Asian and Middle Eastern Studies — Hebrew Studies at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the language, history, culture, and society of Hebrew-speaking communities across history and in contemporary contexts. This interdisciplinary program combines language acquisition with cultural, historical, and political studies, providing students with a holistic understanding of the Jewish world and its multifaceted aspects. Students will develop advanced proficiency in Hebrew through rigorous language training, enabling effective reading, writing, and communication skills. Alongside language studies, the course covers the historical development of the Hebrew language, its role in religious texts, and its evolution in modern times, including its revival as a living language in Israel.

The curriculum includes modules on ancient, medieval, and modern Hebrew literature, religious texts, and modern Hebrew culture. Students will also examine the social, political, and cultural dynamics of Jewish communities both within the Middle East and globally, engaging with topics such as Zionism, Israeli society, diaspora communities, and interfaith relations. The program aims to foster critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of historical documents, contemporary debates, and cultural artifacts.

Students will benefit from access to outstanding academic staff, many of whom are leading experts in their fields, and resources such as exclusive archives and libraries. Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, and language immersion activities, including study abroad options in Israeli universities or other relevant institutions. The program prepares graduates for careers in education, research, public service, diplomacy, journalism, or further academic study. By engaging with a rich and diverse set of disciplines, students will gain valuable insights into the history and culture of Hebrew-speaking peoples, equipping them with transferable skills in analysis, communication, and intercultural understanding.

During the year, MPhil students attend various training courses offered by the Department in codicology, text reading, and other skills. They are also encouraged to attend fourth year undergraduate lectures and language courses where relevant. They also attend graduate work-in-progress seminars where they have an opportunity to present their own work to their peers for feedback in a supportive environment.

Option 1 will introduce them to the analytical tools required for studying Hebrew primary sources and to the Genizah manuscripts, and will help them develop their Medieval Hebrew or Judaeo-Arabic.

Option 2 will introduce them to the history of Modern Hebrew literature and culture, Israeli literature, cinema or cultural production, and explore the major genres in modern Hebrew culture (literary, cinematic, aesthetic aspects).

Feedback

Students taking the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew Studies), i.e. working on essays or examinations and a 15,000 word dissertation to be submitted in mid-August, will receive feedback on their work after the June Degree Committee meeting (for essays and examinations) and after the final Degree Committee meeting of the year in September (for MPhil dissertation results and overall Degree results). Students will receive feedback routinely throughout the year from their Supervisors. Supervisors also produce feedback via termly CGSRS reports on CamSIS.

Assessment

Thesis

For the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew Studies), students will submit a thesis of not more than 15,000 words, including footnotes and appendices but excluding bibliography on a subject approved by the Degree Committee. All MPhil dissertations must include a brief Abstract at the start of the dissertation of no more than 400 words.

Essays

For the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew Studies), students may submit essays as part of their degree:

With the approval of the Degree Committee, a candidate may offer, in place of one or more of the examination papers, the same number of essays, each of not more than 5,000 words, including footnotes, but excluding bibliography, or equivalent Alternative Exercises approved by the Degree Committee.

Written examination

For the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew Studies), students may take examinations as part of their degree:

Three written examination papers on subjects approved by the Degree Committee. With the approval of the Degree Committee, a candidate may offer, in place of one or more of those papers, the same number of essays, each of not more than 5,000 words, including footnotes, but excluding bibliography, or equivalent Alternative Exercises approved by the Degree Committee.

Practical assessment

There is no practical assessment associated with this course.

Other

An oral examination on the thesis and on the general field of knowledge within which it falls, but at the Degree Committee’s discretion the requirement for an oral examination may be waived.

• 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
• Research Proposal 
• Attainments in languages. Good reading knowledge of Classical Arabic will be expected.Applicants are required to list the languages they know and their level of competence.
• Sample of Work
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Applicants who wish to be considered for the Gates Cambridge (USA) and Gates Cambridge (International) must include a personal reference with their GRADSAF and other supporting documentation.

The Financing of the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies — Hebrew Studies program at the University of Cambridge benefits from a range of funding options available to both domestic and international students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid opportunities provided by the university and external organizations. Cambridge offers numerous scholarships specifically for students pursuing language and regional studies, including those focused on Middle Eastern and Hebrew language programs. The reliance on government-sponsored loans and grants is also common, particularly for UK and EU students, who may be eligible for funding through UK student finance. International students might consider external funding bodies, such as the Fulbright Program, Chevening Scholarships, or other region-specific scholarships aimed at supporting Middle Eastern studies.

The university has a dedicated financial aid office that provides detailed information and assistance to students seeking funding options. Students can apply for postgraduate scholarships if enrolled at the master's level or for undergraduate bursaries if pursuing an undergraduate degree. Additionally, Cambridge's College-based funding schemes are an important source of financial support, often offering bursaries or fee reductions depending on the student's financial need and academic merit.

It is also possible for students to seek external employment during their studies to help cover living expenses, although the program itself does not provide specific stipends or paid teaching assistant positions. The university promotes flexible funding arrangements to accommodate a diverse student body, and a range of grants are available for research projects, fieldwork, and language learning resources. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s residency status, with overseas students typically paying higher fees. Financial aid packages are assessed individually, taking into account the student’s financial background and academic record.

Overall, students should carefully review the university’s official financing guidance, start scholarship applications early, and seek advice from the university’s financial aid officers to maximize their funding opportunities. While the program itself does not include guaranteed funding, a combination of scholarships, bursaries, external funding, and personal funding strategies can help support students through their academic journey in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies — Hebrew Studies at the University of Cambridge.

The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies — Hebrew Studies program at the University of Cambridge offers students a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the languages, history, culture, and societies of Hebrew-speaking populations and the broader Middle Eastern region. This program is designed to deepen understanding of the historical and contemporary issues faced by these communities, emphasizing linguistic proficiency alongside cultural and historical knowledge.

Students engaged in Hebrew Studies typically begin with foundational language courses aimed at developing advanced reading, writing, and conversational skills in Hebrew. These language modules are supplemented by lectures and seminars addressing topics such as biblical studies, Jewish history, Middle Eastern politics, literature, and religion. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore archaeological findings, literary texts, religious traditions, and socio-political developments within the region.

The academic structure at Cambridge emphasizes rigorous research and critical analysis. Students have opportunities to engage in original research projects, often utilizing the university’s extensive library resources and special collections related to Middle Eastern history and Hebrew manuscripts. The program also provides practical experience through seminars, workshops, and sometimes language immersion trips, which enhance linguistic competency and cultural understanding.

Graduates of the Hebrew Studies program at Cambridge are well-equipped for careers in academia, diplomacy, cultural preservation, journalism, and international relations. They benefit from a strong foundation in language skills combined with a nuanced appreciation of the historical and modern issues affecting Hebrew-speaking communities in Israel, Palestine, and the broader Middle East.

Throughout their studies, students gain exposure to the diverse perspectives and complex histories of the region, fostering a nuanced worldview and critical thinking skills. The faculty includes renowned experts in Middle Eastern history, biblical studies, and contemporary Middle Eastern politics, providing students with mentorship and guidance tailored to their academic interests.

Overall, the program combines linguistic mastery with scholarly inquiry, preparing students for advanced study or professional careers that require a deep understanding of Hebrew language and Middle Eastern affairs within an international context. The University of Cambridge’s reputation, extensive resources, and academic excellence ensure that students receive a rigorous and enriching educational experience in Hebrew Studies.

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