Arabic with Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies, MA (Hons)

Arabic is the main language of more than 350 million people inhabiting a huge swathe of land extending from the Atlantic to the Persian Gulf. It is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world and is one of the six official languages of the United Nations. Apart from opening the door to a fascinating and varied region, knowledge of Arabic provides access to the rich intellectual heritage of Islam, and to the history, societies and cultures of the Middle East. This programme is designed to give you a thorough grounding in Arabic, both classical and modern. It enables you to access a wide range of original material, from pre-Islamic poetry and Islamic religious texts, to contemporary sources, Arabic novels, newspapers, and television. Alongside knowledge of written and spoken Arabic, you will also acquire an in-depth understanding of the culture, politics and society of the Arab world, and the wider region of the Middle East, including Turkey and Iran. You do not currently need to know any Arabic, as Year 1 courses are suitable for beginners. By Year 3, you will have the skills to spend the year studying in a country in which Arabic is spoken.Why EdinburghThe School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures at the University of Edinburgh is recognised in the UK and internationally as a leading institution for research and study of Arabic, Islam, and the Middle East. Our programme is extremely flexible. In Years 1 and 2 you will choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines, and specialise as you progress through your honours years.Your year abroad will provide complete immersion in Arabic language and culture.When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.