A degree in Middle Eastern Studies offers a huge array of choices, leading to a rich and varied time at Cambridge. However, the number of options available and the flexibility with which courses can be combined, can seem bewildering.
Here is a simple of explanation the different combinations that might go to make up your degree.
In each case:
- You will learn to read, write and understand both Modern and Biblical Hebrew from scratch
- If you are combining with another Middle Eastern language, you will also learn that language from scratch
For details about individual courses, please see the full listing or contact the Undergraduate Administrator:
Email address: ug_progadmin@ames.cam.ac.uk
Hebrew and a European Language
- You will study Hebrew alongside a language offered by the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages & Linguistics (MMLL)
- You are expected to know your MMLL choice to at least A level standard
- You will have the choice of a variety of courses relating to Middle Eastern culture and history, as well as certain courses offered by MMLL
- You will spend your year abroad in Israel
Hebrew and Arabic
- You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the two predominant Middle Eastern languages, their literature and cultures, and a well rounded understanding of Israel and the Arab world
- You will study Hebrew alongside courses in Standard Arabic for reading and writing and Egyptian Arabic for speaking
- You will have the choice of a variety of courses relating to Hebrew and / or Arabic literature and culture, as well as broader Middle Eastern culture and history
- These courses may be offered in the Faculty or may be borrowed from other Faculties
- You will divide your year abroad between Israel and an Arabic speaking county
Hebrew and Persian
- You will study Hebrew and Persian, both from scratch
- You will have the choice of a variety of courses relating to Hebrew and / or Persian literature and culture, as well as broader Middle Eastern culture and history
- These courses may be offered in the Faculty or may be borrowed from other Faculties
- You will divide your year abroad between Israel and Iran
Full Hebrew
- Although we encourage students to study Hebrew with another language, either offered by MMLL or another Middle Eastern language, it is possible to specialise in Hebrew only
- You will immerse yourself in Hebrew, specialising in Hebrew language and literature and the history and culture of the Middle East
- You will follow all the courses relating to reading, writing, speaking and understanding Modern and Biblical Hebrew
- You will have the choice of a variety of courses relating to Hebrew literature and culture, as well as broader Middle Eastern culture and history
- Because you will have no other language options, you will be able to pursue more courses relating to literature, culture and history
- These courses may be offered in the Faculty or may be borrowed from other Faculties
- You will spend your year abroad in Israel