Master of Arts in Semitic Studies
Explore ancient and modern Semitic languages, cultures, and histories in Berlin’s vibrant academic and cultural hub.
Best for:Best for students with a Bachelor’s in Semitic Studies or related fields, seeking to deepen their expertise in Semitic languages, linguistics, and cultural history in an interdisciplinary and research-rich environment.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary programme focused on Semitic languages, linguistics, and cultural history, with a strong emphasis on the West Asia and North Africa (WANA) region. Students engage with cutting-edge research, collaborate with international partners, and benefit from Berlin’s extensive cultural and academic resources, including museums, libraries, and research institutions. The programme is taught entirely in English and prepares graduates for careers in academia, cultural institutions, international organisations, and beyond. It builds on a Bachelor’s degree in Semitic Studies or a related field, requiring at least 60 credit points in relevant subjects.
What you'll do
- Conduct advanced research on Semitic languages, including Aramaic, Syriac, and Arabic, across historical and modern contexts.
- Engage in interdisciplinary coursework covering linguistics, cultural history, and religious minorities in WANA.
- Develop and write a Master’s thesis in English, demonstrating expertise in a chosen Semitic language or cultural topic.
- Collaborate with international research partners and institutions in Berlin and beyond.
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and cultural events related to Semitic Studies and WANA region.
- Leverage Berlin’s academic and cultural resources, including museums, libraries, and research centres.
Requirements
Degree required: A professionally qualifying Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university, including at least 60 credit points in Semitic Studies or related fields (e.g., Semitic languages, cultures, history of the Christian Orient, or non-Muslim minorities).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English proficiency at C1 level (e.g., IELTS Academic 7.0, TOEFL iBT 95, PTE Academic 76, or equivalent). No minimum German language requirement.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in Semitic Studies or related disciplines.
- Strong proficiency in at least one Semitic language (e.g., Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Hebrew, Ugaritic).
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers in English.
- Familiarity with interdisciplinary approaches to cultural and linguistic studies.
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- No age restrictions.
- No residency requirements.
- Equivalence of foreign degrees assessed by the Examination Board of the Department of History and Cultural Studies.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 15 August (Winter semester) or 15 February (Summer semester)
Applicants must submit their application through the uni-assist portal or the university’s official application website. Required documents include a completed application form, Bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a research proposal, and a letter of motivation. Additional documents may be requested based on individual circumstances.
- Completed application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Research proposal (1–2 pages)
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport-sized photograph
- Proof of payment of the semester contribution fee (if applicable)
Contact
Examination Board of the Department of History and Cultural Studies· Admissions Contact
https://www.geschkult.fu-berlin.de/e/semiarab/semitistik/studium/ma-semitic-studies/index.html
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