Arabic and French MA (Hons)

Level: Undergraduate

Subject: Arabic and Persian

Year of entry: 2026

Key facts

UCAS Code

TR61

Award

MA (Hons)

Duration of study

4 years

Delivery

Full-time

Study location

Central Area

Start date

September 2026

School

School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures

College

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Study abroad

Mandatory

Placement

No

Open days and events

About the degree programme

Two of the world's most widely spoken languages, Arabic and French make an excellent joint honours combination.

On our programme, you will gain written and spoken skills in both languages and explore their impact on world cultures. You will also look at the interaction between Arabic and French speakers which has taken place over many centuries, from the Chansons de Gestes of medieval times to the cinema and music of contemporary Europe and North Africa.

We have built a full academic year abroad into our four-year programme, providing complete immersion in both languages in Year 3. In all other years of study, you can choose courses that match your own interests, expertise and needs.

When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

Arabic

Arabic is the main language of more than 350 million people inhabiting a huge swathe of land extending from the Atlantic to the Persian Gulf. It is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world and is one of the six official languages of the United Nations. 

Opening the door to a fascinating and varied region, knowledge of Arabic provides access to the rich intellectual heritage of Islam, and to the history, societies, cultures and politics of the Middle East.

Our programme is designed for complete beginners in Arabic. It is not for native speakers, but we do welcome heritage language learners. We can also accommodate students with some prior experience of studying Arabic through exemptions from introductory language study. By Year 3, all students will have the language skills to study in a country in which Arabic is spoken.

French

French is a major world language, spoken in many parts of Europe, Africa and the Americas. French-speaking (Francophone) art and thought have played a central part in shaping contemporary society and culture.

As part of our programme, you can opt to learn the fundamentals of the Basque language in addition to studying French to an advanced level.

To enhance and contextualise your language learning, you will explore Francophone:

  • literature and cinema
  • political history
  • philosophical ideas

Our courses cover material from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. They include specialist options in key disciplines such as decolonial, gender and film studies, all taught by leading experts.

How long it takes to complete this degree programme

This programme is studied over 4 years, including a Year Abroad. This enables us to build choice and flexibility into your studies, giving you time to explore options, find what you like and build your skills.

Your first two years will be your pre-honours years. They will give you a good grounding in the Arabic and French languages and in the study of various cultures worldwide in which the languages are spoken.

Your final two years will be your honours years. You will spend Year 3 abroad, gaining lived experience of using your language skills daily. In Year 4, you will further develop your language and translation skills. You will also take courses in specific topics or approaches to Arabic literature, Islamic and Middle Eastern studies, and French and Francophone studies.

How a joint degree programme works

You will study both Arabic and French to degree level.

Both subjects are based in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC).

Your teaching will take place in and around the LLC buildings in the University's Central Area.

On your Year Abroad, you will complete assignments for both subjects while using your language skills daily.

Programme rankings

  • 3rd in the UK for Modern Languages
  • 3rd in the UK in the broad subject area of Arts & Humanities

Rankings from QS World Rankings by Subject 2025

Programme benefits

  • Learn in an historic city where Arabic has been taught since the 18th century, and French since 1894.
  • Study over four years, including one abroad.
  • Become fluent in two of the world's most widely spoken languages.
  • Join societies related to what you are studying.
  • Delve into fantastic libraries and collections.
  • Try your hand at creative writing and publishing.

Edinburgh gained a special place in my heart and will always be home to me. I love the city’s dynamic blend of old and new: the architecture steeped in history, and numerous landmarks with stunning views of the city. Even better, the beautiful community of kind and friendly people, always willing to help.

Zara Arabic and French MA (Hons), 2021

Find your entry requirements

Use the dropdowns to find out your entry requirements.

  1. Select the country where you are studying or where you studied your qualification.
  2. Select the qualification you are studying or studied.
United Kingdom,

Tuition fees for MA (Hons) Arabic and French

View the tuition fees for one academic year of MA (Hons) Arabic and French.

