Qassim University

What you'll study

The diploma combines theoretical foundations with hands-on practical training to prepare students for entry-level HSE and security roles. Core topics include:

• Fundamentals of occupational health and safety — principles of hazard identification, risk assessment and control hierarchy.
• Industrial safety management — safety systems, permit-to-work, lockout/tagout and safety leadership.
• Fire prevention and protection — fire dynamics, detection, suppression systems and firefighting techniques.
• Emergency response and crisis management — emergency planning, incident command, rescue and evacuation procedures.
• Accident investigation and reporting — root-cause analysis, incident documentation and corrective actions.
• Industrial security — physical security measures, access control, surveillance and security risk assessment.
• Industrial hygiene and environmental protection — monitoring of chemical, biological and physical agents, waste management and pollution control.
• Safety auditing and compliance — inspection techniques, national regulations and international standards relevant to Saudi industry.
• Personal protective equipment and ergonomics — selection, maintenance and workplace ergonomic principles.
• Practical workshops and field training — laboratory exercises, simulation of emergency scenarios and workplace-based internships with local industry partners.

Modules are delivered through lectures, practical sessions, site visits and assessed coursework, emphasising applied skills and workplace readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have a secondary school certificate (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Preference is usually given to graduates from science or technical streams, though applicants from other backgrounds who demonstrate aptitude may be considered. Candidates must meet the university's general admission criteria, which can include a satisfactory score on the national or institutional placement assessment and confirmation of good medical fitness for practical training. Proficiency in Arabic is important for most teaching and workplace communication; basic English is advantageous due to technical resources and international standards referenced in the curriculum.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of operational and supervisory roles in safety and security across industry sectors. Typical job titles include:

• HSE technician or safety officer
• Industrial security supervisor
• Fire safety attendant or inspector
• Emergency response team member
• Safety auditor assistant or compliance coordinator

Employment opportunities exist in manufacturing, construction, utilities, petrochemicals, oil and gas, logistics and government regulatory agencies. The diploma also provides a platform for further study—many graduates progress to bachelor’s degrees in occupational safety and health, industrial engineering or related disciplines, or pursue professional HSE certifications to advance into specialist and managerial roles.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University offers a regionally accessible campus with practical facilities and strong links to local industry. The programme emphasises applied training, with practical workshops, simulated emergency drills and opportunities for internships with employers in the region. Students benefit from experienced faculty with industry backgrounds, a curriculum aligned to workplace needs in Saudi Arabia, and campus support services for academic guidance and career development. The diploma is designed to equip graduates with the skills required by employers seeking competent, safety-conscious technical staff.