Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad is one of the top-ranking universities in the country as well as the region, offering a variety of academic programs at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels.
It is a public research university located in Islamabad. Established in 1967, it is named after Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, who is also known as Quaid-e-Azam. It is one of the most prestigious universities in Pakistan, known for its academic excellence and research contributions in various fields.
Graana. com gives an overview of Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad, including details about its admission process, history, and more.
Overview of QAU
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) |
| Location | Islamabad, Pakistan |
| Established | 1967 |
| Type | Public |
| Chancellor | President of Pakistan |
| Vice-Chancellor | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah |
| Campus Area | Urban |
| Affiliated Colleges | Quaid-i-Azam School of Management Sciences (QASMS), Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU) |
| Recognitions | Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan |
| Notable Alumni | Dr. Abdul Sattar Edhi (Humanitarian); Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan (Nuclear Physicist); Asma Jahangir (Human Rights Activist) |
| Website | Quaid-e-Azam University |
History of Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad
QAU was established in 1967 as the University of Islamabad, with a focus on teaching and research in advanced fields of natural and social sciences. It was renamed as Quaid-e-Azam University later that year. The university started with only two faculties: the Faculty of Natural Sciences and the Faculty of Social Sciences.
Later, it added two more faculties: the Faculty of Biological Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine. The university also established several institutes, schools and centres to cater to the emerging needs of society and industry.
QAU has a distinguished record of academic excellence and innovation. It has produced many eminent scholars, scientists, leaders, and professionals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. It has also been recognised by various national and international platforms for its quality of education and research.
For example, QAU ranks as the best university in Pakistan, and is also among the top 500 universities in the world, according to QS World University Rankings 2022. It is also a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the International Association of Universities (IAU).
Faculties and Departments of QAU
QAU has 4 faculties and 38 departments, institutes, schools and centres that offer a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines. Here is a brief overview of each faculty and its departments
Natural Sciences
- Department of Chemistry
- Department of Computer Science (ranked 201st worldwide)
- Department of Earth Sciences
- Department of Electronics
- Institute of Information Technology (ranked 201st worldwide)
- Department of Mathematics (ranked 225th worldwide)
- Department of Physics (ranked 225th worldwide)
- Department of Statistics
Social Sciences
- School of Law
- Quaid-e-Azam School of Management Sciences
- Department of Anthropology
- Department of Sociology
- Department of Linguistics
- Department of Defence & Strategic Studies
- School of Economics
- Department of History
- School of Politics and International Relations (SPIR)
- Taxila Institute of Asian Civilisations
- Department of Psychology
- Department of Education
Biological Sciences
- National Centre for Bioinformatics
- Department of Animal Sciences
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Microbiology
- Department of Plant Sciences (ranked 125th worldwide)
- Department of Environmental Sciences
- QAU School of Medicine
- Department of Pharmacy
- Department of Biotechnology
Medical Science
- Quaid-e-Azam Postgraduate Medical College
Institutes
- National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research (NIHCR) Centre for Excellence
- Saulat Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research
- Centre of Excellence in Gender Studies
- National Institute of Psychology
- National Institute of Pakistan Studies
- Area Study Centre for Africa, North and South America
Research and Innovation
QAU is known for its research contributions in various fields. The university has several research centres and institutes that conduct research on a wide range of topics, from natural sciences to social sciences.
Some of the prominent research centres at QAU include the National Centre for Physics, the Centre for Advanced Studies in Physics, and the Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology. The university also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship through its Technology Incubation Centre, which provides support to startups and entrepreneurs.
Ranking of Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad
Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) has been ranked as follows:
Global (Overall)
ARWU World: 701-800
QS World: 363
THE World: 401-500
USNWR Global: 451
Global (Employability)
QS Employability: 19.8
Regional (Overall)
QS Asia: 91
THE Asia: 79
National (Overall)
HEC National: 1
Additionally, in 2010, QAU ranked 46th in QS’s Asian University Rankings for Natural Sciences.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
QAU offers scholarships and financial aid to deserving students based on merit and need. The university has several scholarship programs, including the Prime Minister’s National Laptop Scheme and the HEC Need-Based Scholarship Program. It also provides financial assistance to students through its Student Financial Aid Office.
Admission Process at Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad
To apply for admission to QAU, students must meet the eligibility criteria for the program they wish to apply for. The admission process typically involves an entrance test, followed by an interview for shortlisted candidates.
