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The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive academic exploration of the Islamic world, focusing on the Middle East's historical, political, and religious dimensions. This program enables students to understand the historical roots of current events and political dynamics while providing insights into the cultural and social frameworks that shape contemporary Middle Eastern societies. It is a unique program that offers both depth and breadth in Middle Eastern studies, providing students with the critical tools needed for analyzing the intricate relationships between religion, politics, and culture in the region.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to cover a broad spectrum of topics essential to understanding the Islamic and Middle Eastern world. Core modules often include Islamic history, the development of Islamic thought, the politics of the Middle East, and the contemporary issues affecting the region. Students will explore themes such as political Islam, the Arab Spring, Islamic law (Sharia), Middle Eastern economic development, and the roles of religion in society. Additionally, students can select from a range of elective courses that focus on areas such as Arabic language, Islamic art and culture, or the specific politics of countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to undertake original research on a topic of their choice, further strengthening their expertise in the field.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh's research in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies is internationally recognized, with a focus on the political, social, cultural, and religious issues that impact the region. Faculty members are involved in cutting-edge research on the history and politics of Islam, the evolution of Islamic ideologies, and the socio-political transformations in the Middle East. Students have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects, participating in seminars and discussions with leading scholars in the field. Research interests within the department often include topics such as political Islam, modern Middle Eastern history, Islamic philosophy, the role of women in the Islamic world, and Middle Eastern geopolitics. The program is intellectually stimulating, offering students access to world-class research resources and expertise.
Industry Engagement: The MSc in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies offers excellent opportunities for industry engagement. The University of Edinburgh’s strategic location and strong ties with international organizations, think tanks, NGOs, and diplomatic services provide students with the chance to gain practical experience through internships and placements. Students can attend guest lectures, seminars, and workshops led by experts in Middle Eastern politics, Islamic law, and international relations. Furthermore, the university's career services support students in finding job placements in sectors such as international development, policy analysis, government services, and journalism. Edinburgh’s global network of alumni, many of whom work in influential positions across international institutions, further enhances the program’s industry relevance.
Global Perspective: With its diverse student body, global faculty, and international partnerships, the MSc in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Edinburgh offers a truly global perspective. The program draws students from around the world, fostering a rich, multicultural academic environment where different viewpoints on the Middle East can be shared and discussed. The university’s collaborations with institutions and researchers from the Middle East and beyond ensure that the program remains relevant and reflective of current global challenges and trends. Furthermore, Edinburgh’s extensive resources and connections with global research networks allow students to engage with real-time political events and debates, making them well-prepared for careers in international diplomacy, policy-making, and cross-cultural communication.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28800
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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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.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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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).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
