MA/MS in Asia and Middle East Studies

Develop advanced competencies and knowledge in language and cultures, societies, histories of Asia and the Middle East.Develop your understanding of the regionExplore the fascinating regions of Asia and the Middle East, through the Masters programme in Asian and Middle East Studies. UiO is the only university in Norway that offers this higher degree combination of Asian and Middle Eastern language and area studies. This programme offers you the flexibility to specialize in a field of your choice, whether it be politics and society, studies of religion, or literature and language-based studies in Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Persian, or Turkish.When you apply to the study programme, you choose whether to specialize in Chinese Culture and Society, Japanese studies, or Middle East studies.You will engage in in-depth studies and analysis of topics crucial for understanding contemporary Chinese, Japanese, or Middle Eastern societies, such as political and ideological developments, the cultural expressions and tensions produced by modernization and globalization, and the important, contested, and diverse roles of religion.Choose one of the following programme optionsLearn more about the programme options following these links:Chinese Culture and SocietyJapanese StudiesMiddle East StudiesRefine your academic skillsDuring the first year, you will receive training in relevant research methodologies for the study of Chinese Culture and Society, Japan or the Middle East, develop your master's thesis plan, and acquire relevant digital skills. You will also explore academic literature relevant to your thesis and choose two elective courses on selected topics in your programme option.In your third semester, you can choose between three programme options: studying abroad at a university in Asia or the Middle East, undertaking an internship with an organization, business, or foreign affairs office in Asia or the Middle East, or combining data collection with training on how to communicate research results to a broader audience.Altogether the programme will equip you with the skills necessary to understand an area of crucial importance. To that end, you will be trained in the use of relevant theories and methodologies in the field of contemporary Asia and Middle East Studies. Additionally, the programme emphasizes the active use of regional languages, thereby enhancing your language skills.Specialize in a field of your choiceThe work on the master's thesis is a central part of the study programme, where you receive guidance from a specialist within this field. You will select the topic of your thesis during the first semester and dedicate the fourth and final semester exclusively to the thesis work.The master's thesis is an independent, self-chosen research project designed to demonstrate your knowledge of the research field and contribute to the academic literature. Through this process, you will develop your analytical skills and learn to formulate and address a research question. Additionally, throughout the writing process, you will gain valuable experience in giving and receiving feedback from your peers.You will be part of a dynamic research environment. Among our faculty, you will find a unique community of scholars on the cutting edge of international research on a wide range of issues.Engage in student life activitiesAs a student in the master`s programme, you will be a part of a smaller group of students and through the coursework and seminars, you become a tight-knit group. Throughout the programme, you will engage in discussions, collaborate on teaching activities, and peer-review each other's work. In the first semester, you will participate in an intensive two-day seminar, where you will get to know each other and explore your specific academic interests.You are encouraged to participate in events organized by the student association, including the end-of-semester parties held for all students.Student Associations for Chinese StudiesStudent Association for Japanese StudiesStudent Associations for Middle East StudiesAdditionally, the department provides a reading room exclusively for master's students, offering a space where you can collaborate and engage with your peers.Reading Room for Master's Students in the DepartmentPursue a career focused on global issuesAsia and Middle East studies make you qualified for positions requiring advanced language and cultural knowledge about this region. This may be within public administration, international businesses, or humanitarian organizations.Previous graduates have found employment in teaching, cultural, and consultancy services, public service, embassies, and consulates. Some have developed careers in the region, while others work in various sectors in Norway. Furthermore, you qualify for advanced research at the doctoral level in Asia and Middle East studies and other humanities disciplines.Doctoral degree: PhD in the HumanitiesExpand your expertise with an Honours CertificateDo you seek additional academic challenges? As a student at the University of Oslo, you have the opportunity to supplement your master's degree with an Honours Certificate. The certificate accounts for 20 credits, which you take in addition to other courses in your master's degree. This is a unique opportunity to work interdisciplinarily, build networks, and gain new perspectives on your field of study.This study programme has the following programme options:Chinese Culture and SocietyJapanese StudiesMiddle East Studies