Master's Degree Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies (Advanced)

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

082339E

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$107,650 total

Per year

A$53,825/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies (Advanced) at the Australian National University in Canberra offers an in-depth exploration of the political, historical, social, and cultural dynamics of the Middle East and Central Asia. Students engage with a rigorous curriculum that draws on the expertise of a leading Australian university renowned for its focus on international affairs and research. The course addresses contemporary issues such as conflict, development, identity, religion, migration, and resource politics, equipping graduates with a nuanced understanding of the region's complexities.

This two-year master's degree is structured around sequential semesters and comprises multiple units of study, each contributing to the required credit points for graduation. Students complete core and elective subjects covering theoretical frameworks, regional case studies, and practical analysis, with opportunities to study topics like foreign policy, security challenges, and regional studies. A significant feature of the advanced stream is the inclusion of a major research thesis or capstone project, allowing students to undertake independent research under supervision and refine their analytical and scholarly skills.

The course is designed for those aiming to develop expertise relevant to careers in government, foreign affairs, policy analysis, academia, and non-governmental organisations. As part of the experience, students may have access to guest lectures, Australian think tanks, and policy-focused events in Canberra, providing strong industry and research connections. International students are welcome and, provided they meet English language proficiency requirements, benefit from Australia's multicultural academic environment, the right to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and the potential to seek post-study work opportunities through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).

Graduates emerge with critical research, analytical, regional language, and cross-cultural communication skills. The programme is suited to those with a keen interest in international relations, area studies, regional research, and those seeking to make an impact in policy development, journalism, or regional consultancy. Prospective students should confirm details, including specific admission requirements and unit offerings, on the official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Analyst or advisor in Australian or international government agencies
Policy officer or researcher in think tanks and NGOs
Regional specialist in international organisations
Academic or research assistant at universities and institutes
Consultant for intergovernmental and advocacy organisations
Media and journalistic roles focusing on Middle Eastern and Central Asian affairs

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies (Advanced) at Australian National University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$107,650 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Analyst or advisor in Australian or international government agenciesPolicy officer or researcher in think tanks and NGOsRegional specialist in international organisationsAcademic or research assistant at universities and institutesConsultant for intergovernmental and advocacy or...

Apply View university