BA Arabic and Politics

Students on the BA Arabic and Politics at the University of Exeter gain practical experience by combining advanced Arabic language learning with the study of Middle Eastern politics, international relations and cultural issues. The programme helps students develop practical communication, research and analytical skills through immersive language learning, overseas study opportunities and independent research projects. Students benefit from specialist academic resources, including the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, which provides a dedicated environment for studying Arabic language, politics and the wider Middle East region.

The programme develops practical skills through language training, research activities and international experiences:

• Develop strong Arabic communication skills through interactive language classes that focus on improving speaking, listening, reading and writing abilities.

• Gain international experience through a dedicated year abroad at an approved institution in an Arabic-speaking country, allowing students to practise Arabic in real-life situations and gain cultural understanding.

• Study within the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies (IAIS), a specialist centre for Arabic, Middle Eastern and Islamic studies with dedicated learning spaces and resources.

• Use the institute’s language laboratory and computing facilities to support Arabic language practice, digital learning and independent study.

• Build research skills through essays, presentations, research assignments and the final-year Dissertation, where students explore political, cultural or regional topics in depth.

• Participate in seminars, discussions and interactive classes that encourage students to analyse political ideas, international issues and developments in the Middle East.

• Develop teamwork and communication skills through group discussions, collaborative learning activities and student-led academic work.

• Access University of Exeter library resources and specialist academic materials to support language learning, politics studies and dissertation research.

• Engage with student societies and academic communities related to politics, Arabic and Middle Eastern studies to exchange ideas and expand cultural awareness.

• Enhance career-focused skills through additional learning opportunities, including Future Skills Pathways and opportunities to broaden knowledge beyond the core programme.

A BA Arabic and Politics degree from the University of Exeter prepares graduates for global careers by combining advanced Arabic language skills with a strong understanding of Middle Eastern politics, international relations and cultural affairs. The programme helps students develop analytical thinking, research abilities, communication skills and cultural awareness, creating opportunities across areas such as government, international organisations, education, media and business. Typical career paths include Government Officer, Research Associate, Parliamentary Assistant, Graduate Management Trainee, Teacher, Writer, Intelligence Analyst and International Relations Professional.

The programme supports students’ career development through specialist employability support, international experience and opportunities to build professional skills:

• Access support from the University of Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides personalised careers advice, employability workshops, employer events, graduate opportunity support and guidance to help students prepare for future careers.

• Take part in the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award, which help students strengthen employability skills through workshops, volunteering, leadership activities and career development opportunities.

• Develop valuable workplace skills including critical thinking, independent research, written and verbal communication, teamwork, organisation, planning and intercultural understanding.

• Gain international experience through the programme’s year abroad in an Arabic-speaking country, allowing students to improve language fluency, adapt to different cultural environments and develop confidence in global settings.

• Explore career opportunities across sectors such as diplomacy, government, international organisations, education, research, journalism, business and non-governmental organisations.

• Benefit from graduate career examples linked to Arab and Islamic Studies at Exeter, with graduates moving into roles such as Acting Head of Middle East and Africa Team, Graduate Management Trainee, Parliamentary Assistant, Research Associate, Teacher, Writer and Officer Cadet.

• Build long-term career value through the combination of Arabic language expertise, regional knowledge and political understanding, which are highly valued in international and multicultural workplaces.

• Benefit from Exeter’s strong reputation in related subject areas, including its global standing in Politics and strong performance in African and Middle Eastern Studies.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BA Arabic and Politics, graduates can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as MA Near and Middle Eastern Studies, MA Modern Middle Eastern Politics, MA International Studies with Diplomacy, MA Kurdish Studies, MPhil Middle Eastern Studies, MA Translation, PhD Arabic Literature and PhD Islamic Studies. These further study options allow graduates to specialise in regional studies, diplomacy, politics, languages or academic research depending on their career goals.