Qeshm Institute of Higher Education (QIHE)

Qeshm Institute of Higher Education is a private, non‑profit institution created to expand tertiary education on Qeshm Island and support the region’s economic development. Established in 2001 and accredited by Iran’s Ministry of Science, it offers applied academic pathways designed to meet local workforce needs in fields such as business, tourism, accounting and technology. Its mission focuses on providing practical training aligned with the island’s commercial priorities.

With a strong regional orientation, the institute emphasizes capacity-building, applied research and skills development to strengthen Qeshm’s labour market. QIHE positions itself as an accessible, career‑driven institution contributing to the island’s sustainable growth rather than functioning as a large national research university.

QIHE’s career ecosystem is tightly connected to the Qeshm Free Zone, giving students direct access to sectors such as tourism, hospitality, banking and commerce. Employers frequently engage with the institute through internships, workshops and practical training, helping students secure roles in local hotels, travel agencies, banks and municipal offices.

The alumni network is regionally centered, with graduates typically entering small-to-medium enterprises operating on the island. Through ongoing collaboration with public organizations and private firms, QIHE maintains an environment focused on immediate employability and supports students through field projects and vocational training linked to Qeshm’s economic priorities.

QIHE is a strong choice for students seeking a career‑oriented education closely linked to Qeshm’s developing industries. Its programs emphasize practical skills, local relevance and immediate employability, especially in tourism, hospitality, business, accounting and applied IT. Students gain direct exposure to island enterprises through internships and field projects.

The institute’s small-scale environment, proximity to real-world field sites and accredited degree pathways provide a practical alternative to large universities. Strengths include specialized master’s programs supporting regional planning, while limitations include primarily Persian instruction and modest research infrastructure for those seeking extensive international academic mobility.

QIHE contributes to Qeshm’s development by delivering applied programs that support the island’s tourism, urban planning and commercial sectors. Its emphasis on professional training and short courses helps upskill the local workforce, meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving free‑zone economy. Graduate projects and faculty expertise often align with ongoing development initiatives.

While the institute does not maintain large research labs or incubators, it demonstrates innovation through regional capacity-building and the integration of digital learning resources. Its long-term impact lies in providing sustained higher education on the island and creating a skilled talent pipeline tailored to Qeshm’s strategic economic goals.

What programs are offered? QIHE provides associate, bachelor’s and master’s programs in fields including business, accounting, computer engineering, tourism, hospitality and urban planning, with specialized graduate pathways in tourism management and urban development.

What is campus life like? Classes are held on Qeshm Island, where students access labs, classrooms and field sites across the geopark and local industries. Campus life emphasizes hands-on learning linked to tourism, planning and commercial activities.

How are internships supported? The institute leverages strong ties with free‑zone organizations and businesses to place students in internships, ensuring practical experience and strong alignment with regional hiring needs.

Admissions follow national regulations for private institutions, with requirements varying by degree level. Undergraduate applicants generally submit high‑school credentials, while graduate candidates provide bachelor’s degrees and any required exam scores. The language of instruction is Persian, and applicants must meet proficiency expectations.

Intakes follow the Iranian academic calendar, and fees vary by program. Students can arrange housing through private rentals near campus. Prospective applicants should verify accreditation, deadlines and required documentation directly with the institute and prepare for the island’s climate and logistical considerations when relocating to Qeshm.