Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) – a Qatar Foundation partner university – has announced the opening of applications for students interested in joining for the academic year 2025. The deadline for applications is January 15, 2025. Students have the opportunity to apply for four-year undergraduate programs in Graphic Design, Interior Design, Kinetic Imaging, Painting + Printmaking, and Art History. Additionally, those looking to enhance their qualifications or careers can opt for the MFA in Design program offered by VCUarts Qatar.
Prospective students can seek guidance and information from admissions counselors available at VCUarts Qatar on a daily basis. The university’s website provides detailed information regarding application requirements, frequently asked questions, and program specifics. Upon joining VCUarts Qatar, students become part of a global network of over 1000 alumni in various creative roles such as art and design, filmmaking, and more. Alumni have achieved international recognition and received prestigious awards like the Red Dot Award and the International Property Awards.
The creative work of students, alumni, faculty, and staff from VCUarts Qatar has been showcased at prominent exhibitions in cities like Dubai, Paris, Moscow, and Hong Kong, as well as at the university’s home campus in Richmond, Virginia. Furthermore, the campus community actively participated in creative endeavors during the FIFA World Cup tournament in Qatar in December 2022, engaging in fields like film direction, creative direction, set design, and public art.
Students at VCUarts Qatar benefit from participation in world-class art and design events, field trips for study and networking, and engagements with renowned designers and artists. The university frequently hosts talks, lectures, and workshops by internationally acclaimed figures such as Valentino, Shirin Neshat, and Jeff Koons. The state-of-the-art facilities at VCUarts Qatar include a unique Materials Library with a collection of over 10,000 materials, an extensive art and design Library with 40,000 titles, and access to modern studios for digital design and fabrication.
Education at VCUarts Qatar encompasses involvement in prestigious art and design events like Ars Electronica, London Design Week, and Milan Design Week. The university hosts annual exhibitions like the BFA + MFA exhibition, the biennial Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art, and the Tasmeem Doha art and design conference. VCUarts Qatar also maintains an active Alumni Relations section to support graduates in their professional growth and networking opportunities.
In addition to academic programs, VCUarts Qatar offers Community and Continuing education opportunities for the public and alumni to acquire new skills or enhance existing ones. The university ensures that students have access to a wide range of activities and courses within Education City, where VCUarts Qatar is located. With its focus on creativity, innovation, and global engagement, VCUarts Qatar continues to nurture the talents and aspirations of its students, preparing them for successful careers in the creative industries.
