MA in Arabic Language and Literature

Master of Arabic Language and Literature

About the Program

Program Launch

The Master’s Program in Arabic Language and Literature began in 1973 (1393/1394 AH). It was initially managed through shared courses among faculty members and established by leading scholars including Dr. Ahmed Al-Dhubaib, Dr. Mohammed Shukri Ayad, Dr. Hassan Shadhli Farhoud, Dr. Mohammed Mustafa Hadara, and Dr. Ramadan Abdel-Tawab.

Objective

To prepare researchers specialized in Arabic language and literature capable of contributing to academic research, fostering critical thinking, and serving the community in linguistic and literary fields.

Vision, Mission, Objectives, and Core Values

Vision

Leadership and excellence in Arabic language and literature studies locally and regionally.

Mission

To deliver high-quality education in Arabic language and literature, conduct diverse scientific research in an engaging academic environment, and supply society with qualified graduates equipped with advanced academic and professional competencies.

Objectives

Enhancing linguistic and literary analytical skills through modern methods and theories.
Conducting scientific research that contributes to cultural and intellectual development.
Preparing graduates who can meet the needs of society and the job market.

Core Values

Respect for Others Accountability Effective Collaboration Academic Integrity Creativity & Innovation

Study Plan (Structure and Percentage)

The program comprises a total of 27 credit hours distributed as follows:

13 Courses = 26 Hours

Coursework (Mandatory)

1 Hour

Thesis

27 Hours

Total

Approximate Distribution: Courses 96% • Thesis 4%

Program Tracks

Literature and Criticism Track
Language and Grammar Track

Degree Requirements

Completion of three semesters, covering 25 credit hours of coursework.
Registration and preparation of a Research Proposal (1 credit) during the fourth semester.
Completion and defense of the Master’s Thesis (1 credit) before an academic committee.

Course Structure by Level

Shared Courses — Level 1

Level	Code	Course Title	Type	Prerequisite	Credits
1	ARAB 512	Literary Theory	Required	—	2
1	ARAB 516	Studies in Literature	Required	—	2
1	ARAB 531	Syntax	Required	—	2
1	ARAB 541	Linguistics	Required	—	2
Total					8

Shared Courses — Level 2

Level	Code	Course Title	Type	Prerequisite	Credits
2	ARAB 525	Comparative Literary Schools	Required	—	2
2	ARAB 544	Studies in Rhetoric	Required	—	2
2	ARAB 563	Text Editing	Required	—	2
2	ARAB 564	Research Methodology	Required	—	2
Total					8

Literature and Criticism Track — Level 3

Level	Code	Course Title	Type	Prerequisite	Credits
3	ARAB 517	Literary Genres	Required	—	3
3	ARAB 521	Literary Criticism	Required	—	2
3	ARAB 523	Critical Issue	Required	—	2
3	ARAB 524	Aesthetics	Required	—	2
Total					9

Language and Grammar Track — Level 3

Level	Code	Course Title	Type	Prerequisite	Credits
3	ARAB 542	Linguistic Issue	Required	—	2
3	ARAB 543	Classical Text Study	Required	—	2
3	ARAB 546	Studies in Linguistic Heritage	Required	—	3
3	ARAB 547	Issues in Syntax and Morphology	Required	—	2
Total					9

Shared Courses — Level 4

Level	Code	Course Title	Type	Prerequisite	Credits
4	ARAB 596	Research Proposal	Required	—	1
4	ARAB 600	Thesis	Required	All previous	1
Total					2

In the fourth semester, students prepare their research proposal (1 credit), and upon approval, proceed to write and defend their thesis (1 credit).

Historical Overview

The program started in 1973 (1393/1394 AH) with a single cohort of two students: Abdulmajeed Hamza Al-Azouoni (from the Department) and Abdullah Al-Muflih (from outside the Department and working in the judiciary). Courses were collaboratively taught by faculty members under the chairmanship of Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al-Dhubaib, who later became the President of King Saud University.

Graduate Attributes