Tuition fees for this programme

Additional costs

As long as international travel is possible, Year 3 will involve time abroad, both in the Middle East and in a country where French is spoken. The costs you have to pay will depend on where you decide to go, and how you spend your time.

Some study placements at language schools may charge a fee, but we will normally refund you for tuition costs as long as your activity has been approved.

You will be responsible for associated travel costs such as flights and visas.

Accommodation and living costs

You need to cover your accommodation and living costs for the duration of your programme.

We estimate that a single student can potentially spend a maximum of £920 to £2,257 on living costs each month, depending on your accommodation.

This estimate covers the costs of:

  • accommodation
  • food
  • utility bills
  • travel within Edinburgh
  • health and wellbeing costs

See a breakdown of living costs

Scholarships and funding

Funding information

You can find detailed information on financial support available, based on where you are living, in our funding section.

Funding

What you will study

Arabic
Language courses

You will study elementary Arabic to learn basic grammar and develop your vocabulary.

You will learn to read and write using Arabic script, and to speak confidently in Arabic about a range of topics.

You do not currently need to know any Arabic, as Year 1 courses are designed for beginners. However, if you do have prior experience of Arabic, you may be eligible for a partial or full exemption from Arabic language study this year.

Discursive courses

You will take courses in:

  • Islamic History - a survey of the formation of the Islamic world, from its pre-islamic origins to the foundation of the first Muslim world empire
  • Modern Middle Eastern History - an introduction to the Middle East's political, economic, social and cultural history from 1950 until the present day
French

If you have a limited knowledge of French, you will take French 1A, an intensive language course that also introduces you to French culture.

If you have studied French beyond National 5 (SQA) or GCSE level, you will typically take French 1B. As well as developing your written and spoken language skills, this course focuses on modern French literature, culture and civilisation.

You will explore aspects of French culture through literature, cinema and significant social and political events from the Second World War to the 21st century.

Topics covered include: 

  • resistance and collaboration 
  • the Fifth Republic
  • colonisation and decolonisation
  • May 1968
  • feminism
Find Year 1 courses (2024-2025 academic year)

Arabic

You will continue with your Arabic language study, developing the grammar and vocabulary to communicate effectively during your Year Abroad.

Our Year 2 Arabic language course focuses on the main linguistic skills:

  • reading
  • writing
  • speaking
  • listening

You will also choose between courses in:

  • the religion of Islam - an exploration of the religion's branches, key texts, central beliefs and rituals
  • Islamic and Middle Eastern Cultures - an introduction to the literary, aesthetic and intellectual culture of the Middle East, from the eve of Islam to the modern period
French

You will further develop your language skills in French, including in writing, translation and grammar. You'll gain confidence speaking in French on a variety of topics relating to contemporary France and the Francophone world.

You will take a course in French and Francophone literature and culture. This course will introduce you to some of the most important authors at key points in French and Francophone literary and cultural history, from the 12th to the 21st century.

You will study work by writers such as Montaigne, Racine, Molière and Baudelaire, alongside texts that have been considered marginal to French culture due to gender or colonial politics.

Option course

You will complete your Year 2 studies with an option course.

You can choose from a great selection of options in European languages and cultures that explore literature, film and theatre in themed and comparative contexts.

Typical option courses include: 

  • Cultural Responses to War
  • Migration, Exile, Diaspora 
  • Crime and Detection in Literature 
  • Gender and Culture 
  • The Coming-of-Age Narrative 
  • Introduction to European Cinema 
  • Dynamics of Language and Power 
  • Languages Beyond University

Alternatively, you can opt to take a course in the Politics and Institutions of Contemporary France, to learn the fundamentals of the Basque language, or explore Basque culture.

Find Year 2 courses (2024-2025 academic year)

You will spend Year 3 abroad, dividing your time between two countries. This is when you will really deepen your knowledge of Arabic and French by speaking them daily and immersing yourself in local cultures.

