Social Work Education in Qatar: Status and Future Prospects

Abstract

The Social Work Program in Qatar University is one of three programs, together with the Sociology and Psychology programs, in the Department of Social Sciences, which is part of the College of Arts and Sciences. Due to the lack of evidence on the current program efficiency, quality, and the criteria of reflecting the needs of Qatari society, this study aims to present the current status of the Social Work Program with reference to meeting the needs of Qatari society and future prospects. Structured individual interviews and focus group discussions are employed to address the research problem. The learning outcomes and the syllabi of the courses are qualified to meet the requirements of the Social Work Program in Qatar University; however, the need for improved research courses and topics are highlighted, which will promote students’ engagement in research activities to address the needs of Qatari society. The results indicated that improvement in the program’s physical environment (i.e., classrooms, offices) would help facilitate the quality of the courses and communication among students and faculty members. The findings of this study will inform the social work program future enhancement plan, and will improve on its local presence and in achieving international accreditation.