Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies

The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies at the Australian National University offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary understanding of the complex histories, cultures, politics, and societies of the Middle East and Central Asia. This program is designed for students with a keen interest in the dynamic developments of these regions, providing them with the analytical skills and regional expertise necessary to engage with contemporary issues at a global level. Through a combination of coursework, research, and fieldwork, students explore a wide range of topics including history, politics, economics, religion, and cultural studies, gaining critical insights into the social fabric and geopolitical landscapes of Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries. The program emphasizes language proficiency, encouraging students to develop skills in relevant regional languages, such as Arabic, Persian, Turkish, or Central Asian languages, depending on their area of focus. Students benefit from the university's strong links with regional institutions and experts, providing opportunities for internships, research partnerships, and additional field-based learning experiences. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and policy analysis skills, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, government, NGOs, academia, or media organizations. The program is suitable for those seeking advanced knowledge in Middle Eastern and Central Asian affairs and aims to cultivate informed perspectives and nuanced understanding essential for operating effectively in a globalized world. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to policy development, academic research, or diplomatic efforts related to these regions, positioning themselves as experts equipped to navigate the complexities and opportunities present in Middle Eastern and Central Asian contexts.

The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies at the Australian National University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex histories, cultures, politics, and societies of the Middle East and Central Asia. This program is designed for students who wish to acquire specialized knowledge and critical analytical skills to engage with issues related to this dynamically evolving region. Students will explore a diverse array of topics, including historical developments, geopolitical strategies, cultural traditions, religious movements, economic dynamics, and contemporary social issues that shape the region today.

The curriculum provides a strong foundation in regional studies, combined with language training in key languages such as Arabic, Persian, Turkish, or Central Asian languages, depending on the student's focus area. Coursework includes lectures, seminars, and research projects, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of the historical context and current affairs. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary methods, integrating perspectives from political science, history, anthropology, and international relations, thus preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, or policy analysis.

Students will have access to world-class resources, including specialized library collections and digital archives, as well as opportunities for study abroad or internships in the region. The program culminates in a research thesis that allows students to contribute original insights into their area of interest, supported by expert faculty with extensive regional expertise. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the analytical tools and regional knowledge necessary to understand and influence one of the most geopolitically significant areas of the world.

• A Bachelor degree or international equivalent with a minimum GPA of All 5/7
• All applicants must meet the University's English Language Entry Requirements for Students

The Australian National University offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students pursuing Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, designed to support both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships such as the ANU International Undergraduate Scholarships, which provide financial assistance based on academic merit, and university-specific scholarships tailored to students specializing in Asian and Middle Eastern studies. Domestic students, on the other hand, can access government funding schemes including the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) arrangements and HELP loan schemes, which help reduce the upfront costs of tuition fees.

Additionally, the university partners with various external scholarship programs, offering awards like the Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports international students undertaking research and coursework programs related to Middle Eastern and Central Asian regions. Students are also advised to seek research grants and funding opportunities offered by Australian government agencies such as the Australian Research Council (ARC), which may support postgraduate research projects within the field.

The cost of study at ANU varies depending on the program level and student residency status. For domestic students, tuition fees are subsidized through government funding, making them more affordable. International students pay full fee amounts, but these are often offset by scholarships, bursaries, and external funding options. The university also provides options for financial aid, installment payment plans, and access to work-study programs, enabling students to support themselves financially during their studies.

Students are recommended to consult the ANU Scholarships Office and Financial Support services early to identify appropriate funding opportunities and to understand eligibility requirements. The university’s dedicated financial support staff can assist in preparing applications for scholarships, grants, and other funding schemes, ensuring students maximize their financial resources. Overall, ANU’s financing studies are structured to alleviate financial barriers, making high-quality education accessible to a diverse student body interested in Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies.

Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies at the Australian National University offers an in-depth and comprehensive exploration of the history, politics, culture, and societies of the Middle East and Central Asia. The program is designed for students seeking to develop expert knowledge and analytical skills related to these regions, which are of significant geopolitical and cultural importance. The curriculum combines coursework in regional history, contemporary politics, social issues, anthropology, languages, and international relations, providing students with a multidisciplinary perspective.

Students can expect to engage with a variety of core and elective units that facilitate a nuanced understanding of issues such as regional conflicts, economic developments, cultural transformations, and diplomatic affairs. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in government, diplomacy, international organizations, research institutions, or academia. Additionally, students have opportunities to undertake independent research, culminating in a substantial thesis or research project that contributes original insights to the field.

The program often incorporates language training in Arabic, Persian, Turkish, or other regional languages, enhancing students' linguistic capabilities and cultural competence. The ANU’s strong connections with regional experts and institutions provide valuable networking opportunities and access to current policy debates and historical scholarship. The Faculty of Asian Studies, under which this program is offered, leverages a global network of academics and practitioners, offering students a well-rounded educational experience.

Learners in this program benefit from access to extensive academic resources, including a comprehensive library collection, research institutes, and online databases. The university's location in Canberra also offers proximity to government agencies and diplomatic missions, which can be advantageous for practical experience and internships. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute effectively to areas requiring regional expertise, such as international policy development, humanitarian work, or academic research. The Australian National University’s reputation for excellence in Asian and Middle Eastern studies makes this program a distinguished choice for individuals aiming to specialize in this dynamic and complex region.