Living abroad will also give you the wider perspective, experience and skills to embrace the opportunities and challenges of life after university.

How much time will I spend abroad?

You will spend a minimum of 30 weeks abroad. You will divide your time between a country in which Arabic is spoken and one in which French is spoken.

To give you a balanced experience, you will spend at least eight weeks in each of your two destinations. How you further divide your time abroad is normally based on where you study, or whether you're combining study for Arabic with work for French.

Where can I go?

Transforming classroom learning into lived experience, you will study or work in countries where Arabic or French is spoken.

For Arabic, we currently offer four destinations in the Arabic-speaking world in which to study at an approved institution.

For French, we currently have exchange places in universities in France, Belgium and Switzerland.

A work placement for French is another way to gain an international perspective, build professional networks and prepare you for your career after university.

If you are considering working abroad, it is possible to do so in one of several countries in which French is spoken. The first step is to start thinking about where you would like to go. Visa requirements and application processes vary between countries, so it is a good idea to find out what documentation you will need and whether you are eligible to get it.

Whatever you decide to do, your time abroad is a chance for you to evolve and grow beyond Edinburgh. It adds an international dimension to your studies, showing future employers that you are open to new ideas and experiences.

Coursework while abroad

We will aim to ensure your experience abroad is as beneficial as possible to your final year, as well as to your wider language learning and cultural awareness.

For Arabic, you are likely to have coursework set by your host institution.

Regardless of whether you study or work abroad for French, you will take an e-learning course to prepare you for your Year 4 language courses.

You will also begin preparing for your dissertation while abroad. This can be in either French or Arabic.

Keeping in touch

While you are abroad as part of your programme, you are still a student at the University of Edinburgh.

The Year Abroad Office and your Student Adviser, both based in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC), will check in with you at key points during your time away. Additionally, each language has a dedicated Year Abroad Coordinator for any academic queries, ensuring you are all set and ready for your final year in Edinburgh.

Just like any other time during your studies, you have access to all University services while you are abroad. These include our:

  • Student Wellbeing Service
  • Student Counselling
  • Student Disability and Learning Support
  • University emergency helpline (available 24 hours a day)
Wellbeing and safety

Your wellbeing and safety abroad is our first priority. If international travel is not possible or placements are disrupted, for example following travel advice from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), we will offer you alternative ways to engage with your studies. These will be tailored towards supporting you to meet your learning outcomes and to prepare for your final year.

Find Year 3 courses (2024-2025 academic year)

You will continue to develop your language and translation skills in Arabic and French.

You will also choose from a wide range of specialist, honours-level courses dealing with different aspects of:

  • Arabic literature, either modern or classical
  • Islam and the Middle East
  • Francophone literature and culture

Building on all the knowledge and skills you have developed over four years, including in independent research, you will complete an honours dissertation.

Find Year 4 courses (2024-2025 academic year)

Study abroad

You will spend Year 3 abroad (a minimum of 30 weeks) in countries where either Arabic or French is spoken. You will spend at least eight weeks in each destination.

This is a chance for you to evolve and grow beyond Edinburgh. Our graduates have told us how much the Year Abroad has benefited their broader life experience and skills.

We know that you are likely to have lots of questions about your Year Abroad. We have gone into lots of detail about where you can go and what you can do under ‘Year 3’ above. You can also find out more through the University's Study and Work Away Service.

What are my options for going abroad?

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

University is a place to plan your own goals under expert guidance, study independently and in groups, and reflect upon your learning throughout your degree.

Our approach to learning and teaching is active, inclusive and question-driven, so it may be different to your experiences at school. It will help you gain the skills for life after university, and we will guide you through the steps from one phase to the next.

Depending on the size of your year group, and which option courses you take, your classes will typically fall into three categories:

  • lectures 
  • tutorials
  • seminars

In addition to these classes, and to get the most out of your courses, you will need to read widely.

