MA Modern Languages (Arabic and Persian) and Middle Eastern Sudies
About this course
Arabic and Persian with Middle Eastern studies is a combination that provides both the linguistic keys to the most important cultures of the Middle East and Islamic world and the broader historical, political and cultural framework for understanding the region. Arabic is the language of the Quran, of one of the great classical literary and philosophical traditions, and of hundreds of millions of speakers across more than twenty contemporary nations. Persian carries a classical poetic tradition of remarkable beauty and depth alongside its role as the language of Iran and significant populations in Afghanistan and Central Asia. Middle Eastern studies provides the academic context: the history, politics, religion, society and economics of a region that has shaped world affairs profoundly and continues to do so. At the University of St Andrews you will study across four years of full-time study, including a year abroad that deepens your linguistic fluency in Arabic and/or Persian and your engagement with the cultures and societies they open up. You will develop both languages alongside a thorough grounding in the history, religion, politics and society of the Middle East, building the integrated linguistic and area expertise that is rare, valuable and increasingly sought after in professional and academic contexts. Graduates are exceptionally well placed for careers in the diplomatic service, intelligence and security, international organisations with Middle Eastern remits, journalism, think tanks, NGOs and the private sector roles that require engagement with Arab and Persian-speaking markets. The combination of two of the region's major languages with structured area studies expertise is among the most powerful credentials available for work in Middle Eastern affairs. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in Middle Eastern studies, Islamic studies, Arabic or Persian literature, international security or translation, taking a genuinely rare combination of skills into specialist research and professional careers.
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