Overview:
The European and Middle Eastern Languages (EMEL) course at Oxford allows students to combine studies in a European language with Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish. This combination also allows students to capitalise on cultural connections between these languages.
Oxford’s rich resources, like the Bodleian Library and Taylor Institution Library, also support this interdisciplinary approach. During the second year, students often study abroad in the Middle East, further enhancing language skills and cultural understanding.
Summer opportunities and funding options are also available to bolster language competency and provide financial support.
| UCAS Code | See course combinations |
| Minimum Entrance Requirements | A-levels – AAA Advanced Highers – AA/AAB IB – 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL |
| Admission Test for European and Middle Eastern Languagesat Oxford | MLAT (Modern Languages Admissions Tests) Test date: 20 October 2023 Registration deadline: 29 September 2023 |
| Subject Requirements for European and Middle Eastern Languagesat Oxford | A modern language (depending on course choice) is Essential. |
| Extras things admission tutors look for | Written Work: 2 pieces Candidates must submit the same written work for the European language as for Modern Languages. No written work is required for the Middle Eastern language. Submission deadline: 10 November 2023 |
| Duration | 4 years with a year abroad (BA) |
| Admissions Statistics | Interviewed: 91% Successful: 38% |
| What are European and Middle Eastern Languages at Oxford? | The European and Middle Eastern Languages (EMEL) course at Oxford offers students a unique opportunity to combine their studies in a European language with languages like Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish. By doing so, students gain a deep understanding of cultural connections and historical linkages between these languages. Additionally, students benefit from a second-year study abroad experience in the Middle East, enhancing their language proficiency and cultural immersion. The course also encourages students to spend summers in language-speaking countries for internships or language courses, while financial support ensures their accessibility to these valuable experiences. |
| What Colleges Offer this course? | Brasenose College, Christ Church, Jesus College, Magdalen College, New College, Pembroke College, The Queen’s College, St Anne’s College, St Hilda’s College, St Hugh’s College, St John’s College, Somerville College, University College, Wadham College, Worcester College |
| Structure of the European and Middle Eastern Languages Course at Oxford | Year 1 European languages: Two language papers One literature paper Middle Eastern language: Intensive language learning Five written papers; plus oral/aural examination (Arabic only) Year 2 spent abroad Year 3 & 4 Practical language work in European & Middle Eastern Languages Period of literature and further paper chosen from a wide range of options in the European language There are also three papers, including literature and a range of options in the Middle Eastern language Extended essay on a topic bridging the European and the Middle Eastern language Nine written papers, including a bridging extended essay; oral exam (both languages, but not Hebrew on the Middle Eastern side) |
| Common Careers after this course | Graduates of European and Middle Eastern Languages at Oxford secure opportunities in Law, Finance, Commerce, Management Consultancy, Accountancy, Media, Advertising, The Foreign Office, The Arts. |
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