Modern Middle Eastern Studies

The Master of Studies in Modern Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the contemporary history, politics, cultures, and societies of the Middle East. This prestigious program is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of the region's complex geopolitical landscape, social transformations, and cultural developments. Through rigorous coursework, students gain critical insights into key issues such as regional conflicts, migration, economic challenges, religious interactions, and cultural heritage.

The program provides a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from history, politics, anthropology, sociology, and literature, allowing students to develop a nuanced understanding of the Middle East in its modern context. Students engage with a diverse range of academic texts, case studies, and primary sources, fostering analytical skills and encouraging original research. They have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions with leading scholars and experts in the field, enriching their academic experience.

Throughout their studies, students can tailor their learning to their interests by selecting from a broad array of optional courses covering specific countries, themes, and issues pertinent to Middle Eastern studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, comparative analysis, and the development of research skills necessary for careers in academia, policy analysis, journalism, international development, or diplomatic service.

The University of Oxford's renowned faculty members and extensive library resources support student research and learning. The program often includes opportunities for fieldwork, internships, or collaborations with organizations working within the region, providing practical experience and professional development. Graduates of the program leave with in-depth regional expertise, advanced research capabilities, and a global perspective on Middle Eastern affairs. The MSt in Modern Middle Eastern Studies is ideal for those aiming to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse, policy formulation, or international understanding related to the Middle East.

The MPhil Modern Middle Eastern Studies accepts students who are complete beginners in a Middle Eastern language (Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish). The course also accommodates students in any of these languages at an advanced level. If you already have research-level proficiency in one of these languages you will be required to take a different language.

You are evaluated in five areas: a language, three written examinations on course options (taught through tutorials and lectures) and a 30,000 word thesis.

In the first two terms, you will receive intensive language training to cover the fundamentals of grammar in your chosen Middle Eastern language. This training takes place in classes or language laboratories. You are expected to attend the weekly MPhil seminar, 'The Modern Middle East', held in the first (Michaelmas) term, the seminar is an interactive forum in which you are asked to present arguments and to respond to each other’s work. In addition to this seminar, you will be encouraged to attend lectures and seminars offered by the teaching staff during the first term.

In the second (Hilary) term, in consultation with your supervisor, you will arrange a series of tutorials for one of three options to be offered for the Final Examination. Tutorials typically involve eight weekly meetings and between four and six essays, arranged between you and your tutor. Most options have an associated lecture series which you are expected to attend.

You will sit the Qualifying Exam at the end of the second term. Language training continues in the third term, and you will have tutorials for the second of your three options. You will at this stage begin your thesis preparations, meeting with staff members to identify a thesis supervisor.

During the Long Vacation (end of June to early October), you are urged to pursue intensive language training in an appropriate course in the region, political circumstances permitting. Information on the different courses can be obtained from the relevant language instructors, in consultation with supervisors. You are encouraged to take the opportunity provided by study abroad to conduct research for your thesis in the region.

In the first term of the second year, you will continue language training, and have tutorials for your third option. Over the Christmas vacation research and writing of the thesis should continue. In the second term, you will have further language training and attend an MPhil research seminar where you will present your research findings to your peers and faculty. A complete draft of your thesis should be ready for the supervisor to assess by the end of the second term. By the second week of the final term, you will be ready to submit your thesis. The final examination is held at the end of the final term.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any social science or humanities subject.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement: Up to three pages
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme

The Master of Studies in Modern Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive programme designed for students seeking an in-depth understanding of the contemporary Middle East within historical, political, social, cultural, and economic contexts. This course offers an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on faculties from multiple disciplines to provide a well-rounded perspective on issues affecting the Middle East today. Students will explore topics such as the region's history, politics, religion, society, gender, and linguistics, with an emphasis on critical analysis and research skills. The programme is suitable for those intending to pursue careers in academia, government, non-governmental organizations, journalism, or policy analysis related to the Middle East. The course is typically delivered over one academic year, combining taught modules, seminars, workshops, and a substantial research dissertation. Students benefit from Oxford’s extensive resources, including access to specialized libraries, archives, and expert faculty members renowned in Middle Eastern studies. Admission requirements usually include a good undergraduate degree in a related field, relevant experience, and a demonstrated interest in the Middle East. The programme encourages engagement with current issues and promotes a nuanced understanding of the region's complexities, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Graduates of the programme often go on to influential roles in international organizations, academia, journalism, and diplomatic service, leveraging their expertise in Middle Eastern affairs to contribute to policy-making and scholarly research. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, accommodating students with varied backgrounds while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Overall, the degree aims to produce knowledgeable and skilled professionals equipped to analyze and interpret the ongoing developments and historical contexts of the Middle East with sophistication and depth.