Semitic Studies

Freie Universität · Berlin, Germany

Level
Master's
Award
Master of Arts
Language
English
Duration
4 semesters
Study mode
Full-time
Campus
Berlin
Apply by
Register by 15 August 2026 + 1 more
Starts
Winter and summer semester

Freie Universität does not publish a fee for this programme on its own. Its published rate for master's programmes is €0 a year for international students.

Entry requirements and how to apply

Entry requirements
To be eligible for the MA in Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, applicants must meet the following requirements: 1. Educational Background A professionally qualifying Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university. The degree must include at least 60 credit points (CP) in Semitic Studies or related fields. This includes courses on: Semitic languages and cultures, the history and present of the Christian Orient and other non-Muslim minorities. 2. Language Requirements: For the German and English requirement, please see below; for further language requirements please visit our website . 3. Evaluation of Foreign Degrees The Examination Board of the Department of History and Cultural Studies at Freie Universität Berlin evaluates whether applicants’ degrees meet the requirements. Upon request, the equivalence of foreign degrees can be assessed before the application process.
English language requirement
C1 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.: PTE Academic: 76 UNIcert® English: UNIcert® III Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced TOEFL iBT (since 2026): 5 Reading: 5 Listening: 5 Speaking: 5 Writing: 5 TOEFL iBT Home Edition (before 2026): 95 Reading: 24 Listening: 22 Speaking: 25 Writing: 24 TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 95 Reading: 24 Listening: 22 Speaking: 25 Writing: 24 IELTS Academic: 7
German language requirement
No minimum language level required
Application period
The following is valid for applicants from: all countries For the winter semester: until 15 August The following is valid for applicants from: all countries For the summer semester: until 15 February
Apply through
• uni-assist • Website

About this programme

What makes this programme unique is its strong emphasis on modern Semitic languages and its focus on religious minorities in the West Asia and North Africa. Students engage with cutting-edge international research in Semitic Studies, preparing for careers in academia, cultural institutions, international organisations, and other fields related to the region. The programme fosters interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments at Freie Universität Berlin, as well as with partner universities and institutions in Germany and beyond that specialise in Semitic Studies and the Christian Orient. Additionally, it maintains strong connections with Semitic-speaking communities in Berlin. Semitic Studies at the Institute of Semitic Studies is actively involved in major research initiatives, including the Berlin Graduate School Muslim Cultures and Societies. The programme also benefits from Berlin’s extensive network of institutions focused on the WANA region, including: The Pergamon Museum, home to the Museum of the Ancient Near East and the Museum of Islamic Art The Egyptian Museum, housing invaluable artifacts from ancient Egypt The Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation’s State Library, with its renowned Oriental Department (including the Turfan Collection) The House of World Cultures, a leading centre for global arts and cultural exchange The MA in Semitic Studies offers a diverse selection of courses covering Semitic languages, linguistics, and cultural history. Students can

Related pages

Other degree programmes at Freie Universität