An overview of Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Posted by : Aleena Khan

Author Designation : Career Counselor (Delhi)

An overview of Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Established in 2005, Heriot-Watt University Dubai was among the first overseas university campuses in Dubai International Academic City. Invited by the UAE government, the university aimed to offer specialized programs in management, engineering, built environment, food science, and fashion. By 2010, the campus reached its initial capacity of 2,000 students, leading to the construction of a purpose-built facility, which opened in 2011, increasing capacity to 4,500 students. In 2021, the campus relocated to Dubai Knowledge Park, and by 2023, it served nearly 5,000 students from 115 nationalities.

Rankings and Recognition

Heriot-Watt University has garnered significant accolades:

• QS World University Rankings 2025: Ranked 256 globally.
• Times Higher Education Rankings: Joint 45th in the UK and joint 7th in Scotland; 41st globally for International Outlook.
• Forbes Middle East Higher Education Awards 2019: Dubai campus awarded 'Best University'.

Academic Programs and Tuition Fees

Undergraduate Programs:

The Dubai campus offers a range of undergraduate programs in fields such as: Accounting and Finance

• Marketing
• Human Resource Management
• Strategy and Enterprise

Postgraduate Programs:

Postgraduate offerings include:

• MBA
• MSc in Civil Engineering & Construction Management
• MSc in Data Science

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: AED 60,000 to AED 70,000 per year.
• Postgraduate: Approximately AED 60,000 to AED 70,000 per year.

Intakes

Heriot-Watt University Dubai operates a rolling admissions process with multiple intakes:

• September: Main intake for most programs.
• January: Additional intake for selected programs. Applicants are encouraged to apply 6–10 months before their intended start date to ensure a smooth admission process.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admissions:

• Minimum 70% in high school diploma.
• SAT, I score of 1000 (500 English + 500 Mathematics) or ACT score of 20.

Postgraduate Admissions:

• Bachelor's degree from a recognized institution.
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
• Relevant work experience for certain programs.

Scholarships and Eligibility

Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers various scholarships:

• Undergraduate Merit Scholarship: AED 7,000 annually for students with 80-90% academic achievement.
• MBA Scholarships: Available for applicants with a minimum of 5 years of full-time professional experience.

• ICE Member Scholarships: 20% tuition fee discount for immediate family members of ICE members enrolling in specific engineering programs.

Notable Alumni

Heriot-Watt University boasts a diverse alumni network, including:

• Kygo: International DJ and music producer.
• Nivetha Pethuraj: Indian actress in Tamil and Telugu cinema.
• Chris Whitty: Chief Medical Officer for England.

Placement Report (Last 3 Years)

Heriot-Watt University emphasizes career readiness:

• Employment Rate: 95% of students employed within three months post-graduation.
• On-Campus Employer Events: 171 events facilitating student-employer interactions. The university's Careers and Graduate Futures Service assists students in making informed career choices.

Conclusion

Heriot-Watt University Dubai stands as a beacon of quality education in the UAE, offering a blend of academic excellence, diverse programs, and strong industry connections. Its commitment to student success is evident in its robust support services, scholarship opportunities, and impressive graduate employability rates.

FAQs

Q1: What are the English language requirements for admission?

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Specific score requirements may vary by program.

Q2: Are there accommodation facilities available for students?

Yes, Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers student accommodation options with various amenities to ensure a comfortable living environment.

Q3: Can international students apply for scholarships?

Absolutely. International students are eligible for various scholarships, including merit-based and program-specific scholarships, subject to meeting the specified criteria.

Q4: What support services are available for career development?

The university provides comprehensive career services, including counselling, internship placements, and job search assistance to enhance students' employability.

Q5: How can I apply for admission to Heriot-Watt University Dubai?

Prospective students can apply online through the university's official website, submitting the required documents and fulfilling the admission criteria for their chosen program.

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