Qatar University (QU) proudly announces the successful oral defense of the first two theses from the Master of Science in Health Professions Education (HPE) program. The graduates, Abdulla Ahmad AH Yousuf and Dania Ihsan Walid Alkhiyami, have demonstrated exceptional dedication and scholarly achievement in their respective research areas.

Dr. Mashael Al Shafai, Director of Graduate Studies at QU, emphasizes the program's unique approach: “The MSc HPE program stands out for its focus on a multidisciplinary approach to health professions education. This innovative curriculum equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the modern healthcare environment.”

Abdulla Ahmad AH Yousuf, under the guidance of Supervisor Prof. Dr. Derek Stewart, explored ‘Health Professionals Approaches to Breaking Bad News in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.’ His work included a scoping review followed by a qualitative study aimed at enhancing and exploring the experiences of breaking bad news. The committee members, Dr. Ahsan Sethi, Dr. Tanya Kane, and Dr. Abderrezzaq Soltani, provided invaluable support throughout the research process. The external examination was conducted by Prof. Hossam Hamdy, Professor of Surgery/Medical Education and the Chancellor of Gulf Medical University, UAE.

Meanwhile, Dania Ihsan Walid Alkhiyami, under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Abdul Hadi, delved into ‘Perceptions of Pharmacy Students and Clinical Preceptors on Feedback During Experiential Learning.’ Her comprehensive study involved a scoping review followed by qualitative research to explore perspectives on feedback within pharmacy education. Dr. Ahsan Sethi served as a committee member, and the external examination was conducted by Prof. Mirza Raffiullah Baig, Professor of Clinical Pharmacy, Dubai Pharmacy College, Dubai, UAE.

The Health Professions Education program at QU is the first of its kind, providing an innovative and learner-centered curriculum. Dr. Ahsan Sethi, the Founding Program Coordinator, and Associate Professor, expressed pride in the program's evolution from inception to graduation. He remarked, “It is a significant achievement to witness our first graduates successfully defending their theses today. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mashael Al Shafai, Director of Graduate Studies, and Prof. Dr. Feras Alali, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, for their continuous encouragement and guidance throughout this journey. Additionally, I would like to express my gratitude to Prof. Dr. Asmaa Al-Thani, Vice President for Medical and Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, for her unwavering support of the HPE program.”

Each course in the MSc HPE program is meticulously crafted to blend online asynchronous activities with meaningful face-to-face interactions, creating a flexible and interactive learning environment. This blended, flipped classroom model enhances the educational experience and prepares graduates to excel in their respective fields.

For more information about the MSc HPE program at Qatar University, please contact: Dr. Ahsan Sethi, mschpe@qu.edu.qa or visit our website.