PhD in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies in New York United States | New York University

The doctoral program in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies offers specialized education covering the region's history, cultures, languages, literature, and religious traditions, with an emphasis on the Islamic era through modern times. Faculty members represent diverse academic backgrounds—including history, anthropology, literary studies, Islamic scholarship, linguistics, sociology, and political science—ensuring students receive rigorous disciplinary training while encouraging cross-disciplinary and comparative methodologies. Many professors hold dual appointments with other NYU departments.

MEIS provides structured coursework and guided research culminating in a PhD in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. Doctoral candidates specialize in one of three focus areas: Islamic Studies, Literature, or Culture and Representation. Additionally, MEIS collaborates with the History Department to offer a combined PhD program in History and Middle Eastern Studies. The program specifically targets highly qualified applicants dedicated to doctoral research, as it does not confer MA degrees. Those seeking a master's degree should consider the Kevorkian Center's Near Eastern Studies program, which grants a standalone MA in this field.