Doha: Dean of Virginia Commonwealth University's School of the Arts (VCUarts) in Qatar, a Qatar Foundation partner university, Amir Berbic affirmed that the university will celebrate this year the graduation of 72 students across its academic programs.
According to Qatar News Agency, Berbic mentioned that the university currently enrolls approximately 350 students, a number that has remained consistent in recent years. For the 2024 - 2025 academic year, 97 new students have been admitted, including 91 undergraduates and 6 in the Master of Fine Arts in Design. The previous academic year saw the admission of 101 new students.
Berbic highlighted that 67 students graduated in the 2023 - 2024 class from disciplines such as Graphic Design, Interior Design, Painting + Printmaking, Art History, Fashion Design, and MFA programs.
On the topic of graduate support, Berbic elaborated that VCUarts maintains a strong relationship with its alumni through a dedicated program that aids in their professional development. This involves career advising, job search assistance, and networking facilitated by the university's partnerships with various sectors.
He also mentioned events like the Career Doorway and the annual Makers Market, which provide alumni with platforms to exhibit their work and connect with industry professionals, enabling them to explore entrepreneurial ventures and participate in various exhibitions and collaborative projects.
Discussing partnerships, Berbic stated that VCUarts collaborates with institutions such as Qatar Museums, Qatar Foundation, and the Ministry of Culture to offer internships and employment opportunities. Collaborations also extend to companies like Alfardan Group, the Arab Engineering Bureau, and several design studios.
He emphasized the importance of lifelong learning for students entering creative industries, particularly amidst the rise of AI and digital platforms. He encouraged participation in workshops and training, and the development of business and tech skills.
Berbic underscored the value of a diverse portfolio that reflects a student's unique creative voice, urging them to tailor it for each job application.
In-demand fields for graduates include Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Digital Media, and Animation, driven by the growth of digital platforms and gaming industries. Skills such as branding design and proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite are highly sought after.
He noted the significance of interior and environmental design, emphasizing the importance of mastering tools like AutoCAD and Revit. Game design and interactive media are also experiencing growth, while fields like multimedia storytelling and museum practices are evolving through digital tools like 3D scanning and augmented reality.
Berbic pointed out the role of AI and machine learning in creative processes, as well as the use of 3D printing in product and fashion design. He also discussed the university's contribution to the innovation environment at Education City through events like the Tasmeem Doha conference.
Concluding his remarks to QNA, Berbic expressed confidence in the future of higher education in Qatar, with a focus on innovation and aligning academic programs with Qatar National Vision 2030. He affirmed that the university continues to update its curricula to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.