Qassim University

What you'll study

The MA combines taught modules and a research thesis to build advanced knowledge of historical methods, historiography and civilisation studies with a focus on the Arabian Peninsula and the wider Islamic world. Students follow core courses in research methodology and historiography alongside specialised options that reflect the department's strengths.

• Core modules: Research Methods in History; Historiography and Theory; Approaches to Civilization Studies; Archive and Source Criticism.
• Regional and thematic modules: Early and Medieval Islamic History; Modern Middle Eastern History; History of the Arabian Peninsula; Ottoman and Near Eastern Studies; Social and Cultural History of Islam.
• Optional modules / electives: Public History and Heritage Management; Oral History and Ethnography; Economic and Environmental History; Gender and Society in Islamic Contexts; Digital Methods in Historical Research.
• Research thesis: A substantial supervised dissertation based on original research, making use of primary sources, archives or fieldwork where appropriate.

Teaching is typically a mix of seminars, lectures, research workshops and one-to-one supervision. Assessment is by essays, presentations, coursework and the final thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good bachelor's degree in history or a closely related discipline (such as archaeology, Islamic studies, or social sciences). Admissions consider the applicant's academic transcript, a statement of purpose or research proposal, and references.

• Academic qualification: Bachelor’s degree in history or a related subject from a recognised university.
• Research proposal / statement of purpose: A clear outline of proposed research interests or study objectives relevant to the programme.
• References: Academic references that attest to the applicant’s suitability for postgraduate research.
• Language requirements: Proficiency in the language of instruction; applicants whose first language is not the programme language may need to demonstrate competence through recognised language qualifications or prior study.
• Additional requirements: Departments may invite candidates for interview and may request samples of previous written work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in History and Civilization pursue a range of careers in the public, private and academic sectors. The programme prepares students for roles that require strong research, analytical and communication skills.

• Academic and doctoral research positions, and teaching at secondary or tertiary levels.
• Work in museums, archives, libraries and cultural heritage organisations, including conservation and curation roles.
• Positions in government, cultural ministries and institutions concerned with heritage policy, regional studies and international cultural relations.
• Roles in publishing, media, research consultancies, and heritage tourism that value historical expertise.
• Further study leading to a PhD for those aiming at an academic or specialist professional career.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University offers a department with expertise in regional and Islamic history and access to local archives and heritage sites in the central Saudi context, which benefits students focusing on Arabian Peninsula studies. The university provides structured supervision, research facilities and opportunities for fieldwork and archival research relevant to civilisation studies.

• Local and regional resources: Proximity to historical sites and regional archives that support primary-source research.
• Expert supervision: Faculty with research profiles in Islamic, Arabian and modern Middle Eastern history.
• Research support: Access to university libraries, workshops and research seminars to develop methodological skills.
• Career links: Connections with cultural institutions, museums and government bodies interested in heritage and education.