The University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) and the Community College of Qatar (CCQ) have signed an agreement to set up a joint education programme named “1+3 collaborative programme.”
The partnership will allow students to gain a foundation year at CCQ before continuing their education at UCQ. The 1+3 programme will begin with students in their first year of study (Phase 1) at CCQ, during which they will complete  classes in anatomy, physiology, bioethics and other elective courses.
These classes have been selected and agreed upon by both institutions and will be awarded full credit at UCQ once students have matriculated. Students will not be required to take the International English Language Test, as the language of instruction of both universities follow English.
Dr Kim Critchley, dean and CEO of UCQ, remarked: “UCQ is pleased to collaborate with CCQ. This joint effort is part of our objective to promote the nursing field and improve access to a world-class education for everyone.”
Acceptance into the second year of the study (“Phase 2”) is based on students’ cumulative GPAs, which are calculated from the 29 credit hours earned while at CCQ, which includes the relevant prerequisites from UCQ. Those students who meet the admissions requirements and receive an acceptance letter will automatically be enrolled as undergraduate students in UCQ’s Bachelor of Nursing Programme.
Prof Ibrahim al-Naimi, CCQ president commented: “This strategic agreement came about as a result of the desire to provide continued value to students, by providing them with additional support once they have finished their first year of education. It was only a natural partnership for the two educational establishments in Qatar.”