4 benefits of studying an Arabic-taught master’s

Sponsored by Dhofar University 

Arabic is the fifth most popular language in the world. Approximately 420 million people around the world speak Arabic, many of whom live in the 22 locations that have Arabic as their official language. 

The Arab region is also a popular study destination, with 160 universities making it into the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2021, including Dhofar University in Oman.  

Dhofar University offers 10 Arabic-taught master’s degrees in a wide range of subject areas, including management, social work, private and public law and educational administration. Its Master of Arts in Literature and Criticism (Arabic Language) and Master of Arts in Language Studies (Arabic Language) are both new programmes that have been reviewed by experts and which are taught by experienced international faculty members. 

Whether you’ve spoken Arabic all your life, or are relatively new to the language, studying an Arabic-taught master’s degree is a great way to improve your language skills and impress future employers.  

Read on to discover some of the exciting benefits of studying an Arabic-taught master’s degree. 

Reading, writing and speaking Arabic will improve your language skills  

If you choose to study in Arabic, you will be immersed in the language every day, whether you’re writing essays or enjoying a coffee with friends.  

Arabic is a complex language with many different dialects depending on where you study. However good your grasp of the language is, surrounding yourself with Arabic-speaking friends, reading Arabic books and writing in Arabic will greatly improve your skills. If you aren’t already fluent in the language, you soon will be.  

Dhofar University prides itself in the high quality of its teaching, research and community outreach, and is committed to encouraging creativity and innovation in an open learning environment. Each of its Arabic-taught master’s degrees are taught by native Arabic-speaking faculty members.  

The school’s exciting new programmes, Master of Arts in Language Studies (Arabic Language) and Master of Arts in Literature and Criticism (Arabic Language), encourage students to further challenge themselves and delve deeper into the Arabic language. 

You'll make lifelong friendships and become better at communicating  

When you choose to study abroad, you’ll be surrounded by people from different countries and cultures who have contrasting views and distinct ways of communicating. Some of the people you meet while studying abroad will become lifelong friends. 

Dhofar University attracts a wide mix of students and more than five percent of Dhofar University’s 5,000 students are from outside Oman. The university has a dedicated student activities centre and hosts events throughout the year, giving students the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.  

You’ll have opportunities to explore the Arab region and take in the culture 

Studying abroad will open up plenty of opportunities to explore other Arab-speaking locations, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Iran and Egypt.  

The Arabic region consists of a wealth of different groups, communities and cultures, so it’s impossible to talk about just a single Arabic culture.  

Oman is a popular study destination and is home to five of the world’s best universities – all of which feature in the QS Arab Region University Rankings. Oman is considered to be one of the most liberal destinations in the Middle East. However, it’s worth remembering, that students should be careful to respect the local customs.  

Located in the Dhofar Governorate of Sultanate of Oman is the city of Salalah, where you can find Dhofar University. Salalah is well known for its natural beauty, with lush green mountains, pristine beaches and many architectural attractions attracting students from around the world.  

Dhofar University celebrates Omani culture, with its 450,000-square-metre campus showcasing a blend of modern and traditional Omani architecture. The school also hosts a variety of social and cultural events on campus that reflect Oman’s rich heritage and encourage students to discover more about Dhofar. 

Impress employers with your international outlook 

Adaptability and possessing a global mindset are two skills that employers are increasingly looking for in graduates. With the world becoming increasingly globalised, large multinational companies value international competence and the ability to build relationships with people all around the world.  

This is particularly important if you’re looking to work abroad after graduation – and an Arabic-taught master’s degree might be the passport you need to secure your dream job. 

Wherever in the Arab region you explore, you’ll take in the rich history and culture and gain a fresh perspective.