Asian and Middle Eastern Studies University of Cambridge

Overview

The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies programme at the University of Cambridge offers an immersive academic experience that spans from classical antiquity to the modern era. This flexible degree allows students to engage deeply with the languages, societies, and politics of regions ranging from East Asia to North Africa. By combining rigorous linguistic training with cultural analysis, the course prepares graduates to navigate complex global environments.

Why Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge?

Ranked third in the UK for Languages and Linguistics, the faculty provides a world-class environment for scholarly development. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct interaction with leading researchers who integrate their latest findings into the curriculum. Facilities include a dedicated faculty library housing 70,000 items, alongside access to the historic Cambridge University Library, one of the oldest and most significant collections in the world.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 29052 per year
• National fee: GBP 9790 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to move from intensive foundational language study to advanced specialist research. Modules may include:

• Chinese
• Japanese
• Arabic
• Hebrew
• Persian
• Korean
• Hindi
• Sanskrit
• Classical Islamic Civilisation
• Dynastic and Modern China
• Japanese Society
• Modern Middle East
• Anthropology of Islam
• Dissertation
• Specialist Options

Careers with Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

Graduates from this programme possess advanced communication, research, and analytical skills that are highly valued by international employers. Many alumni secure roles within the Civil Service, particularly the Foreign Office, or pursue careers in the media, business, and commerce sectors. The degree also provides a strong foundation for professional paths in law, banking, marketing, and non-governmental organisations. Additionally, some graduates choose to enter academia, teaching overseas, or the tourism industry, utilising their specialist linguistic expertise and cultural knowledge.