Research Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies
Explore the Middle East’s dynamic history, cultures, and contemporary challenges through interdisciplinary research at Leiden University.
Best for:Best for scholars with a strong interest in Middle Eastern history, cultures, and contemporary issues, seeking a research-focused master’s programme with interdisciplinary flexibility.
Overview
This two-year Research Master’s programme in Middle Eastern Studies at Leiden University offers advanced training in comparative Area Studies, focusing on the region’s historical and contemporary complexities. Students engage with diverse themes—from Ottoman and Arab histories to migration, media, ecology, and colonialism—while developing independent research skills. The programme emphasizes cross-disciplinary approaches, comparative analysis, and the integration of Middle Eastern studies with broader global contexts. Ideal for scholars seeking a rigorous, research-intensive environment, it provides tailored supervision, methodological training, and opportunities to shape a scholarly profile. Graduates emerge with expertise in critical analysis and regional specialization, equipped for academic or professional careers in the humanities and social sciences.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research on a specialized topic within Middle Eastern Studies, guided by faculty supervision.
- Develop and refine a research proposal under comparative Area Studies methodologies.
- Engage in advanced methodological training to enhance analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Participate in interdisciplinary seminars and workshops to explore regional and global connections.
- Present research findings at academic conferences or publish in peer-reviewed journals.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers to contribute to ongoing research projects in the field.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Middle Eastern Studies, History, Anthropology, or a related humanities/social sciences field
Degree offered: Master of Arts (Research)
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency (185), IELTS (7.0 overall), TOEFL (100), or Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (185)
Instruction: English
- Proficient research and analytical skills in humanities or social sciences
- Ability to work independently and manage complex research projects
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English
- Familiarity with comparative Area Studies methodologies
- No nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps beyond academic qualifications
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit an online application through Leiden University’s portal, including academic transcripts, a research proposal, a CV, and proof of English proficiency. Additional documents may be requested based on the programme’s requirements.
- CV
- Research proposal
- Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge Certificate)
- Letter of motivation
Contact
Admissions Office· Programme Coordinator
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