University of Cambridge campus

Arts & Humanities

Master of Philosophy in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (Middle Eastern Studies) at University of Cambridge

University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

Programme overview

Graduates of the MPhil by Research will be able to work independently to design research projects and will have an in-depth knowledge of the primary sources and secondary literature in their chosen specialism. They will be very well placed to study for a PhD and will also be able to use their skills and knowledge in other professions and activities where advanced research skills and independent critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills are needed. A good working knowledge of one or more Middle Eastern languages – usually Arabic, Hebrew, or Persian – is expected to be appropriate for the research work.

Faculty: School of Arts and Humanities  |  Department: Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies  |  Duration: 12 months full-time; 2 years part-time  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: October 2027  |  Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students also develop their ability to read, interpret and translate primary sources, acquire a good knowledge of current scholarship on modern and/or pre-modern Middle Eastern culture(s), and acquire an in-depth knowledge of the secondary literature relevant to the subject of their thesis. Testimonials Teaching Students are expected to work closely with their supervisor throughout the year on a thesis of not more than 25,000 words, which must be submitted in August.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree. High II.i or a first at BA level from a UK university or equivalent. Good working knowledge of the Middle Eastern language or languages relevant to the research work for the thesis (usually at least equivalent to two years full-time study of the language). The primary aim of the course is to prepare postgraduate students for independent academic research. English language: IELTS (Academic) 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each element.

Domestic applicants: GBP 17,588 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

International applicants: GBP 41,332 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 12 months full-time; 2 years part-time

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