The university also considers academic performance and other factors, such as extracurricular activities and work experience, when making admission decisions.
Admissions to QAU open twice a year: for the spring semester (January-June) and fall semester (July-December). The admission process varies depending on the level and type of program you are applying for. Here are some general steps to follow:
- Check the eligibility criteria for your desired program on the QAU website or prospectus.
- Fill out the online application form on the admission portal (http://ugadmissions.qau.edu.pk/oas/app/index.aspx) and upload the required documents.
- Pay the application processing fee through a bank challan or online transfer.
- Wait for the shortlisting or merit list announcement on the QAU website or notice board.
- If you are shortlisted or selected, download your admission offer letter.
Notable Alumni at QAU Islamabad
- Abdul Rashid Ghazi
- Aasim Sajjad Akhtar
- Abrar ul Haq
- Hamza Ali Abbasi
- Ahmed Hassan Dani
- Akbar S. Ahmed
- Alamgir Hashmi
- Ansar Pervaiz
- Arshad Sharif
- Asghar Qadir
- Fayyazuddin
- Ismat Beg
- Irshad Hussain
- Hareem Farooq
- Ilhan Niaz
- Khadija Mushtaq
- Maliha Lodhi
- Marriyum Aurangzeb
- Mazhar Mahmood Qurashi
- Muhammad Sharif
- Muhammad Suhail Zubairy
- Muhammad Imran Qadir
- Nasim Zehra
- Nargis Sethi
- Nisar Ali Khan
- Pervaiz Iqbal Cheema
- Pervez Hoodbhoy
- Qaiser Mushtaq
- Qamar-uz-Zaman Chaudhry
- Rana Mubashir
- Zafarullah Khan
- Raziuddin Siddiqui
- Shamshad Akhtar
- Shireen Mazari
- Tahir Amin
- Tasneem M. Shah
- Zia Mian
- Brigadier Anis Ahmed
Conclusion
Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad has a highly qualified faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant student community. It offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
The university also provides scholarships and financial aid to deserving students based on merit and need. Overall, it is a great choice for students who are looking for quality education and research opportunities in Pakistan.
FAQs
Where is QAU located?
QAU is located in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. The university campus is situated at the foothills of the Margalla Hills.
What are the admission requirements for QAU?
The admission requirements vary depending on the program. Generally, applicants must have completed their intermediate education or equivalent with at least 45% marks. They must also have passed a university admission test (NAT or GAT) and met any other specific requirements for their chosen program.
How do I apply for admission to QAU?
Candidates must complete an online application form on the university’s official website. They must also submit all the required documents, including educational transcripts, CNIC/B-form, and admission test results.
What are the programs offered at QAU?
It offers undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs in a wide range of fields, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Some of the popular programs at QAU include computer science, physics, chemistry, economics, and international relations.
What is the tuition fee for QAU?
The tuition fee varies depending on the program and degree level. However, it is relatively low compared to other universities in Pakistan. For example, the annual fee for a bachelor’s program in natural sciences is around PKR 45,000, while the fee for a master’s program in economics is around PKR 30,000 per year.
Does QAU offer scholarships to students?
Yes, it offers a range of scholarships to students based on academic merit and financial need. The university has a dedicated office for financial assistance that helps eligible students with scholarships, grants, and other financial aid programs.
How is campus life at QAU?
The campus life is vibrant and diverse, with many opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies. The university has a beautiful campus with modern facilities, including libraries, sports grounds, and student centres.
What are the facilities available at QAU?
Several facilities are available, including libraries, computer labs, sports facilities, student centres, and accommodation. The university also has a health centre, cafeteria, and transportation services for students.
Does QAU have a hostel for students?
Yes, there are several hostels for both male and female students. Accommodation, meals, and other basic facilities and amenities are provided to students at a reasonable cost.
What is the faculty-to-student ratio at QAU?
There is one faculty member for every 13 students on average, thus ensuring that students receive personalised attention and guidance from their professors.
What is the ranking of QAU in Pakistan and globally?
QAU is one of the top-ranking universities in Pakistan, with a national ranking of 1 by HEC National. Globally, the university is ranked between 701-800 by ARWU World, 363 by QS World, 401-500 by THE World, and 451 by USNWR Global.
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