Programme structure
The duration of the master's programme is two years, and the programme consists of 120 credits
Recommended course of study
| 4. semester | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 3. semester | |||
| 2. semester | Elective course | Elective course | |
| 1. semester | |||
| Credits | 10 credits | 10 credits | 10 credits |
For students who were admitted to the program before 2025
- See the program structure for students who were admitted to the program in the?fall semester of 2020 or earlier
- See the program structure for students who were admitted to the program in the fall semester of 2024 or earlier
The program?consists of 120 credits:
The duration of the Master's program is two years,
- Compulsory courses?–?40 credits
- Elective courses?–?20 credits
- Thesis preparation?–?30 credits
- Master's thesis –?30 credits
The first two semesters build the methodological and theoretical basis for independent work on your master's thesis.?You should begin to reflect on a topic for your master thesis from day one. You will be provided with a thesis supervisor?at the beginning of the second semester.
First semester
Compulsory courses
MES4030 – Themes and Theories in Middle East studies MES4035 – Methods in Middle East Studies: History, Fieldwork, Literature, Linguistics MES4110 – Readings of Middle Eastern Texts
Second semester
Compulsory course
Elective courses
The second semester consists of two elective courses.?
Choose at least one of the following courses:
MES4500 – Topics in Middle East Politics and Society I MES4520 – Topics in Middle East Politics and Society II MES4210 – Topics in Arabic Studies I MES4230 – Topics in Persian Studies I MES4270 – Topics in Turkish Studies I MES4290 – Topics in Middle Eastern Literature and Culture
You can also choose one of the following courses:
KOS4050 – Religion and Politics KOS4070 – Koding for humaniora - metode og teori KOS4020 – Conference participation and presentation KOS4030 – Work as a research assistant
Elective courses may be offered on an irregular basis. You can find information about which semesters the course will be offered in the course description.?
You may apply for recognition of 10 credits obtained in other master's level courses.
For further inquiries, please contact?studentinfo@ikos.uio.no
Third semester - thesis preparation or semester abroad
Choose one of the following 30 credit options:
AMS4900 – International Project Term in Asia and the Middle East MES4550 – Fieldwork and Data Collection: Gathering and Communicating Research Results - Semester abroad
Fourth semester - thesis?
Useful resources
- The?department's website for master's students
- Previously submitted MA theses in Middle East Studies at the department
Diploma and degree
This programme leads to the following degree: Master's degree in Middle East Studies
The diploma is issued when you have completed the courses that meet the requirements for a degree. Read more about diplomas.