Politics and Society of the Contemporary Middle East - Master of Science programme

This programme provides you with a deep social-scientific knowledge of the Middle East of today. The social-scientific focus of the programme means that you will learn how to apply various theories and research methods to current events and debates in and about the region. You will study the populations, societies, politics and recent history of these countries. You will learn about the various factors that shape the Middle East. This includes topics like political systems, social and economic conditions, role of religion, nationalism, authoritarianism, activism, cultural and gender issues, to name a few. The programme also examines contemporary developments in the region in relation to diasporic communities and transnational connections.

The medium of instruction is English, and you will complete examinations and the master's thesis in English. Our teaching methods are closely connected to ongoing research in Middle Eastern Studies, combining lectures, seminars, and personalised supervision. You will also have opportunities to engage with researchers and research networks connected to the programme. The programme emphasises practical experience. You will do independent fieldwork and academic peer review. 

Experience the opportunities in Lund

Lund University provides a vibrant environment where you have the opportunity to participate in activities beyond your program, for example, attend seminars and cultural events at the Center of Advanced Middle Eastern Studies (CMES), learn Arabic and other languages spoken in the Middle East. 

Degree 

After completing the programme, you will acquire a Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) with a major in Middle Eastern Studies. 

Career 

After your studies you will be able to get a professional career in areas such as:  

• diplomacy 
• aid and development work 
• work linked to migration, integration and societal development 
• educational, journalistic and cultural work with a connection to the Middle Eastern and diasporic contexts. 

The programme also provides a good basis for third-cycle studies if you are interested in an academic career. 

Entry requirements

A Bachelor’s degree with a major (i.e. at least 90 ECTS credits) in a Social Sciences discipline or in History, Area Studies or equivalent. English course 6/English level 2 (advanced proficiency).

Selection criteria

The applicant’s estimated capacity to complete the programme is the primary criterion for selection. Students are selected on the basis of their previous study results (grades on courses and thesis in the bachelor’s degree), proficiency in English and a statement of purpose. Of these selection criteria, previous academic performance carries the most weight.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 270,000
First payment: SEK 67,500

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

Lund University Global Scholarship Programme

The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.

Lund University Global Scholarship

African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship

Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities. 

ARUA Scholarship

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden. 

Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website 

Country-specific scholarships and funding options

Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.

Country-specific scholarships

External scholarships

In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries. 

External scholarships