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Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (IMES) at The University of Edinburgh - UCAS

Course options

2026 - 2027
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There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

This Masters by Research (MScR) programme is ideal if you would like to complete a short piece of independent research in Islamic and Middle Eastern studies (IMES). It builds on your knowledge in IMES or related fields and aims to develop and enhance your research skills and your skills in academic writing. An MScR programme is likely to suit you if:

  • you have a clear idea what you would like to write your masters dissertation about, right from the beginning of the programme
  • you would like to be part of a large and supportive postgraduate community, while working independently
It is a good stepping-stone to a PhD, but is equally of value as a stand-alone qualification. On this programme:
  • you will take courses in research skills and methods
  • you will complete two research assignments, each of 6,000 words
  • you will write a 15,000 word dissertation under the guidance of an experienced and well-published supervisor
With over 260 years of history in teaching and research, we are recognised internationally as a leading centre for postgraduate study in Islamic and Middle Eastern studies. We are able to supervise research in a wide range of specialist and interdisciplinary areas. Our expertise includes:
  • language, literature, arts and cultures
  • history and historiography
  • religion
  • contemporary politics and media
  • gender and sexuality
  • diasporas and ethnic minorities
  • Palestine studies
You are not required to have any prior competence in a Middle Eastern language, but you will have the opportunity to take courses in Arabic, Persian or Turkish. Our research collections resources and facilities are outstanding, and we have excellent links with a number of centres and networks, including the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World and the Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Studies.

Modules

See the University of Edinburgh website for detailed programme information.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for individual programmes vary, so please check the details for the specific programme you wish to apply for on the University of Edinburgh website. You will also need to meet the University’s language requirements.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Tuition fees vary between degree programmes. Find the specific fees for your chosen programme on our website.
Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (IMES) at The University of Edinburgh - UCAS