Introduction to the Advanced Diploma in Hebrew Studies

The Advanced Diploma in Hebrew Studies is a nine-month graduate qualification that provides instruction in the Hebrew language for students with a first degree whose knowledge of the language is at an intermediate or lower intermediate level at the time of entry. The objective of the course is to bring their knowledge up to an advanced level.

Course Structure and Assessment

The Diploma consists of three taught modules, which are assessed by written and oral examinations at the end of the course. These modules are:

• Paper 1: Classical Hebrew language, assessed by one written examination paper, including translation and grammatical parsing questions.
• Paper 2: Modern Hebrew language, assessed by one written examination paper, including translation and grammatical parsing questions, and an oral examination in Modern spoken Hebrew.
• Paper 3: Either (i) History of the Hebrew language or (ii) introductory Aramaic, assessed by essay questions or a written examination paper, including translation and grammatical parsing questions, respectively.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be expected to:

• Read Classical Hebrew texts with a good understanding of the grammatical structure of the language and its vocabulary.
• Read and speak Modern Hebrew with good fluency and understanding.
• Have a good scholarly knowledge of the history of the language or extend their language skills to include a knowledge of Aramaic up to a preliminary level.

Skills and Other Attributes

The course aims to equip students with:

• Understanding of scholarly bibliographical tools and digital resources.
• Knowledge of the production of medieval Hebrew manuscripts.
• Presentation skills.

Continuation to MPhil Programme

Continuation from the Advanced Diploma in Hebrew Studies to an MPhil programme in the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies is not automatic. Interested students will be required to submit an MPhil application, including a workable and relevant research proposal, and demonstrate that they have the required academic knowledge and skills to carry out their project. They must also obtain at least 65 per cent overall in their Advanced Diploma and satisfy the admissions requirements set for the MPhil.

Admission Criteria

Admission is at the discretion of the Degree Committee, which judges each applicant on their own merits and in accordance with its own set of rules and regulations. The prospective MPhil supervisor may also set additional admissions criteria.

Course Details

• Duration: 9 months full-time
• Study Mode: Taught
• Award: Advanced Diploma
• Faculty: Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

Key Dates

• Applications open: September 3, 2025
• Application deadline: May 14, 2026
• Course starts: October 1, 2026
• Funding deadlines:
  • Course Funding Deadline: December 3, 2025
  • Gates Cambridge US round only: October 15, 2025

Similar Courses

• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies PhD
• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Modern Middle Eastern Studies) MPhil
• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew and Semitic Studies) MPhil
• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Hebrew and Pre-Modern Jewish History and Culture) MPhil
• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Muslim-Jewish Relations) MPhil

University of Cambridge

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Overview:

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious public research university located in Cambridge, England. It is one of the world's leading academic institutions, known for its high-quality teaching and research. The university is comprised of 31 constituent colleges, each with its own unique character and traditions.

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