Careers and employability
You'll graduate with extensive knowledge of Arab culture and language, opening up a broad range of career choices and opportunities to connect with people across the Middle East.
Leeds graduates have an excellent reputation and Leeds is the 4th most targeted university in the UK by graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market in 2024).
What can I do with an Arabic, Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies degree?
Many of our Arabic, Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies graduates have gone on to work in areas such as:
- translation and interpreting
- media and journalism
- teaching
- tourism
- logistics
- business and commerce
- marketing
- charitable organisations and non-governmental organisations.
We also offer one-year Masters courses for those looking to progress to postgraduate study after graduation, including translation courses and Masters by Research.
Other popular qualifications for our graduates include CELTA courses which have led to teaching posts in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE and other parts of the Gulf, with both universities and language institutes.
What careers support will I have?
You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies with access to the activities and expertise of the award-winning University Careers Centre.
School support
As a student with us, you'll be guided in your career choices and prepared for life after your degree in a variety of ways. Workshops and events are organised for you by the School throughout the year and focus on networking, understanding the value of your language skills, hearing from alumni about their career experiences, and hosting graduate recruiters who want to hire you.
We’ll also keep you informed of work and voluntary placements that you can fit around your studies.
University support
Our experts in the University’s Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, helping you to understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll also be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.
Your year abroad
By studying abroad you'll gain valuable experiences and skills to help you in the graduate job market.
Work experience
Some of our courses allow you to choose a work placement year as part of your degree so that you can gain first-hand experience in the workplace.
Other opportunities include summer internships, part-time work and volunteering with charities and student societies to gain valuable experience.
Leeds University Union
The Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year. Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests. They’re also a great way to develop your skills such as team working and leadership. For example, you could be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas.
The Union is also home to School Reps, who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School.
Enterprise
At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we can help you tailor your experience.