How to choose a university if you want a career in healthcare

Sponsored by Almaarefa University

If you’re interested in a career in healthcare, you can start your university search by looking at rankings of the best universities to study healthcare but that will only scratch the surface.

To take the next step in your journey, you’ll need to explore the range of programmes at each university and the employability prospects of each university’s graduates.

To learn more about studying a healthcare degree, we spoke to Dr. Mohammad Alzahrani from Almaarefa University.

How career-focused are the healthcare programmes at Almaarefa University?

Healthcare programmes, including Nursing, Respiratory Care, Anaesthesia Technology, Emergency Medical Services, and Health Information Systems, are typically career-focused and designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in their chosen profession. These programmes often involve a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experiences that prepare students for careers in healthcare.

Nursing programmes, for example, are focused on preparing students for careers as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Respiratory care programmes focus on preparing students for careers as respiratory therapists, with coursework in respiratory physiology, pharmacology, and mechanical ventilation, among other topics.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) programmes are designed to prepare students for careers as emergency medical specialists, including coursework in anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, emergency medical procedures, and medical ethics.

On the other hand, health informatics programmes cover topics such as health informatics, data management, electronic health records (EHRs), and medical billing and coding.

Why is studying a healthcare-related degree important in 2023?

Studying healthcare-related degrees is important in 2023 for several reasons:

• Growing demand for healthcare professionals: The healthcare industry is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by an aging population, and increasing healthcare needs. This growth will lead to a higher demand for healthcare professionals, including nurses, respiratory therapists, anesthesiologists, emergency medical technicians, and health information management professionals.
• Technological advancements: The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving with the emergence of new technologies, such as telemedicine, electronic health records, and medical devices. Professionals with knowledge and skills in these areas will be in high demand as healthcare organisations adopt and integrate these technologies into their operations.
• Greater emphasis on preventative care: There is a growing emphasis on preventative care and wellness in healthcare, which requires a team of skilled professionals who can work together to improve patient outcomes. Professionals in nursing, respiratory care, anesthesiology, emergency medical services, and health information management all play a critical role in delivering effective preventative care.
• Higher salaries: Healthcare professions tend to offer higher salaries compared to other industries, which makes them an attractive career option for many individuals.

What are the facilities like at Almaarefa University for healthcare students?

Almaarefa University, located in Diriyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, provides state-of-the-artfacilities for healthcare students to enhance their learning experience and prepare them for their future careers. Some of the facilities available to healthcare students at Almaarefa include:

• Simulation Center: The Simulation Center at Almaarefa provides students with a realistic learning environment where they can practice clinical skills and decision-making in a safe and controlled setting. This centre includes high-tech simulators and equipment that allow students to practice scenarios that they may encounter in a clinical setting.
• Laboratories: Almaarefa provides students with access to advanced laboratories that enable them to conduct experiments, analyse data, and learn about the latest research in their respective fields.
• Library: The university's library contains a vast collection of healthcare-related resources, including textbooks, journals, and research papers database, allowing students to stay up to date with the latest research and developments in their field of study.
• Clinical facilities: Almaarefa has partnerships with some of the best healthcare institutions in Saudi Arabia, which provide students with opportunities for hands-on clinical experience. This experience enables students to apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting and gain valuable practical skills.
• Technology: Almaarefa's facilities are equipped with the latest technology, including online learning platforms, and advanced medical equipment, providing a modern and innovative learning experience.

How are healthcare students taught at Almaarefa?

At Almaarefa University, healthcare students are taught through a combination of practical and theory-based instruction, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world experience. The university aims to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for the challenges of the healthcare industry.

The teaching approach at Almaarefa is student-centred, including lectures, seminars, group discussions, case studies and practical exercises. The university's faculty is comprised of highly qualified professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their teaching.

At the same time, Almaarefa emphasizes the importance of theory-based instruction, providing students with a strong foundation in the principles and theories that underpin their chosen field. The university encourages students to engage in independent research and critical thinking, and to stay up to date with the latest developments in their field.

What should students look for in a university when looking to study a healthcare degree?

When looking to study a healthcare degree, there are several key factors that students should consider when choosing a university. Here are some things that students should look for:

• Accreditation: The first thing that students should look for is whether the university and the healthcare programme are accredited by the relevant accreditation bodies. Accreditation ensures that the programme meets certain quality standards, and that the degree will be recognised by employers and other institutions.
• Faculty: The faculty is a critical component of any healthcare programme. Students should look for a university that has experienced and qualified faculty members who have practical experience in the field. Faculty members who are actively engaged in research and publications can also bring the latest knowledge and research into the classroom.
• Clinical experience: Clinical experience is a crucial component of any healthcare programme. Students should look for a university that provides opportunities for hands-on clinical experience in reputable healthcare institutions. This experience can help students apply their classroom learning and gain practical skills that will be valuable in their future careers.
• Facilities: State-of-the-art facilities can enhance the learning experience for healthcare students. Students should look for a university that provides access to modern facilities, such as simulation centres, laboratories and libraries.
• Programme offerings: Healthcare is a broad field with many different specialties. Students should look for a university that offers a programme that aligns with their career goals and interests. They should also consider whether the programme offers opportunities for specialisation or further study.
• Career support: A university that offers career support services, such as job placement assistance, networking opportunities, and career counselling, can be very helpful for healthcare students as they prepare to enter the workforce.

What are the career prospects in Saudi Arabia for students looking to work in the healthcare industry?

The healthcare industry in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly, and there are many career opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. There is a growing need for allied health professionals in Saudi Arabia, such as Respiratory Care Specialist, Emergency Medical System Specialist, and Anaesthesia Technology Specialist.

Nurses are in high demand in Saudi Arabia, especially those with specialised skills in areas such as critical care, emergency medicine and oncology.

With the growth of the healthcare industry, there is an increased need for skilled healthcare information system specialists who can manage healthcare facilities and ensure the delivery of quality patient care.

There are also many opportunities for students to pursue careers in healthcare research and academia, either in universities or in research institutions.

Overall, the healthcare industry in Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of career opportunities for students, with competitive salaries and benefits. The government has also implemented various initiatives to encourage the hiring of Saudi nationals in healthcare positions, which may increase job opportunities for students who are Saudi nationals or residents.

What would you say are the main benefits of studying a healthcare degree in Saudi Arabia?

Studying a healthcare degree in Saudi Arabia can offer several benefits for students. Here are some of the main benefits:

• High-quality education: Many universities in Saudi Arabia offer high-quality healthcare education programmes that are accredited by international bodies, ensuring that students receive a top-notch education that meets international standards.
• Affordability: The cost of healthcare education in Saudi Arabia is often lower than in other countries, making it an affordable option for students who want to pursue a healthcare degreewith a variety of scholarship opportunity.
• Multicultural environment: Saudi Arabia is a multicultural country with a diverse population, providing an opportunity for students to learn about different cultures and perspectives, which can be useful in a healthcare career.
• Practical experience: Many healthcare programmes in Saudi Arabia provide practical experience in well-established healthcare institutions, giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop their clinical skills.
• Career opportunities: As mentioned earlier, the healthcare industry in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly, offering numerous career opportunities for graduates in various healthcare fields.
• Cultural immersion: Studying healthcare in Saudi Arabia can provide students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about the traditions and customs of the country.
• Government support: The Saudi government has invested heavily in the healthcare sector, providing financial and technical support to the industry, which may result in more job opportunities for graduates in the future.

Overall, studying a healthcare degree in Saudi Arabia offers students a quality education, practical experience, and numerous career opportunities, all while experiencing a diverse and culturally rich environment.