Lectures

Lectures are taken by all students on a course, typically at the same time. They are delivered as interactive presentations which may involve audio-visual material.

Lectures are given by an experienced academic. They are designed to guide you through the background, questions and debates related to the topic you are studying.

Tutorials

Tutorial groups are smaller. They are also led by an academic, but here the emphasis is more on what you think about the topic yourself. So, tutorials are your chance to discuss and expand upon what you have learned in a lecture.

Language tutorials give you the opportunity to develop your linguistic skills in a range of real-world tasks under the supervision of an experienced language teacher.

These classes typically cover skills such as reading, writing, listening and speaking - all of which involve learning and applying grammar.

Seminars

Seminars blend features of lectures and tutorials. Again, they are designed to encourage and enable your active participation in learning.

On some courses, you will have seminars instead of lectures, especially in Year 4.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a combination of coursework and exams.

Coursework is generally completed throughout the year, while exams take place at the end of a teaching block.

Coursework will take a range of forms to give you the opportunity to practice different skills. For example, you may be asked to:

  • write an essay, review, blog post, opinion piece or learning journal
  • respond to a piece of writing, film, or other media, including through close reading
  • give a short talk or presentation
  • record a podcast or video
  • design a poster or presentation

Exams will include oral exams to test your spoken language skills.

Depending on where you go and what you do during your Year Abroad, Year 3 may include being assessed, in part, by a host university or accredited institution.

In your final year, you will also complete a dissertation.

Support for your studies

As well as the teaching staff and other staff members you will meet day-to-day, there are lots of ways to get help with your learning, including through the University’s Institute for Academic Development (IAD). Peer support schemes bring together students across year groups to help each other with specific study skills, topics or themes.

Where you will study

Study location

When you are on campus, you can expect to spend most of your time in the University of Edinburgh's Central Area - in class, in the library, or in one of the University’s many social and support spaces.

The Central Area is located on the edge of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, surrounded by lots of green space.

Academic facilities

Libraries and collections

The Main University Library holds academic books, journals and databases, films, newspapers and other media. It has over 23,000 resources in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies (IMES), of which around 9,000 printed books and 12,500 e-books are in Arabic, and more than 100 films are in either Arabic or Persian. Its holdings include over 118,500 books and 25,500 journals in French, and a particularly rich collection of French language papers donated by eminent scholars.

The Library is also the home of the University's Centre for Research Collections which brings together:

  • more than 400,000 rare books
  • six kilometres of archives and manuscripts
  • thousands of works of art, historical musical instruments and other objects

Highlights include:

  • The Serjeant and Watt Collections of some 6,400 titles, including works on the history of the Arab world and Arabic literature
  • some of the world’s most precious Islamic manuscripts, such as Rashid al-Din’s History of the World and al-Biruni’s Chronology of Ancient Nations
  • an extensive collection of the Egyptian newspaper al-Ahram al-yawmi (1876-1930)

Many of the University's Special Collections are digitised and available online from our excellent Resource Centre, computing labs and dedicated study spaces in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC).

IMES also has its own library in 19 George Square, with views across a central garden to both the Main University Library and LLC.

Centres for research, teaching and outreach

We have great links with the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World which promotes a better understanding of Islam and Muslim culture locally, nationally and internationally.

Established in 1995, our Centre de recherches francophones belges promotes the teaching of Francophone Belgian literature, and hosts a range of activities for students and the public. Since 2018, the Centre has been partnering with Wallonie-Bruxelles International (WBI) to bring Francophone Belgian culture to the Edinburgh summer festivals.

We also play a key role in the Diaspolinks network, which brings together researchers with a shared interest in the growing field of diaspora studies, especially Anglophone and Francophone diasporas. The international network is unique in comparing the various diasporic communities’ responses to issues of identity, belonging and relocation in the context of British, French and Canadian immigration policies.

Career paths

Skills and experience

Studying languages to degree level demonstrates that you are a good communicator, and someone open to other cultures and new ideas - what employers value as intercultural competence.

