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Classical Philology and Ancient Civilizations● OpenMastersPreview

Research Master in Hebrew and Aramaic Studies

Tailored advanced study of ancient Hebrew and Aramaic languages, cultures, and civilizations with Leiden University’s leading experts.

Best for:Best for advanced students with a strong background in classical philology, ancient history, or related humanities disciplines seeking rigorous research training in Hebrew and Aramaic studies.

Leiden University · Leiden, Netherlands
More professors at Leiden University
Ancient Hebrew literature and cultureAramaic studiesOld Testament and Ancient JudaismSemitic languages and philologyTextual criticism and manuscript studiesComparative ancient civilizations
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Apr 1, 2027
165 days
Funding
—
2 years
Start date
Flexible (typically aligned with academic calendar)
Full-time
Location
Leiden
Netherlands

Overview

This Research Master’s programme in Hebrew and Aramaic Studies at Leiden University offers specialized training in ancient languages and civilizations, focusing on Hebrew Bible, Ancient Judaism, and related Semitic languages like Aramaic, Phoenician, and Ugaritic. Delivered by internationally recognized scholars, the programme emphasizes primary sources, interdisciplinary approaches, and individualized research paths. Students engage with rare disciplines, benefit from Leiden’s extensive library resources, and can specialize in areas such as literature, linguistics, or ancient history. The curriculum is flexible, allowing candidates to explore broader cultural contexts or deepen expertise in specific fields like textual criticism or comparative philology.

Hebrew Bible researchAncient Judaism studiesAramaic philologySemitic languagesTextual analysisAncient Near Eastern historyResearch Master’s programmeLeiden University Classics

What you'll do

  • Conduct in-depth research on Hebrew and Aramaic texts, languages, and ancient civilizations under expert supervision.
  • Engage with primary sources and rare manuscripts, applying advanced philological and linguistic methodologies.
  • Develop specialized knowledge in a chosen area, such as literature, linguistics, or historical context of Ancient Israel.
  • Participate in interdisciplinary seminars and workshops, integrating insights from adjacent fields like ancient history or linguistics.
  • Tailor the programme to individual research interests, leveraging Leiden’s extensive library and scholarly networks.
  • Present research findings in academic forums and contribute to ongoing scholarly debates in the field.

Requirements

Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Classics, Ancient History, Philology, or a related humanities discipline (or equivalent).

Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)

Language: English; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (minimum score 180), IELTS overall band 6.5, TOEFL internet-based 90, or Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (minimum score 180).

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Advanced proficiency in Hebrew and/or Aramaic languages
  • Strong analytical and critical reading skills for ancient texts
  • Familiarity with philological and linguistic methodologies
  • Ability to conduct independent research with academic rigor
Nice to have
Experience with digital humanities tools for textual analysisKnowledge of cognate languages (e.g., Phoenician, Ugaritic)Prior research experience in ancient civilizations or biblical studies
Eligibility
  • No specific nationality restrictions
  • No residency requirements mentioned
  • No age limits specified

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
2 years
Programme
—

Programme and admissions

Admissions not verified

A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.

Intake
Not confirmed by the source
Duration
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Teaching language
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Taught / research mode
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Study mode
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Campus
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Prerequisites
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Application instructions
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Tuition
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Funding
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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 the intended focus of study. Additional materials may be requested based on the programme’s specific requirements.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Letter of motivation
  • Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge Certificate)
  • Research proposal (describing intended focus and methodology)
↗Check programme and admissions

Contact

Lab
Chair of Hebrew and Aramaic Studies
Leiden University
Netherlands
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.