Persian and Middle Eastern Studies MA (Hons) 48 months Undergraduate Programme By The University of Edinburgh |TopUniversities

Programme overview

Main Subject

Modern Languages

Degree

MA

Study Level

Undergraduate

Study Mode

On Campus

Persian is one of the major languages of the Middle East and Central Asia. Its modern form has three variants which, collectively, are the first language of over 120 million people. It is the national language of Iran, where it is known as Farsi. It is spoken as Dari in Afghanistan and Tajik in Tajikistan.


To study Persian is to enter into a rich and diverse culture that has produced:


  • major epic and Sufi poets
  • world-class cinema
  • exquisite fine art and textiles


Our programme is also your gateway to understanding modern Iran and the dynamics of the wider Middle East.


With increasing migration in response to changing global dynamics, there is demand for graduates of Persian in Scotland, the UK and abroad. Wherever you are based in the world, the ability to communicate in the modern Persian language and to understand Middle Eastern cultures, will make you stand out.


Language learning in its cultural context


Our programme is designed for complete beginners in Persian. It is not for native speakers, but we do welcome heritage language learners. We can also accommodate students with some prior experience of studying Persian, potentially through exemptions from introductory language study.


You will develop advanced language skills over your four years, including in translation. You will learn to express yourself in modern Persian on a wide range of topical issues, and will gain the skills to engage with original material and contemporary Persian texts.


As well as developing your language skills, you will also study the Middle East from a range of perspectives:


  • historical
  • literary
  • cultural
  • political


You will take an introductory course in the religion of Islam and, optionally, an honours course from another discipline such as:


  • Divinity
  • Politics
  • Social Anthropology
  • History
  • History of Art


Why Edinburgh


The University of Edinburgh is recognised in the UK and internationally as a leading institution for teaching and research in Persian, Islam and the Middle East.


As part of your programme, you can opt to learn Arabic, Turkish or one of many other world languages too.


You will have access to over 23,000 resources in the University's collections in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies, and a regular programme of workshops, film screenings, book launches and guest seminars.


When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.


Programme benefits


  • Learn in an historic capital city where Persian has been taught since the 19th century.
  • Study over four years, giving you the choice and flexibility to try out different things.
  • Build up to fluency in a language spoken by over 120 million people worldwide.
  • Specialise in different aspects of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies as you move through your degree.
  • Explore fantastic libraries and collections at the University and in the city.
  • Join societies, attend events, and gain the skills and confidence for life after university.

Programme overview

Main Subject

Modern Languages

Degree

MA

Study Level

Undergraduate

Study Mode

On Campus

Persian is one of the major languages of the Middle East and Central Asia. Its modern form has three variants which, collectively, are the first language of over 120 million people. It is the national language of Iran, where it is known as Farsi. It is spoken as Dari in Afghanistan and Tajik in Tajikistan.


To study Persian is to enter into a rich and diverse culture that has produced:


  • major epic and Sufi poets
  • world-class cinema
  • exquisite fine art and textiles


Our programme is also your gateway to understanding modern Iran and the dynamics of the wider Middle East.


With increasing migration in response to changing global dynamics, there is demand for graduates of Persian in Scotland, the UK and abroad. Wherever you are based in the world, the ability to communicate in the modern Persian language and to understand Middle Eastern cultures, will make you stand out.


Language learning in its cultural context


Our programme is designed for complete beginners in Persian. It is not for native speakers, but we do welcome heritage language learners. We can also accommodate students with some prior experience of studying Persian, potentially through exemptions from introductory language study.


You will develop advanced language skills over your four years, including in translation. You will learn to express yourself in modern Persian on a wide range of topical issues, and will gain the skills to engage with original material and contemporary Persian texts.


As well as developing your language skills, you will also study the Middle East from a range of perspectives:


  • historical
  • literary
  • cultural
  • political


You will take an introductory course in the religion of Islam and, optionally, an honours course from another discipline such as:


  • Divinity
  • Politics
  • Social Anthropology
  • History
  • History of Art


Why Edinburgh


The University of Edinburgh is recognised in the UK and internationally as a leading institution for teaching and research in Persian, Islam and the Middle East.


As part of your programme, you can opt to learn Arabic, Turkish or one of many other world languages too.


You will have access to over 23,000 resources in the University's collections in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies, and a regular programme of workshops, film screenings, book launches and guest seminars.


When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.


Programme benefits


  • Learn in an historic capital city where Persian has been taught since the 19th century.
  • Study over four years, giving you the choice and flexibility to try out different things.
  • Build up to fluency in a language spoken by over 120 million people worldwide.
  • Specialise in different aspects of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies as you move through your degree.
  • Explore fantastic libraries and collections at the University and in the city.
  • Join societies, attend events, and gain the skills and confidence for life after university.

Admission Requirements

Entry requirements for individual programmes vary, so please check the details for the specific programme you wish to apply for on the University of Edinburgh website. You will also need to meet the University’s language requirements.

4 Years
Sep

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