Beyond the language skills you will develop, you will also gain a nuanced understanding of other cultures and societies.

Graduating with a four-year Master of Arts degree from the University of Edinburgh shows intellectual maturity, resilience, and flexibility.

The skills you will be able to demonstrate to employers when you graduate include the ability to:

  • understand, analyse and articulate complex issues and concepts
  • manage your time to meet deadlines on different types of projects
  • work independently and as part of a group

Opportunities across sectors

Our programmes are an excellent primer for a range of careers, especially those that place a premium on thinking that is both disciplined and imaginative.

Within the private, public, not-for-profit, and for-benefit sectors, previous graduates have gone on to work in:

  • business, finance, commerce and tech
  • communications, marketing, advertising and public relations
  • education, outreach, advocacy and training
  • journalism, broadcasting and media
  • leisure, tourism and travel
  • politics, policy work, diplomacy, civil service and law
  • publishing, culture, heritage and the arts
  • research, development, consultancy and venture acceleration
  • translating and interpreting

Local and global opportunities

With increasing migration in response to changing global dynamics, there is demand for our graduates in Scotland, the UK and abroad.

Wherever you are based in the world, the ability to communicate in these two global languages, and to understand the cultures to which they open doors, will make you stand out.

If you are keen to work abroad, it’s good to know that, between them, Arabic and French are the common language of over 50 countries in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

They are both among the ten most widely spoken languages in the world and the six official languages of the United Nations.

Careers Service

Throughout your time with us, we will encourage you to identify and hone your employability skills.

Through the University's excellent Careers Service, you can:

  • get careers advice tailored towards languages
  • book one-to-one appointments and practice interviews
  • access a range of online resources
  • attend events and themed fairs such as the Creative and Cultural Careers Festival
  • get help finding work while you study and for around two years after you graduate

The Careers Service is also a partner in Life After LLC, a panel event where you can draw inspiration from recent graduates of programmes in literatures, languages and cultures.

Visit the Careers Service website

Further study

The enhanced research skills you will develop on a four-year programme, particularly in your honours years, are a valuable asset if you wish to continue studying at postgraduate level.

At the University of Edinburgh, we typically offer Masters by Research programmes in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies and in French and Francophone Studies.

Our portfolio of interdisciplinary taught masters programmes typically includes:

  • Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies
  • The Globalised Muslim World
  • Comparative Literature
  • Intermediality
  • Translation Studies

Any of our masters degrees, whether research-based or taught, is a good foundation for a PhD, but is equally of value as a stand-alone qualification.

Graduate profiles

Studying Arabic and French was not just about learning a language, although that was a big part of it. My studies undoubtedly shaped my worldview [and] gave me a wide range of skills that I believe have enabled me to stand out in an ecosystem where humanities students are underrepresented.

- Zara, Arabic and French MA (Hons), 2021

As a final year student, Zara co-founded a venture builder and accelerator to work with companies and universities across Europe translating research and ideas into real-world start-ups. She is now Head of Platform at Emerge Education, a global seed fund investing in founders democratising access to opportunity.

How to apply

You must submit a full application through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) before the relevant deadline.

Guidance on applying through UCAS

What you need to apply

As part of your application, you will need:

  • your academic qualifications
  • a personal statement
  • evidence of your English language skills (with relevant qualifications)
  • a reference

How we select

If you have met, or are predicted to meet, all our entry requirements by the relevant deadline, then your application will go into our selection process.

As part of this selection process, we will review all the information you submit in your UCAS application when we decide who to select for this degree programme.

How we select applicants

When to apply

  • 2026 entry UCAS deadline: 14 January 2026 (6:00pm GMT)

This is the deadline for all UK, EU and international applicants to non-medicine and veterinary medicine programmes.

To find out if any degree programmes have spaces after 14 January 2026, search the University of Edinburgh on the UCAS website.

