Arabic and Business MA (Hons) Undergraduate Degree at the University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom

The University of Edinburgh's Arabic and Business MA (Hons) is a four-year undergraduate joint-honours programme combining Arabic language and Middle Eastern cultural study with business education. The programme is based in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures and the University of Edinburgh Business School, both located in the University's Central Area.

Students develop a thorough grounding in classical and modern Arabic, with training in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Learning is connected to original materials such as Arabic novels, newspapers and television, alongside study of the history, societies, cultures and politics of the Middle East and the wider Arabic-speaking world. Beginners are supported from the first year, while students with previous experience may be able to receive exemptions from introductory language courses.

The Business component explores the social, political, environmental and cultural challenges facing contemporary businesses, governments and not-for-profit organisations. Students develop competencies in authentic leadership, ethical and sustainable business behaviour, entrepreneurial practice and effective communication. Business learning may include business planning, feasibility analysis, case studies, consultancy work, data interpretation and analysis, and the use of specialist business laboratories, software and databases.

The degree is structured to provide both breadth and specialisation. The first two years are pre-honours years with core and optional courses across the arts, humanities and social sciences. Year 3 is a mandatory study-abroad year of at least 30 weeks in a country where Arabic is spoken, allowing students to use Arabic daily and gain lived experience of Arabic and Middle Eastern culture while completing work for both subjects. In the final year, students can develop interests in Arabic literature, Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies, business and translation, and may complete a dissertation.

Teaching takes place through lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer laboratories, with assessment through coursework, examinations, oral language exams and applied business tasks. Students have access to the Main University Library, extensive Arabic and Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies collections, the Centre for Research Collections, dedicated language study facilities, the Business School's teaching labs and the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World. The programme also offers opportunities to join business societies, attend events and access peer support and careers guidance.

Graduates combine language proficiency, intercultural competence, business knowledge and analytical skills for careers in finance, strategy, innovation, marketing, human resources, data analytics, communications, diplomacy, journalism, policy, translation, consultancy and related sectors.