Arabic and Politics MA (Hons)

One of the best parts of studying Arabic and Politics at Edinburgh is how much you get to learn by doing, not just by reading textbooks. This degree is built around real-world experiences, immersive language learning, and opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical ways. You’ll learn Arabic by using it in everyday life, explore political ideas through real events and debates, and gain research and communication skills that employers truly value.

Here’s how Edinburgh makes learning hands-on and engaging:

• Year Abroad in an Arabic-speaking country:
  Your third year will be a transformative experience — you’ll spend around 30 weeks living and studying in an Arabic-speaking country. This is your chance to use Arabic daily, experience local culture firsthand, and study topics like politics, international relations, or Middle Eastern history in a completely immersive environment.

• Independent dissertation project:
  In your final year, you’ll design and complete a major research project in either Arabic or Politics. With one-to-one support from an academic supervisor, you’ll explore a topic you’re passionate about and build advanced skills in research, analysis, and academic writing.

• Interactive assessments and creative projects:
  Learning isn’t limited to essays and exams — you’ll deliver presentations, record podcasts, design posters, and take part in oral language exams. These varied tasks are designed to sharpen your communication skills and prepare you for real-world challenges.

• Small-group tutorials and language practice:
  Alongside lectures and seminars, you’ll join small tutorials where you’ll practice speaking, reading, writing, and listening in Arabic. These sessions help you build confidence and fluency in a supportive environment.

• Access to world-class libraries and collections:
  You’ll use the University’s Main Library and the Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Library, home to over 23,000 specialist resources including rare Arabic texts. You can also work with original manuscripts and archives from the Centre for Research Collections.

• Opportunities to connect with research institutes:
  You’ll benefit from resources like the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World, which hosts talks, events, and research projects that deepen your understanding of global political and cultural issues.

• Flexible course options and interdisciplinary projects:
  In your early years, you can choose option courses from areas like business, law, or anthropology — opening doors to collaborative projects and expanding your perspective beyond the core degree.

• Academic and peer support throughout your studies:
  Workshops from the Institute for Academic Development and peer-support networks ensure you’re always supported — whether you’re improving study skills or tackling challenging topics.

• A city that becomes part of your classroom:
  Studying in the heart of Edinburgh means learning extends beyond campus. With nearby national libraries, museums, and political institutions, you’ll have endless opportunities to connect theory with real-world contexts.

Graduating with a degree in Arabic and Politics from Edinburgh opens doors to a truly global career. With advanced language skills, cultural fluency, and deep political understanding, you’ll be prepared for impactful roles across government, international organisations, media, and development. Many graduates go on to work as diplomats or foreign service officers, policy analysts, journalists, international relations specialists, and more.

Your skills will be valued worldwide — especially in roles that require cross-cultural communication, political awareness, and the ability to bridge the gap between the Arabic-speaking world and international institutions. Here’s how Edinburgh helps you build a successful future:

• Career support and tailored guidance: The University’s award-winning Careers Service offers personalised coaching, interview preparation, themed job fairs, and internship opportunities. You’ll also benefit from events like “Life After LLC”, where language and politics graduates return to share real-world career insights.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Edinburgh graduates are highly sought after by employers in diplomacy, policy, international development, journalism, translation, education, and consulting. Many start their careers with salaries in the £25,000–£35,000 range, with significant growth potential as they gain experience.

• International experience and networks: A compulsory Year Abroad in an Arabic-speaking country is built into your degree, giving you real immersion in the language and region while connecting you to valuable academic and professional networks.

• Industry and institutional connections: You’ll have opportunities to engage with the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World, attend guest lectures from diplomats and policy experts, and access links with government departments, NGOs, and cultural organisations.

• Global recognition and long-term value: You’ll graduate with an internationally respected MA (Hons) from one of the world’s top universities — a qualification that carries strong academic and professional weight across the globe.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re passionate about continuing your studies, you’ll have excellent options after graduation. Many students progress to Master’s programmes in fields like Middle Eastern Studies, International Relations, or Global Politics, while others pursue PhDs or specialist qualifications in diplomacy, translation, or public policy — building on their undergraduate expertise to open even more career paths.