Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Launches the "Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies" in Collaboration with SOAS University of London and with the Support of the Museums Commission at the Ministry of Culture.
As part of its commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration in joint programs, and with the aim of preparing a generation of specialists in the preservation and presentation of national heritage, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, in cooperation with SOAS University of London, has launched the Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies. This strategic initiative seeks to advance museum-related knowledge based on rigorous scientific and professional foundations.
The program was inaugurated in the presence of the University’s Vice President for Development and Community Partnership, Prof. Asim Al-Ansari; Dean of the College of Arts, Dr. Mashael Al-Okly; Dean of the Deanship of Graduate Studies, Dr. Saad Al-Saadi; and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at SOAS University, Prof. Jraeme Earl, along with a number of faculty members from both institutions.
Dr. Meshael Al-Okly emphasized that the launch of this program reflects the support of the University President, Prof. Fahad Al-Harbi, and the university’s keenness to develop specialized academic programs and strengthen international collaboration in line with labor market needs and to enhance the capabilities of national cadres in museum work and the cultural sector.
This educational program is the first of its kind in the Kingdom, funded by the Museums Commission, and aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for careers in the museum sector, including roles such as curators, exhibition coordinators, and museum narrative designers. The program contributes to the development of the sector and the promotion of national cultural identity.
Dr. Al-Okly noted that the program is delivered in a blended learning format that combines in-person attendance with remote learning, providing participants with the opportunity to learn from international experts in the field, alongside field visits to leading museums in London.
In this context, Dr. Taghreed Al-Sarraj, Director General of Education and Talent Development at the Museums Commission, visited the university to review the program’s details and meet the participating students. She was received by the Dean of the College of Arts, the college’s vice deans, and the Head of the Department of History and Heritage. Dr. Al-Ukli welcomed the visit and emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Museums Commission in building and developing specialized educational tracks in the museum field. Dr. Al-Sarraj expressed her appreciation to Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University for hosting the program and praised its efforts in supporting and preparing national talents.
This pioneering program comes within the framework of fostering cooperation and enhancing integration between academic and cultural institutions by empowering national competencies to effectively contribute to the development of the museum sector, in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
