Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew and Pre-Modern Jewish History and Culture)

The Hebrew and Pre-Modern History and Culture pathway is designed for highly motivated students who would like to develop their knowledge and understanding of the pre-modern Jewish history and culture of North Africa and the Middle East, with a particular focus on the Cairo Genizah manuscripts, together with the research skills necessary to carry out independent primary research work to a high academic standard through engagement with primary sources in Hebrew or another relevant pre-modern Middle Eastern language. Graduates will be well placed to pursue further research in a PhD programme, to use their skills and knowledge in the heritage sector, in education, or in any other field where cultural understanding, linguistic skills and high level critical thinking, analysis and communication skills are needed.

Learning Outcomes The Hebrew and Pre-Modern History and Culture pathway will equip its graduates with the skills and knowledge to research independently and effectively the history and literatures of the Jews of pre-modern North Africa and the Middle East, including further development of their skills in reading Hebrew or other Middle Eastern source materials. Graduates will also be able to show a sophisticated understanding of the wider field of Middle Eastern Studies and the ability to communicate their knowledge and their research findings effectively.

Continuing All applicants should submit, via the Applicant Portal, a workable and relevant research proposal and demonstrate that they have the required academic knowledge and skills to carry out their project.

Those students who are enrolled in an MPhil by Advanced Studies at the University of Cambridge and wish to continue to the PhD programme at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies will be required to obtain at least 67 per cent overall in their MPhil by Advanced Studies degree and satisfy any pre-existing requirements also set by the Degree Committee, i.e. English language requirement.

Admission is at the discretion of the Degree Committee, which judges each applicant on their own merits and in accordance with its own set of rules and regulations.