Middle Eastern Studies

The Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex and diverse societies, histories, cultures, politics, and religions of the Middle East. This programme is designed for students who wish to develop a deep and nuanced knowledge of the region, its historical trajectories, and contemporary developments. The curriculum combines insights from history, politics, anthropology, religious studies, and cultural studies to provide a well-rounded perspective on Middle Eastern affairs. Students will explore key themes such as identity, conflict, development, and globalization, enabling them to critically analyze current events and historical processes. The programme emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, journalism, and cultural institutions. Students benefit from Leiden University’s extensive resources, including access to a rich collection of archives, libraries, and research centres dedicated to Middle Eastern and Islamic studies. The faculty comprises renowned scholars who contribute cutting-edge research and facilitate an engaging learning environment. The programme offers flexibility through elective courses, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether they focus more on political science, history, religion, or culture. Additionally, students have opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and participation in academic conferences, enhancing practical skills and professional networks. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking, regional expertise, and language skills, the Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies prepares students to become knowledgeable analysts, researchers, and policymakers equipped to engage with the complexities of the Middle East in a global context. Graduates will possess the analytical tools necessary to contribute effectively to academia, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or media outlets focused on the Middle East and its global implications.

The Master's programme in Middle Eastern Studies at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the history, cultures, politics, religions, and societies of the Middle East. This interdisciplinary program provides students with the critical skills and knowledge necessary to understand the complex dynamics that shape this historically significant region. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse array of topics, including historical developments, contemporary political issues, socio-economic transformations, religious movements, and cultural expressions within Middle Eastern societies. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, comparative perspectives, and interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of regional affairs and their global implications.

Students have the opportunity to specialize in different subfields, such as history, politics, anthropology, or religious studies, depending on their academic interests and career aspirations. The programme combines theoretical frameworks with empirical data, fostering research skills and encouraging independent investigation. Courses are taught by renowned scholars and practitioners with extensive expertise in Middle Eastern studies, ensuring that students benefit from the latest insights and methodologies. Leiden University's strategic location and strong international networks also provide students with unique opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in conferences or seminars related to Middle Eastern issues.

Throughout the programme, students develop key competencies such as critical reading, research design, academic writing, and verbal communication. The diverse student body enhances the learning environment, offering multiple perspectives and fostering intercultural dialogue. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, journalism, policy analysis, international organizations, or cultural diplomacy, where a sophisticated understanding of the Middle East is essential. With a strong emphasis on both historical context and contemporary challenges, the Leiden University Master's in Middle Eastern Studies prepares students to make meaningful contributions to scholarly research and practical endeavors aimed at understanding and addressing issues related to the Middle East.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl voor meer informatie.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl voor meer informatie.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in a relevant subject (see website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details)

The financing of the Middle Eastern Studies programme at Leiden University is structured to provide students with a variety of options to support their education financially. The university offers several scholarships and funding opportunities aimed at both domestic and international students. These include the Holland Scholarship, which is available to talented students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and provides a one-time award to support living costs. Additionally, Leiden University offers the Programme League of Talents (LOT) Scholarship and the Excellence Scholarship for outstanding students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities.

For students from the Netherlands, the Dutch government offers student grants and loans through the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO), enabling access to need-based financial support to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. International students are encouraged to seek external scholarships from their home countries or international organizations that support study abroad initiatives. The university also provides information on part-time work opportunities, both on-campus and off-campus, which can help students supplement their income during their studies.

Tuition fee payment is typically due before the start of each academic year, and options for payment plans are available to accommodate students’ financial arrangements. The costs associated with the programme include tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, books, and other study materials. International students should also budget for health insurance, which is mandatory for non-EU students studying in the Netherlands.

The university's financial aid office provides personalized guidance regarding scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities, and assists students with application processes. It is recommended that prospective students begin exploring financial options early in their application process to ensure they meet all deadlines and requirements. Overall, Leiden University strives to make education accessible through its comprehensive financial support system, ensuring that talented students can pursue their studies without undue financial hardship.

The MSc in Middle Eastern Studies at Leiden University offers students an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, politics, and society of the Middle East and surrounding regions. This interdisciplinary program combines perspectives from history, political science, cultural studies, and linguistics to provide a comprehensive overview of the complex dynamics within the Middle East. Students engage with the political developments, social transformations, and cultural heritage of countries such as Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, Israel, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and the Gulf States, among others. The program emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary issues, historical contexts, and regional identities, preparing graduates for careers in academia, journalism, diplomatic service, international organizations, or further research.

The curriculum includes courses on Middle Eastern history, politics, religion, and languages, with the opportunity to specialise in specific countries or themes such as conflict resolution, political Islam, or gender studies. Students are encouraged to develop language proficiency in relevant languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, Turkish, or Persian, which enhances their ability to conduct primary research and engage with local sources. The program fosters a comparative approach, encouraging students to compare developments across different countries and regions to better understand the broader patterns and specific peculiarities of the Middle East.

Leiden University’s faculty consists of renowned experts with extensive fieldwork experience and language skills. They provide personalized supervision and mentorship, supporting students in their research projects and dissertations. In addition to coursework, students participate in seminars, workshops, internships, and field trips aimed at linking academic knowledge with real-world contexts. The program also benefits from Leiden University’s strong academic network and partnerships with institutions across the Middle East and beyond.

Graduates of the MSc in Middle Eastern Studies typically pursue careers in academia, policy analysis, international development, journalism, and cultural heritage management. The program’s multidisciplinary nature equips students with analytical skills, regional expertise, and language abilities crucial for engaging with the many challenges and opportunities in Middle Eastern affairs today. Overall, the program aims to produce well-informed, critical, and culturally sensitive experts who can contribute thoughtfully to academic debates, policymaking, or international dialogue concerning one of the world’s most geopolitically significant regions.