Master of Arts in Hebrew and Aramaic Studies
Explore ancient languages and civilizations with a tailored, research-integrated master’s programme at Leiden University.
Best for:Best for students passionate about ancient languages, biblical studies, and Near Eastern civilizations who seek a research-intensive, interdisciplinary master’s programme with personalized specialization options.
Overview
This Master of Arts in Hebrew and Aramaic Studies at Leiden University offers a unique opportunity to delve into ancient languages and civilizations through a multidisciplinary approach. Led by internationally renowned scholars, the programme combines rigorous language training with cultural and historical analysis, focusing on Hebrew and Aramaic texts from the Old Testament and broader ancient Near Eastern contexts. Students can specialize in literature, culture, or cognate languages like Phoenician and Ugaritic, while also exploring adjacent fields such as linguistics and ancient history. The programme emphasizes individualization, ensuring students can align their studies with their specific academic interests and career goals.
What you'll do
- Engage in advanced study of Hebrew and Aramaic languages, including their grammar, syntax, and historical development.
- Analyze primary sources and literary texts from Ancient Israel and the broader ancient Near Eastern context.
- Conduct research on literature, culture, and history of Ancient Israel and Judaism, from 1200 BCE to 135 CE.
- Explore cognate languages such as Phoenician, Ugaritic, and other ancient Near Eastern idioms.
- Participate in electives from adjacent disciplines like linguistics, ancient history, and digital humanities.
- Develop specialized research skills through close mentorship and integration with ongoing faculty research projects.
- Tailor the curriculum to individual academic interests and career aspirations within the programme’s framework.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Classics, Ancient Civilizations, Hebrew and Aramaic Studies, or a related humanities discipline.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (minimum score 180), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (minimum score 180), IELTS overall band score of 6.5, or TOEFL internet-based score of 90.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in classical or ancient studies, linguistics, or related fields.
- Strong analytical and research skills applicable to ancient texts and languages.
- Basic proficiency in Hebrew or Aramaic (prior language study recommended).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
- No nationality restrictions; open to international applicants.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior work experience requirements.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal outlining their academic interests and specialization focus. Additional documents may be requested based on individual circumstances.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (Cambridge Certificate, IELTS, or TOEFL scores)
- Research proposal (describing academic interests and specialization focus)
Contact
Admissions Office· Master’s Admissions Coordinator
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.