The MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies of Asia and the Middle East. This highly regarded program is designed for students who seek to deepen their understanding of the complex political, social, and cultural developments across these regions, combining rigorous academic training with opportunities for original research. Participants will engage with a wide range of topics including history, politics, religion, literature, and linguistics, fostering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Asian and Middle Eastern societies today. The course curriculum includes core modules that emphasize critical thinking, research methodology, and area-specific knowledge, alongside options tailored to individual interests and research aims. Students benefit from the expertise of leading scholars and researchers who are at the forefront of their fields, and have access to extensive resources including specialized libraries and archives. Additionally, the program encourages the development of language skills in relevant regional languages, which are essential for in-depth research and cultural understanding. The two-year course culminates in a thesis that makes a significant contribution to scholarly discourse. Graduates of the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies are well-equipped for careers in academia, policy analysis, international relations, journalism, and cultural institutions. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, combined with Cambridge’s rich academic environment and global network, provides students with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to contribute meaningfully to their fields and to broader societal understanding of Asia and the Middle East.

Feedback

The course consists of individual supervisions and guided research. Students are given guidance in areas specific to their subject area and in advanced research methods. Supervision is a very individual teaching method, students are therefore encouraged to contact their supervisors and discuss how regularly they will meet; how contact will be maintained; whether the supervisor or student should initiate contacts; what kinds of work should be submitted and when.

Assessment

Thesis

The PhD thesis must not exceed 80,000 words exclusive of footnotes, appendices and bibliography subject to an overall word limit of 100,000 words exclusive of bibliography. An oral examination (viva voce) is required.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Sample of Work 
• Research Proposal. All applicants must submit a separate research proposal with their PhD application.
• Attainments in languages. Degree-level knowledge of the subject (language) the applicant intends to study is required.Applicants are required to list the languages they know and their level of competence.
• Personal Reference

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financing for the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies program at the University of Cambridge is primarily sourced through a combination of university scholarships, government grants, external bursaries, and financial aid options. The university offers various scholarships specifically designed to support students pursuing this course, including the Cambridge Trust Scholarships, which are available to both UK and international students based on academic excellence and financial need. These scholarships often cover partial or full tuition fees and may include maintenance stipends to assist with living costs.

In addition, students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities such as Commonwealth Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, and other country-specific awards that support students studying in the UK. The university's College-based financial aid schemes also offer support, with many colleges providing bursaries and grants to students in need, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying at Cambridge.

For international students, the costs associated with the program are higher, encompassing tuition fees, health surcharges, accommodation, and daily expenses. To offset these costs, students may utilize private funding, part-time work opportunities permitted by visa regulations, or loans. The university also provides guidance and support in applying for financial aid and scholarships, helping students to identify suitable funding sources to finance their studies.

Overall, the financing landscape at Cambridge for Asian and Middle Eastern Studies combines robust institutional funding sources with external scholarships and personal financial planning. Prospective students should consult the official university websites and the respective colleges for the most current information on available financial support and application procedures.

Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration of the history, culture, languages, and societies of Asian and Middle Eastern regions. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse cultures and histories across this vast geographical area, which includes countries such as China, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Korea, Pakistan, Turkey, and many others. Students have the opportunity to study a range of subjects, including classical and modern languages, literature, history, politics, and religion, which together facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to the field.

Typically, the program combines language acquisition with area studies, allowing students to develop proficiency in languages such as Chinese, Arabic, Hindi, Persian, Japanese, or Turkish, depending on their chosen focus. Alongside language studies, students explore historical developments, political structures, and cultural practices through a variety of modules, seminars, and fieldwork opportunities. The University emphasizes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for careers in academia, diplomacy, international organizations, journalism, or other fields requiring regional expertise.

The program is well-supported by the university’s extensive resources, including special collections, archives, and partnerships with cultural institutions. Students benefit from expert faculty members with research interests across history, politics, language, and culture, many of whom are leading figures in their fields. Degree options include BA (Hons) and MPhil, with the possibility to undertake research projects, dissertations, or language proficiency assessments.

Students are encouraged to engage in study abroad programs, internships, or language immersion experiences to enhance their understanding of the regions studied. The program’s structure fosters critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and linguistic competence, making graduates highly sought after in international sectors. The university’s vibrant academic community also allows students to participate in conferences, workshops, and extracurricular activities related to Asian and Middle Eastern topics.

Overall, the Cambridge Asian and Middle Eastern Studies program is dedicated to cultivating experts who can contribute valuable insights into the complex histories, cultures, and contemporary issues facing these regions today. Through rigorous scholarship and experiential learning, students are prepared to become informed global citizens with a nuanced perspective on Asia and the Middle East.