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Heriot-Watt University: Preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market through unique study plans
Every programme is thoughtfully designed to provide students with strong theoretical knowledge, practical skills and essential soft skills
- PUBLISHED: Thu 19 Feb 2026, 10:01 AM
As the first British University to establish a campus in the UAE in 2005, Heriot-Watt University remains a pioneering institution in the region, known for its academic excellence and strong industry alignment. We are committed to delivering practical education that prepares our students for a rapidly evolving job market. In this regard, we are pleased to launch a May 2026 intake designed for fresh graduates, working professionals and university alumni seeking a flexible mid-year start.
The May intake is open for two of our most sought-after programmes:
MSc International Business Management with Marketing
MSc International Business Management with Finance
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Offered by the Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, these programmes enhance business acumen and equip graduates with the skills required to succeed in today’s dynamic business environment. They are both fully accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research through the Commission of Academic Accreditation, ensuring that the curriculum and instruction are of the highest standard.
For the May intake, we offer part-time and full-time study modes that are ideal for working professionals in the UAE and wider region, HWU Alumni and all graduates. This flexible entry point allows you to begin your postgraduate education without waiting until September, and offers the same British degree, curriculum, and academic standards as our regular programme intakes. Our campus at Dubai Knowledge Park is centrally-located with extensive connectivity, helping you advance your career without disrupting your routine
In addition, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of postgraduate degrees in our September intake, including Engineering, Data Analytics, AI, Logistics, Construction, Energy, and Design. Taught by globally recognised faculty, these programmes are designed to support career progression, upskilling and career shifts for Dubai-based professionals.
For students fresh out of high school who are keen to explore their interests and aptitudes in a university setting, we offer dedicated foundation programmes that prepare them for entry into under-graduate degrees in Design, Business, Engineering, and Computing.
Why study at Heriot-Watt University
Comprehensive portfolio of 72+ CAA-accredited undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in the UAE, with all students graduating with a UK degree that is fully recognised in the UAE and internationally.
Exclusive Go Global Programme – the only UAE university offering guaranteed inter-campus study opportunities across our UK and Malaysia campuses for select undergraduate degrees.
Highly diverse student community representing 120+ nationalities, with more than 46 per cent international students and globally recognised academic faculty.
Future-ready academic portfolio covering Renewable Energy, Robotics, Autonomous Vehicles, Data Science, AI, Sustainable Fashion & Textiles, Logistics & Supply Chain Management and Smart Construction.
Five-Star Employability Rating (KHDA) and strong graduate outcomes, with 95% of students in employment or further study within six months.
The Watt Club, established in 1854, is one of the UK’s oldest alumni networks, with 173,000 members across 190 countries.
Every programme is thoughtfully designed to provide students with strong theoretical knowledge, practical skills and essential soft skills, enabling them to thrive in a competitive global job market. Our graduates are confident in their abilities and well prepared to succeed in a wide range of roles.
The university recognises the significant investment students make in their education and is proud to launch the Future Shapers Award. Valued at Dh6,000, this award is open to applicants for the May 2026 intake, with award applications closing on 23 March 2026.
At Edinburgh Business School in Dubai, we are committed to equipping students with the skills and knowledge most sought after by organisations worldwide. Our programmes are delivered by highly qualified, experienced faculty, with a strong focus on applying academic theory to real-world business challenges. Designed for working professionals, our postgraduate programmes are taught in the evenings to offer flexibility. The MSc International Business Management programme offers specialist pathways in Marketing and Finance. Students also benefit from guest lectures, masterclasses, and networking opportunities, ensuring a holistic, industry-relevant, and career-focused learning experience.’
Universities must offer programmes that enable graduates to leave with both strong theory and practical capability. Employers today increasingly report skills gaps and question whether graduates are work ready, especially when it comes to soft skills like communication, resilience and problem-solving. Heriot-Watt addresses this by embedding real-life learning through industry projects, internships, simulations and assignments that mirror everyday business challenges. In a job market where more people than ever hold degrees and competition is fierce, real-world experience and demonstrable skills are what help graduates stand out.
Applications for the May intake are accepted until classes commence on May 4, 2026. Email DubaiEnquiries@hw.ac.uk or call +971 4 571 7000 to book a one-to-one session with an academic or an admissions counsellor.