MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies

Central Campus

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies program at the University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich cultural, historical, political, and religious complexities of the Islamic world and the Middle East. Through interdisciplinary coursework and research, students gain a deep understanding of the diverse societies, languages, cultures, and civilizations that constitute the Islamic and Middle Eastern regions. The program covers a wide range of topics, including Islamic history, theology, literature, politics, economics, and contemporary issues, providing students with the knowledge and analytical skills to critically engage with the region's past and present realities.

  1. Historical Perspectives: Students delve into the historical development of Islam and the Middle East, from the rise of Islam in the 7th century to the contemporary period. They examine key historical events, figures, and movements that have shaped the region's history, including the spread of Islam, the Ottoman Empire, colonialism, and the modern nation-state system.

  2. Cultural and Literary Studies: The program offers in-depth study of Islamic culture, literature, and artistic traditions, exploring themes such as poetry, calligraphy, architecture, and visual arts. Students analyze literary works, artistic expressions, and cultural practices within their historical and social contexts, gaining insights into the diverse cultural heritage of the Islamic and Middle Eastern world.

  3. Political Dynamics and Governance: Students explore the political dynamics and governance structures of the Islamic and Middle Eastern societies, examining issues such as state-building, authoritarianism, democratization, and political Islam. They analyze the role of state institutions, civil society, and religious authorities in shaping political processes and policies in the region.

  4. Religious Studies and Islamic Thought: The program provides a rigorous study of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and intellectual traditions, as well as the diversity of religious practices and beliefs within the Islamic world. Students critically engage with primary religious texts, theological debates, and contemporary interpretations of Islam, gaining a nuanced understanding of Islamic thought and spirituality.

  5. Contemporary Challenges and Global Perspectives: Students address contemporary challenges and global perspectives on the Islamic and Middle Eastern regions, including issues such as conflict, migration, globalization, human rights, and gender. They analyze the impact of global trends and geopolitics on the region, as well as the responses of Islamic and Middle Eastern societies to internal and external pressures.

Pollster Education

Location

Central Campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 7

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 28800

Postgraduate entry requirements:

  1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

  2. English Language Proficiency:  

    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

    • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies program at the University of Edinburgh possess a diverse skill set and deep understanding of the Islamic world and the Middle East, opening up a wide range of career opportunities in academia, government, international organizations, NGOs, media, and more.  

  1. Academic Researcher/Professor: Graduates may pursue careers in academia as researchers, lecturers, or professors, specializing in Islamic and Middle Eastern studies. They may conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and teach courses on topics such as Islamic history, politics, culture, and theology at universities and research institutions worldwide.

  2. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Graduates may work as diplomats or foreign service officers for government agencies, representing their country's interests in diplomatic missions abroad. They may specialize in Middle Eastern affairs, providing political analysis, conducting negotiations, and promoting diplomatic relations between their home country and countries in the region.

  3. Policy Analyst/Consultant: Graduates may work as policy analysts or consultants for governmental and non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and research institutes, focusing on Middle Eastern politics, security, and development issues. They may analyze policy trends, provide strategic advice, and contribute to the formulation of policies aimed at promoting stability and peace in the region.

  4. Humanitarian Aid Worker/NGO Coordinator: Graduates may work for humanitarian organizations and NGOs, providing assistance and support to vulnerable populations in the Middle East affected by conflicts, displacement, and humanitarian crises. They may coordinate relief efforts, manage projects, and advocate for human rights and humanitarian principles in the region.

  5. Journalist/Media Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers in journalism and media, reporting on events, trends, and developments in the Islamic world and the Middle East for international news outlets, think tanks, and research organizations. They may conduct interviews, write articles, and provide expert analysis on political, social, and cultural issues shaping the region.


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