Qassim University

What you'll study

This programme provides a balance of theoretical history and applied heritage studies. You will study periods and themes in national, regional and global history alongside practical subjects that prepare you for work in museums, archives and conservation.

• Core history modules: national and Saudi history, modern and medieval Islamic history, world history, historiography and research methods.
• Heritage and applied modules: heritage management and conservation, museology and exhibition techniques, archive and record keeping, documentation and digital heritage.
• Fieldwork and methods: archaeological field techniques, site survey, preservation practice, laboratory methods for material culture, cataloguing and collections care.
• Complementary studies: cultural policy and law, tourism and cultural industries, oral history, languages and palaeography where relevant.
• Capstone project: an independent research or applied project that typically involves original archival research, fieldwork or a practical conservation/exhibition assignment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school completion certificate recognised by Saudi Arabian higher education authorities (for example the Saudi Thanawiya Amma or equivalent international qualifications). Strong performance in humanities subjects is advantageous. Proficiency in Arabic is essential because much instruction and source material is in Arabic; prior study of history, social studies or related subjects is helpful.

Admission may also involve university entrance processes such as competency tests, interviews or review of a personal statement. International applicants should present an academic credential equivalency and any required language documentation as specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in the cultural and heritage sectors as well as education and research. Typical career paths include:

• Museum and gallery work: curator, collections manager or exhibit developer.
• Heritage and conservation: site manager, conservation technician, or heritage officer with government bodies or cultural foundations.
• Archives and records management: archivist, records specialist or digital archivist for public institutions, universities or private organisations.
• Research and teaching: secondary-school teaching (with further certification), university research assistantships, or postgraduate study in history, archaeology or heritage studies.
• Cultural tourism and community engagement: heritage tourism planner, cultural events coordinator or roles in NGOs and the cultural sector.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University is located in the heart of a region with a rich Najdi cultural heritage, providing strong opportunities for field-based learning and local collaborations. The university’s humanities faculties deliver programmes that combine regional expertise with broader historical and methodological training.

Students benefit from practical facilities and applied training such as heritage documentation labs, museum and archive links, and fieldwork placements with regional cultural authorities. The programme emphasises both academic rigour and vocational skills, supporting graduates who wish to enter professional roles in heritage management, conservation and cultural institutions or continue to postgraduate study.