University of Exeter United Kingdom

MA Kurdish Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Kurdish Studies at the University of Exeter offers you a unique opportunity to centre the history, politics, and culture of the Kurds and Kurdistan, fields often overlooked. This specialised postgraduate programme is designed for students eager to critically engage with the complexities of the Middle East, exploring the evolution of Kurdish studies and its broader academic context. You will delve into major historical events, political movements, and cultural expressions, developing a nuanced understanding of this vital region and its global significance, preparing you for advanced research and informed discourse.

Studied full-time on campus over one year, you will tailor your MA by selecting from a range of compulsory and optional modules, including core subjects like "The Kurds: History and Politics" and "Theorising the Middle East," alongside specialized electives. Your studies will culminate in an MA Dissertation, where you will conduct independent research, leveraging the University of Exeter's rich library and archival resources. You will graduate with valuable expertise in Kurdish studies and the wider Middle East, opening doors to careers in international relations, policy, education, and further academic pursuits.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Kurdish Studies program offers a comprehensive exploration of Kurdish history, politics, and culture. Students will engage with core modules on the Kurds and Middle Eastern theory, alongside developing essential dissertation skills. A wide array of optional modules allows for specialization in areas such as Middle Eastern state and society, Iranian history, Islamic thought, gender politics, and international relations, with specific attention to Kurdish studies and critical readings.

1 Compulsory modules

The Kurds: History and Politics
Theorising the Middle East
Dissertation skills
MA Dissertation

2 Optional modules

State and Society in the Middle East
Iranian History, 1500 - the Present
Islam in Practice
Independent Reading Course - Sem 1
Independent Reading Course - Sem 2
Nationalisms in the Middle East
International Relations of the Middle East
The Palestine Question: Past and Present
Gender and Politics in the Middle East
Oral History: Principles and Practice
Gender, Sexuality and Violence in Palestine/Israel
Contemporary History and Politics of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula
Sociology and Anthropology of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula
Politics and Economics of the Middle East
Critical Readings in Kurdish Studies
Rethinking Palestine: Critical Readings
Theorising Islam
The Sovereign, the Good, and Society in Islamic Thought
Esotericism and the Magical Tradition
Texts and Traditions in Islamic Intellectual History
Arabic Language 1
Arabic Language 2

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

39% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsBorder Control & Immigration EnforcementConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsCrop Production & FarmingEconomic Research & PolicyEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionHigher Education & UniversitiesMedia Planning & BuyingQuality Assurance & Testing

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte UK

EXPOSE

European commission

J.P Morgan Chase Co.

University of Exeter

University of Southampton

Why Study MA Kurdish Studies at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Kurdish Studies at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, scores vary by test: Duolingo needs an overall score of 120, IELTS requires a minimum score of 6.5, and TOEFL has a minimum overall score of 90.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as researchers, policy advisors, cultural analysts, or educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on the history, politics, and culture of the Kurds and Kurdistan. It allows for tailored research using unique archival holdings and engages with the evolution of Kurdish studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Kurdish Studies course has an intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application materials ahead of this date.
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