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Faculty of PhilosophySemitic Studies – Bachelor 50%

Semitic studies involves linguistic research of the Semitic languages, from the first written records of these languages dated 2600 BC, to the present day. The area in which these languages are spoken extends across three continents, ranging from the Atlantic in the West to Uzbekistan and Afghanistan in the East, and from the Mediterranean to Ethiopia. 

Facts & Formalities

DegreeBachelor of Arts
Type of programmeUndergraduate
Start of programmeWinter semester only
Standard period of study6 semesters
Language(s) of instructionGerman and others
Fees and contributions151.05 € / Semester
Application procedureSubjects with no admission restrictions
Application deadlinesInformation about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program.
Part-time optionYes

Course Content

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Semitic Studies with a 50% weighting focusses on the study of at least two Semitic languages (Arabic, Aramaic). Graduates of the degree programme possess solid, fundamental knowledge of spoken and written Arabic, as well as Syriac. In addition, they gain significant insight into the Arab-Islamic culture, and Christianity in the Near East, and will have a comprehensive overview of key methods within linguistics. 

Course Structure

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Semitic Studies with a weighting of 50% consists in three introductory modules and one advanced module. At the beginning of the course, students complete an introductory module which introduces them to the Semitic languages and methods of contemporary linguistics. At the same time, students complete a second introductory module in which they gain solid, fundamental knowledge of spoken Arabic and gain insight into the Islamic religion and culture. Following completion of these two modules, students learn written Arabic and further extend their knowledge of Arabic dialectology. In parallel, they complete a module in which they study Syriac, attend reading courses in which they develop their language skills, and complete an introduction to Syriac studies. A further seminar focussing on Semitic philology gives students the opportunity to acquire basic knowledge of an additional Semitic language.