Syriac

January 15 – 24, 2026 | Cambridge, UK

Embark on Your Syriac Language Journey

Discover the beauty and depth of the Syriac language with our comprehensive beginner-friendly course in the heart of Cambridge. Designed for individuals with no prior knowledge of Syriac, this intensive programme provides a solid foundation in this ancient Semitic tongue, opening doors to a rich corpus of historical, religious, and literary texts.​

What You’ll Learn

  • Syriac Alphabet: Begin by mastering the Syriac script, including its various forms.​

  • Basic Grammar: Understand the fundamental structures and rules of Syriac grammar.​

  • Essential Vocabulary: Build a robust vocabulary base to aid in reading and comprehension.​

  • Reading and Translation: Develop skills to read and translate passages from classical Syriac literature.​

Why Study Syriac?

  • Access Rich Traditions: Engage directly with texts that have shaped early Christian thought and Middle Eastern literature.​

  • Enhance Academic Research: A valuable asset for scholars in theology, religious studies, history, and linguistics.​

  • Cultural Enrichment: Gain insights into the heritage and traditions of Syriac-speaking communities.​

Meet Your Tutor

Dr. George A. Kiraz
Dr. Kiraz is the founder and director of Beth Mardutho: The Syriac Institute, and Editor-in-Chief of Gorgias Press. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge, specializing in computational linguistics. With extensive publications in Syriac studies and digital humanities, Dr. Kiraz brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. He is also an ordained deacon in the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Course Schedule

Arrivals: Thursday, January 15 (between 11:00am–1:00pm)
Departures: Saturday, January 24 (after lunch)​

Daily Timetable (January 16–23)*

Time Activity
09:00–10:00 Class 1
10:00–11:00 Guided independent study
11:00–11:30 Coffee break
11:30–12:30 Class 2
12:30–13:00 Vocabulary learning/free time
13:00–14:00 Lunch
14:00–15:30 Class 3
15:30–17:00 Guided independent study

*Note: On January 15 and 24, there will be a half-day of teaching with an adjusted schedule. No classes will be held on Sunday, January 19.​

Key Information

Accommodation:
Cambridge offers a wide range of accommodation options. Limited on-suite accommodation is available at Westminster College and is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To check availability and pricing, please contact our accommodation team and mention the Ancient & Biblical Languages Winter School in your inquiry.

Cost
Fees include all teaching materials, weekday lunches, refreshments, and optional activities.

  • Early Bird Rate (until July 31 2025): £550

  • Standard Rate (from August 1 2025): £750

Cheshunt Bursaries
50% off for registered students or those on a low income

  • Early Bird with Bursary: £275

  • Standard Rate with Bursary: £375

Bursaries are limited and offered on a first-come first-served basis. Please select the relevant ticket at checkout using your student email if applying as student.

Refunds:

  • Full refunds will be provided on request up to and including the 31st August 2025.
  • 50% refunds will be provided on request up to and including 31st October 2025.
  • We regret that we are unable to offer refunds after and including the 1st November 2025.

Study Hours:

  • 24 hours of live instruction
  • 24 hours of guided independent study

Travel & Parking:
Parking charges apply. Please see website — click here.

How to Book

Please book via Ticket Tailor by following this link.

Spaces are limited, and early booking is highly recommended. Once you have booked onto your desired course via Ticket Tailor, you will have 7 days to pay the course fee by bank transfer and confirm your place.