The aim of our programs is to provide quality and coherent graduate education in Middle Eastern & Central Asian studies. They are designed for students who seek academic preparation for a career in a professional arena requiring a solid understanding of Arabs, Islam, the Middle East & Central Asia; whether in diplomacy, the public service, teaching, journalism, or business. Qualified applicants from both Australia and overseas are invited to apply.

Please contact CAIS for current information on the new programs, entry requirements, and application procedures.

Please note: There is a system of recognising prior learning and work experience for entry to the MMECAS. For further information on what might count towards any advanced standing contact CAIS.

Download the CAIS Study Guide 2020 from the File Attachments section below.

Applications for second semester 2020 now open.

Coursework programs

Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies (Advanced)

The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies (Advanced) enables students to undertake research training in the form of a supervised research sub-thesis of 20,000 words (24 units) to complement the skills and knowledge gained in the coursework.

Applicants must have completed the Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies with a minimum 70% course average.

Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies

The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies is designed for students who want to get a broad education in Middle East and Central Asian Studies, but who do not want to write a sub-thesis.

Program Requirements for MMECAS

This program has a duration of between one or two years depending on the prior qualifications of the candidate.

• The degree is a two-year program if candidates have no cognate qualifications. The two-year program requires the completion of 96 units or 16 courses.
• Applicants with a Graduate Diploma or Honours in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 48 units (1 year) of credit.
• Applicants with a Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 24 units (1 semester) of credit.

This degree is normally be completed over two years of full-time study.

Please see the College of Arts and Social Sciences Postgraduate Guide

Languages

CAIS offers programs in Arabic, Persian and Turkish.

Research programs

Research at the Centre is carried out in a wide range of areas relating to the politics, political economy, history and international relations of the Middle East and Central Asia. See the Graduate student page for current PhD topics and published dissertation titles.

Two degree options are available:

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil): Supervised research culminating in a thesis of up to 60,000 words
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Independent research culminating in a thesis of up to 100,000 words

Students who are interested in MPhil or PhD studies should contact the Centre directly to discuss their proposed research topic.

Application procedures

Research students and international students can now apply online.

The online application process should be both quicker and easier.

If you are interested in enrolling in a research degree at the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies go to the CASS Higher Degree by Research page.

Domestic students and students enrolling in coursework programs apply through the University Admissions Centre.