DEGREE GUIDE
Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies
What do Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies degrees involve?
Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies degrees teach you about the languages, cultures, histories, and politics of the Middle East, a region with deep global significance. You will explore key areas such as Arabic language, Middle Eastern history, literature, religion, and international relations. These courses help you develop linguistic, analytical, and intercultural communication skills while examining themes like colonialism, conflict, migration, and economic development. You will also have the opportunity to study classical and modern Arabic texts, explore contemporary Middle Eastern issues, and understand the region’s role in global affairs. With language immersion, study abroad opportunities, and research projects, you’ll gain valuable expertise for careers in diplomacy, international development, journalism, and cultural consultancy.
Example
Modules
Beginning Arabic: Build your skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, learning basic vocabulary and sentence structures to use in everyday situations.
Studying the Middle East: Explore the region’s rich cultural, religious and linguistic diversity while considering how it is shaped by politics, identity and media narratives.
Introduction to Islam: Learn about the core beliefs, rituals and history of Islam, and examine its role in shaping societies across the Middle East and beyond.
Common Degree Names
💼 Some programmes include placement or internship opportunities related to translation, NGOs, or diplomacy.
🌍 A year abroad in an Arabic-speaking country is a core and essential part of most Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies degrees.
BA (Hons) Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies
BA (Hons) Arabic Studies
BA (Hons) Arabic and Islamic Studies
BA (Hons) Middle Eastern Studies and Politics
Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)
Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies usually offers two pathways: advanced (for students who have studied Arabic) and beginners/ab initio (starting from scratch).
For advanced-level entry:
Arabic – required at A-level or equivalent
For beginners/ab initio pathways:
No prior Arabic required – courses start from scratch
Other Modern Languages – show language-learning aptitude
History, Politics, or Religious Studies – great for regional context
English Literature – useful for close reading and essay writing
✨ If you haven't studied Arabic before, a beginner's pathway is your route in. Many excellent programmes start from scratch.
Some universities also welcome equivalent qualifications, such as:
BTEC Extended Diplomas (often alongside an academic A-level in a language or humanities subject)
T-levels with substantial analytical/written components (check course details)
International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) with a humanities or languages focus
✨ Requirements differ between advanced and beginner pathways. Always check each university’s website for the exact subjects and entry criteria.
Level 2 Qualifications (GCSE / MYP / National 5)
Most courses ask for:
GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or equivalents such as National 5s or MYP
GCSE Arabic (or equivalent) for advanced-level courses; not required for beginners’ routes
📘 Having another language at GCSE or equivalent (or clear evidence of language learning) can strengthen applications to beginners’ pathways.
Is this degree right for you?
Members can explore whether this degree fits who they are:
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Skills you'd develop and whether they match your strengths
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How this aligns with your interests, motivators and values
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Career paths and where graduates end up
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Skills you would develop in an Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies degree
Linguistic & Intercultural Fluency: Gain proficiency in Arabic and deepen your understanding of Middle Eastern cultures and societies.
Communication (Written, Verbal, Digital): Learn to express ideas clearly in Arabic and English, enhancing your cross-cultural communication skills.
Research & Data Analysis: Develop abilities to collect, interpret, and evaluate information about Middle Eastern history, politics, and cultures.
Analytical & Critical Thinking: Critically analyse historical events, cultural practices, and contemporary issues in the Middle East.
Social & Civic Engagement: Understand social, cultural, and political issues, preparing you to engage meaningfully with global communities.
Adaptability & Resilience: Manage the challenges of language learning, cultural differences, and changing geopolitical contexts.
Emotional Intelligence & Empathy: Develop sensitivity and appreciation for diverse perspectives and experiences in Middle Eastern contexts.
Problem-Solving: Address complex cultural, political, and social issues through informed and culturally sensitive approaches.
Is this a good fit for you?
Use the tabs to explore the kind of person that this would be a good fit for. Do you share the Interests, Motivations and Values that people who thrive in this course tend to have? How does it compare to your Holland code?
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Interests that would make an Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies degree a good match for you
Careers an Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies degree could lead you to