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It is a key language in international diplomacy, journalism, global business, religion and security. A degree in Arabic offers the opportunity to gain fluency in a language of immense historical, cultural and geopolitical significance while exploring literature, religion, politics and media across the Arabic-speaking world. Whether your interests lie in classical texts, modern Middle Eastern affairs or global communication, Arabic provides access to a vast and complex cultural landscape.
Why Study Arabic?
Arabic is an official language of the United Nations and a critical language in international relations, development and counterterrorism. It is essential for professionals working in diplomacy, humanitarian work, journalism, translation, business and intelligence. Studying Arabic develops deep linguistic skill, intercultural awareness and intellectual flexibility. It allows students to engage with Arabic literature, philosophy, Islamic thought, political movements and regional conflicts through original sources. Arabic is also a deeply rewarding language that challenges learners to think differently about structure, meaning and expression.
What Does an Arabic Degree Involve?
A degree in Arabic typically includes intensive study of Modern Standard Arabic and sometimes Classical Arabic, as well as dialect exposure such as Egyptian, Levantine or Gulf Arabic. Language training focuses on grammar, script, pronunciation, reading, listening, writing and speaking. Cultural components include Arabic literature, Islamic studies, Middle Eastern politics, media and cinema, history of the Arab world, contemporary social issues and gender studies. Most degrees include a compulsory year abroad, often spent in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco or other Arabic-speaking countries. This immersive experience is central to building real-world language competence and cultural understanding.
Studying Arabic in the UK
Arabic is offered at both specialist institutions and comprehensive universities, either as a single honours degree or combined with subjects such as History, Politics, Islamic Studies, Religion, International Relations or another language.
Higher entry requirements (AAB to A*AA): University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, SOAS University of London, Durham University
Typical entry requirements (ABB to BBB): University of Edinburgh, University of Leeds, University of Exeter, University of Manchester
Wider access and lower entry requirements (BBC to CCC or equivalent): University of Westminster, University of Central Lancashire, University of Roehampton, Aberystwyth University
Most universities welcome beginners and offer ab initio pathways, as Arabic is not widely taught at school level in the UK. Advanced-entry options may be available for students with prior experience in Arabic or heritage speakers.
A Level and Equivalent Entry Requirements
Arabic degrees rarely require A Level Arabic and most are designed for complete beginners. However, students are typically expected to have strong grades in essay-based subjects such as English, History, Religious Studies or Politics. Universities accept a wide range of qualifications including the International Baccalaureate, BTEC and Access to HE Diplomas. GCSEs in a foreign language may be useful, especially to demonstrate aptitude for language learning.
What Makes a Strong Application?
Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in Arabic language and culture, awareness of Middle Eastern current affairs and an openness to global perspectives. A strong personal statement might mention independent study, use of language-learning apps, interest in Arabic music or media, visits to Arabic-speaking countries or involvement in intercultural events. Motivation, commitment and an interest in language structure and global challenges are key qualities for success in this field.
Studying Arabic in the European Union
Arabic is taught across many EU universities within faculties of Middle Eastern studies, Islamic studies or modern languages. German, French and Dutch universities often offer Arabic alongside Islamic civilisation, history or linguistics. Institutions such as Leiden University, Freie Universität Berlin and Université de Genève provide Arabic courses with strong research traditions and opportunities for fieldwork or exchange. Some EU institutions partner with universities in North Africa or the Levant and offer immersive study-abroad options. Courses may focus on both classical and modern literature, political Islam, regional conflict and Arabic dialects.
Studying Arabic in the United States
Arabic is designated a critical language by the US government and is widely taught at major universities. Institutions such as Georgetown University, University of California Berkeley, University of Chicago and Harvard University offer Arabic as part of Middle Eastern Studies, Near Eastern Languages or Global Affairs programmes. US degrees often include classical Arabic, Qur’anic studies, comparative religion, Middle East politics and Arabic media. Many programmes offer study-abroad placements in Jordan, Morocco or Egypt and support for internships in international organisations or government agencies.
Studying Arabic in Canada
Arabic is offered at Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of Ottawa and University of British Columbia. It may be studied as a language major or as part of Islamic Studies, Middle Eastern Studies or Linguistics degrees. Programmes typically include language training, Arabic literature and Islamic history, as well as options for travel, fieldwork and exchange. Many Canadian universities have partnerships with institutions in North Africa or the Middle East and promote community engagement with Arabic-speaking populations.
Studying Arabic in Australia and New Zealand
Arabic is available at several major universities in Australia and New Zealand, including the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Australian National University and University of Auckland. Degrees may focus on Arabic language, Islamic civilisation, Middle East history, Arabic media and literature. Programmes often include exchange or study-abroad opportunities in the Arab world, allowing students to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding through real-world immersion. Arabic is often studied within broader degrees in international studies, religion, linguistics or security studies.
Career Opportunities for Arabic Graduates
Arabic graduates are in demand in international relations, diplomacy, intelligence, journalism, humanitarian work, education, law, translation and business. Possible roles include translator or interpreter, Middle East policy analyst, foreign correspondent, language teacher, NGO field officer, academic researcher, cultural advisor, legal or business consultant and public affairs specialist. Arabic is especially useful in government departments, international agencies, media organisations and global non-profits operating in or with the Arab world. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in areas such as international development, Islamic studies, conflict resolution, linguistics or public policy.
Is an Arabic Degree Right for You?
If you are fascinated by language, religion, politics and global culture, and are ready to commit to a rigorous but deeply rewarding language, then Arabic may be the right choice. A degree in Arabic offers far more than linguistic skill. It gives you access to one of the richest literary and religious traditions in the world and the ability to engage with the people, ideas and issues shaping the modern Middle East and North Africa. Whether your ambitions lie in diplomacy, journalism, education or humanitarian work, Arabic will provide you with insight, credibility and access that few other languages can offer.
