Middle Eastern and African Studies is an interdisciplinary subject area that combines history, international relations, and modern languages. As a graduate in this field, you learn about Africa’s and Middle Eastern ethnicity, politics, and economy. Universities in the UK offer programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, where you develop skills like team management, analytical thinking, and time management. After completing the course, graduates can pursue careers in fields like humanitarian work, public policy, and social work.
If you want to study in the UK, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today? Our educational consultants will explain your study options and help you apply.
Top Five UK Universities for Middle Eastern & African Studies
Below is the list of the top five UK universities for studying Middle Eastern and African studies (CUG 2025).
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is a collegiate research university in Oxford, England. It has a long history of academic achievements and is known for its exceptional teaching, learning, and research opportunities. Each student enjoys personalised learning experiences with subject experts, which provides a safe and stimulating environment to grow and learn. Graduates learn about Africa’s history, culture, politics, and economy of the Middle Eastern countries like Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and Syria.
- Suggested Course: M.Phil in Modern Middle Eastern Studies
- International Fees: £38,550
- Entry Requirements: A first-class undergraduate degree with honours in any social science or humanities| Minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall or TOEFL iBT score of 110
2. University of Exeter
The Middle East Studies BA at Exeter provides a thorough knowledge of the contemporary Middle East, covering ethnography, economy, economic development, gender and identity, politics, culture, arts, religion, and society. No prior language study or knowledge of Arabic is required, although Persian or Arabic can be studied if desired.
Flexible module choices allow students to tailor the program to their interests, and Exeter academics, with expertise in social sciences and modern history, offer a balanced, multidisciplinary study. Graduates develop an appreciation and understanding of Middle Eastern culture, history, and language, opening career paths in various public and private sectors.
- Suggested Course: BA Middle East Studies
- International Fees: £23,700
- Entry Requirements: IB: 32/655 | International students must show they have the required level of English language proficiency to study this course.
3. University of St. Andrews
The University of St. Andrews is one of the most ancient universities in the world. Globally ranking 3rd in the University League Table 2024, the university provides an opportunity to learn with small classroom groups and high-quality teaching grounded in partnerships and interaction with teachers and students.
Middle East Studies is a four-year joint Honours degree that teaches various disciplinary skills to help you explore the world's cultural diversity. The first two years of study include modules on medieval and modern history, which comprise elements of the Middle East. Later in the third and final year, you can take advanced modules focusing on specific eras and regions of Middle Eastern history.
- Suggested Course: MA (Joint degree) in Middle East Studies
- International Fees: £33,000
- Entry Requirements: Excellent academic performance in bachelor studies with a specialisation in social sciences or humanities| IELTS or equivalent with a minimum qualifying score
4. University of Manchester
University of Manchester BA Middle Eastern Studies provides a rigorous, research-driven, interdisciplinary approach to studying Middle Eastern culture, where you gain an understanding of cultural and political factors. You will also learn to evaluate concepts, theories and an exploration of the underlying ethical issues. After completing the course, you can pursue careers in international and non-governmental organisations, politics, and civil society.
Students will be able to contact speakers of Arabic and get involved in events about Middle Eastern culture beyond the University in multicultural Manchester - from public lectures to cultural celebrations, including cinema, music and food festivals.
- Suggested Course: BA Middle Eastern Studies
- International Fees: £25,500
- Entry Requirements: International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall. 6,5,5 in Higher Level subjects
5. University of Edinburgh
If you want to pursue a career in literature, an MA in Middle Eastern Studies at Edinburgh University be a great option. The course is designed to gain an in-depth understanding of Middle Eastern literature, history, culture, and politics. During the course, you will learn to explore, evaluate, and compare key issues and concepts in group discussions and lectures. At the end of the programme, you will graduate with a combination of specialist knowledge and intercultural competence, which are valued by employers globally.
- Suggested Course: MA in Middle Eastern Studies
- International Fees: £33,000
- Entry Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in social sciences or humanities with minimum qualifying mark| Applicants must demonstrate a level of English language proficiency by qualifying tests like IELTS/TOEFL/CBT
Study in the UK
Why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today if you want to study in the UK? Our educational consultants will take you through your study options and help you apply.
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