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The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Late Antique, Islamic and Byzantine Studies
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine Studies is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to explore these three significant historical periods in detail. The program offers an understanding of the political, cultural, and religious transformations that took place in the late antiquity, the rise of the Islamic world, and the Byzantine Empire. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, students will gain a deep understanding of the historical narratives, archaeological evidence, and primary sources from these periods. The program is structured to provide students with the critical thinking skills required to analyze complex historical and cultural phenomena and engage with scholarly debates in these fields. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in academia, heritage management, museums, and cultural preservation, or roles in international organizations that focus on historical and cultural studies.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine Studies at the University of Edinburgh is carefully designed to offer a comprehensive view of these historical periods while allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest. Core modules include “The Mediterranean World in Late Antiquity,” “Byzantine History and Culture,” and “Islamic History and Civilization,” which provide a deep dive into each of the three main areas of study. Students will also take courses that focus on the sources and methodologies used in the study of these periods, such as “Archaeology of Late Antiquity” and “Texts and Manuscripts in Islamic and Byzantine Cultures.” The program offers flexibility through elective modules, enabling students to specialize in areas like religious history, art, architecture, and the material culture of the late antique and medieval worlds. The program concludes with a dissertation, where students conduct independent research on a topic related to their area of interest, contributing to ongoing scholarly debates in these fields.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh is a leading center for research in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine studies. Faculty members are internationally recognized for their research in these areas, with expertise in topics ranging from the political and social history of the Byzantine Empire to Islamic intellectual history and the archaeology of Late Antiquity. Research at the university focuses on exploring the cultural, religious, and political transformations that took place during these periods, as well as the material and textual sources that provide insights into these civilizations. The program encourages students to engage with the latest research in the field and to contribute their own perspectives through independent projects. Students have access to a wide range of resources, including the university’s world-class library collections, archives, and databases, which support research in these fields. Through seminars and workshops, students have the opportunity to discuss their research with leading scholars and to engage with the academic community.
Industry Engagement: The MSc in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine Studies at the University of Edinburgh provides students with valuable industry engagement opportunities that enhance their learning and professional development. The program includes opportunities for students to work closely with museums, heritage organizations, and archaeological projects, both locally and internationally. The university has strong links with institutions such as the National Museum of Scotland, the British Museum, and the British School at Athens, offering students internships, placements, and research collaboration opportunities. Additionally, the program hosts guest lectures, workshops, and events featuring experts in the fields of archaeology, museum curation, and heritage management. These industry connections provide students with insights into the practical applications of their studies, enabling them to develop professional skills that will be valuable in their careers.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine Studies at the University of Edinburgh offers a global perspective, encouraging students to consider the interconnectedness of these regions and their influence on world history. The program covers a range of geographical areas, including the Mediterranean, the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and historical interactions that shaped these regions. The university’s global network of researchers and collaborators ensures that students are exposed to a wide range of perspectives and research methodologies, enriching their academic experience. Students are encouraged to engage with global issues such as the legacy of the Byzantine Empire, the spread of Islam, and the transformation of the Mediterranean world, equipping them with a deep understanding of how these historical periods continue to shape contemporary global issues. The diverse student body and international academic collaborations provide students with a truly global learning experience.
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.
The MSc in Late Antique, Islamic and Byzantine Studies at The University of Edinburgh equips graduates with a deep understanding of historical, cultural, and intellectual developments from the late antique period through the Islamic and Byzantine eras. This rigorous academic training opens up a diverse range of career opportunities. Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, cultural heritage management, museums, diplomacy, and various other fields.
Academic and Research Careers: Graduates are well-prepared for academic careers, including pursuing PhD studies and becoming university lecturers or professors. The program’s strong emphasis on research and critical analysis equips students with the skills necessary to contribute original research to the fields of late antique, Islamic, and Byzantine studies. Academic roles often involve teaching, publishing scholarly articles, and participating in academic conferences.
Museum and Cultural Heritage Management: The program’s focus on historical and cultural studies makes graduates ideal candidates for roles in museums and cultural heritage organizations. They can work as curators, collections managers, or exhibition coordinators, responsible for the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of historical artifacts. Their specialized knowledge of late antique, Islamic, and Byzantine cultures is particularly valuable in institutions focusing on these periods.
Archaeology and Field Research: Graduates with an interest in archaeology can pursue careers as archaeologists, participating in or leading excavations and field research projects. They may work for archaeological firms, governmental agencies, or academic institutions. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, which includes archaeology, provides the practical and theoretical knowledge needed for successful careers in this field.
Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations: The comprehensive understanding of different cultures and historical contexts gained through this MSc program is highly valuable in the field of cultural diplomacy and international relations. Graduates can work for governmental or non-governmental organizations, contributing to cultural exchange programs, international cooperation initiatives, and policy development. Their ability to navigate and appreciate diverse cultural landscapes enhances their effectiveness in these roles.
Publishing and Journalism: Graduates can also pursue careers in publishing and journalism, particularly in roles that require specialized knowledge of history and culture. They might work as editors, writers, or researchers for academic publishers, magazines, or media outlets focusing on historical, cultural, or international topics. Their analytical skills and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are essential in these professions.
Education and Public History: Graduates can work in education beyond academia, such as in secondary education or adult education programs. They can also engage in public history projects, which involve making historical research accessible to a broader audience through public lectures, educational programs, and media productions. Their expertise in late antique, Islamic, and Byzantine studies enables them to educate and engage the public in meaningful ways.
