UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies MSc
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 3rdin the UK for Modern Languages (QS World Rankings by Subject 2026)
- 3rdin the UK for Arts & Humanities (QS World Rankings by Subject 2026)
- 260+ yearsof teaching and research history in the field
- Flexible curriculumwith optional language learning
- Alwaleed Centrefor promoting understanding of Islam
- Yasir Suleiman Prizefor best master's dissertation
The MSc in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Edinburgh offers an advanced, interdisciplinary exploration of the history, politics, society, and culture of the Islamic and Middle Eastern world. The program is designed to deepen your understanding of the field's diverse disciplines, whether you have prior experience or are new to the subject. You will engage with critical readings, develop research skills, and choose from a wide array of optional courses, including language learning opportunities in Arabic, Persian, or Turkish. This intensive one-year program culminates in a substantial dissertation. Edinburgh boasts over 260 years of expertise in this subject area, establishing it as a global leader in Islamic Middle Eastern studies. The university provides exceptional research facilities, including a dedicated Islamic Library and extensive collections. Students also benefit from the Alwaleed Centre, which fosters a deeper understanding of Islam through research and outreach. Upon completion, the best master's dissertation is recognized with the prestigious Yasir Suleiman Prize.
Curriculum
The MSc is a one-year full-time program. In Semester 1 and 2, you will take a course in research skills and dissertation training, alongside a core course focusing on critical thinking in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies. You will select two optional courses in each semester from a broad range of specialisms. The program concludes with a 15,000-word dissertation submitted approximately 12 weeks after the end of Semester 2.
- Year 1
- Research skills and dissertation training
- Critical thinking in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (core)
- Optional courses (e.g., Arabic, Persian, Turkish language)
- Dissertation (15,000 words)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies?
- You will typically need a 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent to be considered for the program. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 October 2026.
- How long is the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies programme?
- The MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies is a full-time, one-year programme. It concludes with a 15,000-word dissertation submitted approximately 12 weeks after the end of Semester 2.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (1 year) are listed annually on the university's fee page. A 10% graduate discount may be available for University of Edinburgh alumni.
- What are the estimated living costs for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh?
- For 2026-2027, estimated living costs for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh average £18,504 per year, which includes accommodation, food, and local travel. Exact costs will vary based on personal preferences.
- When are the application deadlines?
- You should check the degree finder for specific program application deadlines, as applying early is recommended. Scholarship deadlines, such as for the Tercentenary Award for Excellence, are typically around May 1st.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MSc?
- Graduates have pursued careers in various professions or continued to PhD studies. The interdisciplinary nature of the MSc prepares students for a range of career paths.
Entry requirements
UK Honours degreeA 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.
Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2026.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (1 year) are listed annually on the university's fee page. A 10% graduate discount may be available for University of Edinburgh alumni, including some visiting undergraduate students.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (1 year) are listed annually on the university's fee page. A 10% graduate discount may be available for University of Edinburgh alumni, including some visiting undergraduate students.
LivingFor 2026-2027, estimated living costs for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh average £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month). This estimate covers accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel. Exact costs vary based on personal preferences and accommodation choices. Accommodation and utilities average £978 per month, food and shopping £248 per month, mobile £12 per month, socialising/leisure £246 per month, and local bus travel £58 per month.
No deposit is required to secure your place on this program. Students typically fund their studies through a combination of loans, family support, personal savings, income from work, employer sponsorship, and scholarships.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsVerify that you meet the specific academic and English language requirements for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies program.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including a personal statement, information about your skills and experience, and academic qualifications. Ensure all information is complete and accurate.
3. Submit Your ApplicationApply through the university's degree finder. The program page will provide specific instructions on how to apply online.
4. Track Your ApplicationAfter submission, you can track the status of your application. You will be notified of the university's decision, and instructions on how to accept your offer will be provided.
Scholarships
Tercentenary Award for Excellence£5,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies?
+
You will typically need a 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent to be considered for the program. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 October 2026.
How long is the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies programme?
+
The MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies is a full-time, one-year programme. It concludes with a 15,000-word dissertation submitted approximately 12 weeks after the end of Semester 2.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees for the MSc Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (1 year) are listed annually on the university's fee page. A 10% graduate discount may be available for University of Edinburgh alumni.
What are the estimated living costs for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh?
+
For 2026-2027, estimated living costs for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh average £18,504 per year, which includes accommodation, food, and local travel. Exact costs will vary based on personal preferences.
When are the application deadlines?
+
You should check the degree finder for specific program application deadlines, as applying early is recommended. Scholarship deadlines, such as for the Tercentenary Award for Excellence, are typically around May 1st.
What are the career prospects after completing this MSc?
+
Graduates have pursued careers in various professions or continued to PhD studies. The interdisciplinary nature of the MSc prepares students for a range of career paths.