StudyQA — Master: Comparative and Middle East Politics and Society (CMEPS)

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The Master's program in Comparative and Middle East Politics and Society (CMEPS) at the University of Tübingen offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of political, social, and cultural developments in the Middle East, as well as comparative perspectives on political systems worldwide. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students who are interested in exploring the complex dynamics shaping societies and political institutions in the Middle East, with an emphasis on analyzing contemporary issues through a critical and analytical lens.

The curriculum combines core courses in political science, sociology, and history, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of regional conflicts, governance structures, social movements, and economic developments. Students will study topics such as democratization processes, authoritarian regimes, identity politics, religious and ideological movements, and the impact of globalization on Middle Eastern societies. Additionally, the program provides comparative insights into political systems and societal changes in other regions, fostering a broader global perspective.

The program places a strong emphasis on research skills, including qualitative and quantitative analysis, fieldwork, and critical discussion. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, utilize diverse sources, and critically evaluate different perspectives. There are opportunities for practical experience through internships, field trips, and collaboration with research institutions specializing in Middle Eastern studies.

Faculty members are experts in Middle Eastern politics, society, history, and culture, offering students guidance and mentorship throughout their studies. The program also benefits from the university’s extensive network of academic partnerships and research centers, providing access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for international exchange.

Graduates of the CMEPS program are well-equipped for careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, NGOs, journalism, and diplomatic service. They possess the analytical skills, regional expertise, and intercultural competence necessary to understand and address complex political and social challenges in the Middle East and beyond. This program is ideal for students who are passionate about Middle Eastern affairs and aspire to become informed, critical, and engaged professionals in this dynamic field.

Educational organisation

During their studies, CMEPS students complete either an exchange term with the American University in Cairo (exchange track) or an extended internship (professional track).

At Tübingen University, CMEPS studies are organised as follows:

24 ECTS credits for the alternate modules (depending on students' first degree)

Module 1: Foundations and Methods in Political Science 1
Module 2: Introduction to Comparative Politics
Module 3: Language Acquisition Advanced Learners

Module 4: Language Acquisition 1
Module 5: Language Acquisition 2

45 ECTS credits for the compulsory modules

Module 6: Language Acquisition 3 (only for exchange track students; during third semester)
Module 7: Issues in Comparative & Middle East Politics and Society 1 - The Modern Middle East
Module 8: Issues in Comparative & Middle East Politics and Society 2 - Democratisation
Module 9: Issues in Comparative & Middle East Politics and Society 3 - Development (for professional track students as a blocked course; during the third semester)
Module 10a: Short Internship or Transdisciplinary Qualifications (for exchange track students; during the second semester)

Module 10b: Long Internship (for professional track students; during the third semester)

21 ECTS credits for the mandatory elective modules (for exchange track students in semesters one to three, for professional track students in semesters one to two)

Module 11: Issues in Cultures and Civil Societies of the Middle East
Module 12: Special Issues in Political Science
Module 13: Special Issues in Comparative & Middle East Politics and Society

30 ECTS credits for the examination module

Module 14: Examination

At the AUC, CMEPS studies are organised as follows:

Compulsory courses:

POLS 504/5204 - Advanced Political Science Methods (three credits, first semester)
POLS 535/5235 - Middle East Politics (three credits, first semester)
POLS 558/5258 - Comparative Politics and the Middle East (three credits, second semester)
POLS 570/5270 - Special Topics in Political Science for Graduates (three credits, third semester)
POLS 530/5230 - Regime Change and Democratisation (three credits, first semester or Tübingen equivalent during third semester)
Elementary German classes

Four mandatory elective courses in consultation with the Graduate Adviser/Coordinator of the joint programme

Thesis

Study abroad unit(s)

For the exchange track, an exchange semester at the German (Tübingen University) or Egyptian (American University in Cairo) partner institution is an integral part of the programme, as are joint seminars and the joint supervision of the MA thesis by faculty members from both universities.

The professional experience track will include a long internship instead of the exchange semester.

Internships

CMEPS students in Tübingen complete a mandatory short internship (exchange track) or a long internship (professional experience track) during the course of their studies.

Course objectives

Irrespective of their first degree, by the end of their studies CMEPS students will have a unique profile that combines an advanced knowledge of comparative politics with a strong specialisation in the politics, society, cultures, and language of the Arab Middle East.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of proficiency in English, e.g., through TOEFL (scores: at least 90), IELTS (at least 6.5, writing section at least 7.0), or by providing a similar certificate. Students are exempted from certifying their English language skills under certain conditions (mother tongue, previous study experience in English-language programmes); please consult our homepage for details.

German language skills are not a prerequisite at either of the partner institutions.

Academic requirements

Selection of students is based on academic capabilities, personal qualification and motivation. You are eligible to study in the CMEPS programme if you:

hold a BA degree or equivalent

a) in political science or a related social science, or
b) in Middle East studies, Islamic studies, or a related discipline (only at Tübingen University)

provide evidence of your proficiency in English, e.g., through TOEFL (scores: at least 90), IELTS (at least 6.5 in total and 7.0 in the writing section), or by providing a similar certificate

At Tübingen University, applicants' Bachelor's grade must be 2.5 or better (on the German grading scale); at AUC, a GPA of at least 3.2 is required.

At Tübingen University, required documents for application comprise: high school diploma, BA certificate/transcripts of records, CV, a letter of motivation (up to two pages), proof of English language requirements
Optional documents are: evidence of other achievements (internships, work experience, etc.), contact details of an academic referee (if desired, to be noted in CV)

At the American University in Cairo:
Make sure to select Graduate Admissions and the correct entry date as well as the concentration for MA in Comparative & Middle East Politics and Society (CMEPS) on the application form.