Record admissions ‘underscore HBKU role as hub for excellence’

As Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) embarks on the 2025-2026 academic year, we celebrate the admission of our largest cohort since the university’s establishment.
This year, HBKU has welcomed a record number of Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students, reflecting the institution’s growing global appeal and commitment to fostering transformative education.
This year’s cohort of students from around the world highlights HBKU’s role as a hub for excellence in interdisciplinarity, where global scholarly impact meets local societal impact.
One of the most exciting aspects of this admission cycle is the introduction of several innovative academic programmes designed to address pressing global challenges.
Among them is the Master of Global Health Policy, a two-year professional degree that equips students with expertise in international health policy, economics, and the integration of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Equally innovative is the Master of Science in Biopsychology and Neuroscience, which focuses on the biological foundations of neurological and psychiatric conditions, preparing graduates to advance mental health research and therapies.
The Master of Arts in Translation for the Creative Industries stands out by training translators and cultural mediators for dynamic markets in media, entertainment, and digital content creation.
Rounding out these additions is the Master of Science in Economics, focusing on data-driven decision-making in an era of big data and sustainability-conscious decision-making.
These programmes not only expand HBKU’s portfolio but also attract a cohort eager to tackle issues in impactful areas like public policy, economics, sustainability, and personalised medicine through cutting-edge research and curricula.
At HBKU, we take pride in our unique academic and student support services, which go beyond the curriculum. Our students benefit from personalised mentoring, state-of-the-art research facilities, and holistic wellness programs that ensure their success.
Central to this is the HBKU mindset that instils depth in knowledge and research alongside breadth in professional attributes. Graduates emerge proficient in communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, empathy, and leadership. This multifaceted approach empowers them to navigate complexities with confidence.
A key strength of HBKU lies in its location within Education City, offering unparalleled access to courses and resources from partner institutions. This ecosystem provides students with flexible pathways, granting them greater agency over their educational journeys. Whether through cross-enrolment opportunities, joint research projects, research mentoring, or collaborative events, learners can tailor their experiences to align with personal and professional goals.
Interdisciplinarity is woven into the fabric of all HBKU’s academic programmes. By blending fields like AI, sustainability, personalised medicine, social progress, and progressive education, we prepare graduates for an increasingly complex world in which jobs of the future remain unimagined.
Our emphasis on these core areas ensures that students are not just knowledgeable but adaptable, ready to drive innovation in uncertain landscapes.
Reflecting on this landmark cohort, I’m inspired by the potential it holds. These students embody HBKU’s mission to cultivate global leaders who will address humanity’s greatest challenges. As they begin their journeys, we remain committed to supporting their growth, fostering a community where curiosity thrives and impact is inevitable. To our latest cohort of students, welcome to HBKU where the future is shaped.