Search degrees that are open on the UCAS website

Key application dates and deadlines

After you apply

After you have applied for your degree programme, we suggest you have a look at the following information to help you prepare for university:

Applying as an international student

As an international student, you apply for this degree programme through UCAS.  

Find out more about applying through UCAS  

Visas and immigration 

If you do not have the right to live in the UK, you will need to apply for and secure a Student visa before the start date of your degree programme.  

Our Student Immigration Service can help you with the Student visa application process. 

Applying for a visa  

Agents  

An education agent is someone who can help you with the application process as an international student. 

We work with education agents around the world and have a list of local offices you can contact.  

Find contact details for an education agent

What our students say

I think what makes Edinburgh special is that there is so much to do whatever your interests are! Whether you enjoy hiking, relaxing in a café, socialising with friends, or literally anything else, you will never run out of options here.

Minju Kim LLC graduate (2024)

In her final year studying languages at Edinburgh, Minju served as the Undergraduate Representative for the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures. Together with Programme Representatives for Arabic and French, Undergraduate Representatives are your voice in the university - sharing your feedback to continually improve the student experience for everyone. Their roles are supported by the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA).

Accommodation

We guarantee an offer of University accommodation for all new, single undergraduate students from outside Edinburgh. To be eligible, you need to meet all criteria and apply for accommodation by 16 August in the year of your entry to the University.

University accommodation website

Accommodation guarantee criteria

If you prefer to live elsewhere, we can offer you advice on finding accommodation in Edinburgh.

Accommodation information from the Edinburgh University Students' Association Advice Place

Societies and clubs

The Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) supports more than 300 student-led societies and clubs. It also promotes opportunities with local charities through its volunteering centre.

From making friends in language cafes to campaigning on global issues, these student-led groups offer lots of ways to explore your subjects, interests and talents socially.

The University's accreditation as a University of Sanctuary, the first in Scotland, has given a number of our students the chance to engage with displaced speakers of Arabic.

Examples include students tutoring and providing peer support to teenage Syrian refugees living in Edinburgh, a project which won an Outstanding Global Citizenship Impact Award and a Sir William Darling Memorial Prize.

We publish creative writing in nine European languages - including French - in our online magazine, Babble. You can get involved in the editorial committee, and launch nights typically include readings and performances.

The French theatre society - Les Escogriffes - typically stages a play in French each year, with opportunities to direct, act, produce and promote.

Les Escogriffes is such a fun way to meet people learning and speaking French, and it is such a great creative outlet. We are silly, we play theatre and improv games, and you don’t need prior experience speaking French or doing theatre. You can perform or work behind the scenes of a production, and feel super proud of what you have achieved, making friends along the way!

Freya French and History graduate (2024) and President of Les Escogriffes during her time at Edinburgh

The city of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a world-leading festival city filled with cinemas, theatres, galleries, libraries and collections.

The city's resources for studying literatures, languages and cultures are exceptional, and its world cinema scene is particularly strong.

Many national collections are located close to the University's Central Area, making them easy to access between classes. Highlights include the National Library of Scotland, which has one of the best French collections in the UK.

There is plenty to see and do throughout the year, including a rich programme of cultural events at the nearby Institut français d'Écosse.

As well as the city's main summer festivals, the Edinburgh French Film Festival and Africa in Motion bring the latest and best Francophone and Arabic-language cinema to Edinburgh each winter. There are also various food festivals.

Find out more about living in Edinburgh

Health and wellbeing support

You will have access to free health and wellbeing services throughout your time at university if you need them.

The support services we offer include:

  • a student counselling service
  • a health centre (doctor's surgery)
  • support if you're living in University accommodation
  • dedicated help and support if you have a disability or need adjustment

Health and wellbeing support services

Contact us

Contact us through our enquiry team if you have any questions about this programme.

Open days, events and visits

Find out when our next open days will be taking place

Open days, events and visits

Chat to our students on Unibuddy

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