Arabic and French - MA (Hons)

The University of Edinburgh

Arabic and French make a natural combination. Interaction between the two languages and cultures has taken place over many centuries and continues in the present day. This interaction is reflected as much in the cinema and music of contemporary Europe and North Africa as in the Chansons de Gestes of medieval times. Arabic is the main language of more than 250 million people in a huge swathe of land extending from the Atlantic to the Persian Gulf. Apart from opening the door to a fascinating and varied region, knowledge of Arabic provides access to the rich intellectual heritage of Islam. French is the main language of about 100 million people, and is widely spoken in North America, North and West Africa and the Caribbean, as well as in Belgium and in France itself. The School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures at the University of Edinburgh is recognised in the UK and internationally as a leading institution for research and study of Arabic, Islam and the Middle East. Students studying Arabic and French will also benefit from our resources and our excellent record in teaching and research. A year spent studying Arabic and French abroad provides complete immersion in both languages.