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Postgraduate Study

Teaching

Students are expected to work closely with their supervisor throughout the year on a thesis of not more than 25,000 words, which must be submitted in August.

During the year, MPhil students are also encouraged to attend Masters-level taught papers, including Theory and Method in Middle Eastern Studies, as well as fourth-year undergraduate lectures and language courses where relevant. They are also encouraged to participate fully in the wider academic life of the department and the University - various training courses, reading groups and seminars, including the department's fortnightly research seminar and the Centre for Islamic Studies seminars.

 

One to one supervision

Ten hours per year.

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University's expectations regarding supervision.

Seminars & classes

24 hours per year (MESM1 Theory and Method in Middle Eastern Studies).

Literature Reviews

Three formative assignments (not part of the final summative degree assessment) of 5,000-words in total for MESM1 Theory and Method in Middle Eastern Studies.

Posters and Presentations

At least two formative workshop presentations in MESM1 Theory and Method in Middle Eastern Studies.

Taught/Research Balance Entirely Research

Feedback

Students will receive feedback on their work throughout the year from regular one-on-one supervisions with their Supervisor. Supervisors will produce feedback via online termly supervision reports.

In addition, students will receive feedback on formative assignments in MESM1 Theory and Method in Middle Eastern Studies.

Assessment

Thesis / Dissertation

Students will submit a thesis of not more than 25,000 words, including footnotes and appendices, but excluding the bibliography on a subject approved by the Degree Committee. All MPhil theses must include a brief abstract at the start of the thesis of no more than 400 words.

Students must have an oral examination (viva), normally held in September.

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Key Information


12 months full-time

2 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Master of Philosophy

Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
May 16, 2025
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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