Subjects

Asian & Middle Eastern Studies

What makes the Cambridge Asian and Middle Eastern Studies course so special?

The teaching provided by the Faculty of Asian & Middle Eastern Studies covers a wide range of ancient and modern languages which have flourished in Asia and the Middle East during the last 5000 years or more (Akkadian, Arabic, Aramaic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese, and Persian) and also the literature, history, politics, philosophy, religion and art of these widely differing cultures.

The intensive language learning during the first three years encourages a high degree of fluency in the dedicated student. The required time abroad during the third year allows students to develop their language skills and to immerse themselves in a different culture and environment. The dissertation (a requirement for most, but not all courses) allows students to develop their interests, engage with primary sources and produce original work. 
 

Why Newnham for Asian and Middle Eastern Studies?

How many students take Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Newnham and what options do they choose?

How will I be taught at Newnham?

Course lectures and seminars are faculty based. For college supervisions, given the small student numbers, you are likely to be in a small group (2-3) including students from other colleges. Supervisions may take place at Newnham, in the Faculty building, or at one of the other colleges.
 

Can you tell me more about the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Fellows?

• Dr Kate Daniels is Director of Studies and Special Supervisor with expertise in modern Arabic literature, language and society.

• Dr Kate Fleet is Director of the Skilliter Centre and specializes in Ottoman history.

What jobs do Newnham Asian and Middle Eastern Studies students go on to do?

Recent graduates have gone on to Masters’ degrees and PhD research, and into business, advertising and journalism.

Are there any A-level subjects that are particularly useful?

Any foreign language is positive, although Indo-European languages will not be of direct relevance. Many successful students have studied classical or modern languages, literature or history at school, although any combination of three A-levels is normally acceptable. Mathematics can be complementary, as complex mathematical structures and proofs have deep links with grammar.

Since Middle Eastern and Asian languages are not generally taught in schools, all the courses start from the beginner’s level. The courses do not demand any particular type of intellectual training.   Motivation and willingness for hard work are essential: the courses are intensive, and the learning of complex languages and unfamiliar scripts requires concentrated application and regular attendance at lectures. 

Can I take a gap year?

Yes; this is an intensive course and many students benefit from a gap year away from examinations before plunging in to academic life for the next four years. Time spent in a country in Asia or the Middle East can be beneficial, and should give you a slight advantage in language learning during the first year at university.
 

How should I prepare for interview at Newnham?

Be yourself; don’t try to memorise answers to possible questions, but think about why you are enthusiastic about Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and be prepared to impart this to the interviewers. Given the range of subjects in the faculty, you will probably be faced with two interviewers, one a specialist in the subject you wish to read, the other the Director of Studies (who may be in a different subject).
 

Where can I find out more?

For the most recent course information, see the Faculty website.
For details of courses on the Ancient Near East and Egypt, see information on the Human, Social & Political Sciences Tripos.

Take a look at the profiles of  some AMES undergraduates and a former student.