PhD in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

University of Cambridge

This PhD degree is offered at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies to students who wish to study Chinese Studies, East Asian Studies, Korean Studies, Japanese Studies, Hebrew Studies, and Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies (Arabic or Persian). Our researchers are engaged in internationally recognised work in the history, literature, linguistics, social anthropology, sociology, politics, and contemporary culture of the Middle East, North Africa, China, Japan, and the two Koreas. In addition, the work of several staff members crosses traditional boundaries, both geographical and subject-based. Please see our Research pages for more information about the kind of research carried out by the Faculty. Before you apply, it is essential that you contact your prospective Supervisor to discuss your proposed research. The PhD in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies is a three to four-year course consisting of individual supervision and guided research. Students are given guidance in areas specific to their subject and in advanced research methods. In the third term (Easter) of the first year, students submit a PhD progress examination, which usually consists of a critical essay and a general statement about progress to date and the likely course of their future research. At the end of the programme, students submit a PhD thesis, followed by a viva (oral examination). Further information about the programme and the supervisors can be found on our Faculty's website.