans to offer a pre-college preparatory program.

“Northwestern’s reputation for excellence made it a prime candidate to deliver journalism and communication programs at Education City,” said Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned, chairperson of Qatar Foundation. “During the negotiations we became convinced that they understood and endorsed our vision for the development of Education City and its contribution to Qatar and the region. Effective media and communication are a vital element of the dynamic, participative society we are promoting.”

“We are excited about the opportunity to join with other great American universities in offering degree programs at Education City,” said Northwestern University president, Henry S  Bienen. “We appreciate the vision and the leadership of the Qatar Foundation in creating this wonderful new venture.” -TradeArabia News Service