Entry requirements
Selected entry requirements English language: Candidates must be proficient in the English language, which is the language of instruction and examination at the university. Acceptable English Language qualifications include IELTS 6.5, CPE grade C, CAE Grade B or another equivalent A level: Grades BBB preferably to include a modern foreign language at A2, AS or GCSE level. AS level: Two AS-Levels may be accepted in place of the third A-Level. Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications. Unit grades will not normally form part of offer conditions, except for Mathematics programmes. GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language. Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification. However, as the opportunities to take these modules are not open to all applicants, currently this is not an essential requirement of the University. International baccalaureate: 32 points overall preferably to include a modern foreign language at higher or standard level Additional entry requirements Additional entry requirements exist for this course. You may view these by selecting from the list below.
Course description
Course description
BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies allows you to achieve near-native proficiency in modern Hebrew and to study the language within its cultural and historical context. Students start as beginners and go through to an advanced level over four years. The course will also look more widely at Jewish culture and literature with its roots in biblical and rabbinic times, and introduce you to social and cultural trends in modern Israel in their Middle Eastern context.
BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies is carefully structured so that you can measure your progress step by step. Learning Hebrew also opens the door to other Semitic languages available in this course, such as Aramaic. The third year of study is spent at an academic institution in Israel, an ideal way to improve your fluency in the language while gaining first-hand experience of life in the country.
BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies includes the following:
Modern Hebrew language courses: Gain competence in reading, writing, speaking and listening comprehension, while developing knowledge and understanding of Hebrew and Jewish and Israeli culture.
Hebrew-based thematic courses: Study biblical texts, which are the original expression of ideas that still, influence the modern world; be introduced to the classical sources of modern Judaism; read contemporary texts reflecting life and literature in modern Israel.
A choice from a wide variety of options to focus on your special interests, or extend your studies to other disciplines open within the University such as history, Religions & Theology, linguistics or the social sciences
Special features
Native speakers will be involved in your language teaching at all levels on BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies, and an understanding of the culture forms an inherent part of the learning of language. Your study is supported by the multi-media facilities of the Language Centre. Staff there can also put you in touch with students who are Hebrew native speakers.
Multi-cultural Manchester provides excellent general opportunities for contact with speakers of Hebrew and the pursuit of Israeli and Jewish interests outside the University of Manchester (e.g. public lectures, societies, cultural events etc.).
The University of Manchester has its own Centre for Jewish Studies, therefore there is an exceptionally wide range of Jewish subjects to choose from. The study of Hebrew, Israeli and Jewish culture is also placed within the context of related Middle Eastern languages, countries and cultures.
The year of Study Abroad in Israel offers you the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of a fascinating, vibrant and multi-cultural country with deep historical roots. You will have the chance to gain skills in the colloquial language, and to experience the modern Israeli way of life. Students on BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies are eligible for financial support from the University towards the cost of Israeli tuition fees.
The final-year dissertation gives you the opportunity to apply and demonstrate the transferable skills you have acquired in research, analysis and high-level writing, which is attractive to future employers.
Personal tutors based in the Department of Middle Eastern Studies will help you in planning your progress and reflecting on it, to ensure that you are constantly building up transferable and academic skills.
You will have access to the excellent student support arrangements and the award-winning careers service of the University of Manchester.
Course content for year 1
First-year study will concentrate on intensive language learning, a core course on the Middle East today and the development of study and IT skills.
Course content for year 2
In the second year you will complement your language learning, increase your reading of authentic texts, take courses on modern Middle Eastern and Hebrew literature and choose from a wide range of related subjects according to preference.
Course content for year 3
Your third year of study is spent abroad under approved conditions.
Course content for year 4
The fourth year covers an advanced language course, a variety of specialised Hebrew Studies course choices and a dissertation on an approved topic of your choice.
Career opportunities
There are numerous possibilities for graduates of the Department of Middle Eastern Studies. The general and academic skills acquired in the courses are welcomed by a broad spectrum of employers including the civil service, the British Council, non-governmental organisations, international organisations (for example the UN and the EU), business and commerce, banking, law, print and broadcast journalism, tourism management and teaching. Some recent graduates are academics and researchers in various fields, after going on to do postgraduate studies in areas such as Development Studies, International Relations, Linguistics, European Studies, History. BA (Hons) Hebrew Studies is also an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in the areas of Hebrew or Jewish studies both in the UK and in Israel, as well as for living and working in Israel.
