Studies of the Middle East and Central Asia

A new institute examining everything from the security challenges and cultures to the histories and language of the Middle East, Central Asia and Caucasus has been created at the University of St Andrews.

Unique in the UK for its geographic remit, the Institute of Middle East, Central Asia and Caucasus Studies (MECACS) will offer a new, one-year self- contained Masters degree. The programme is aimed at both students and professionals – it is designed for students wishing to pursue a doctoral degree related to these geographic areas and for individuals who either plan careers in government, international and non-governmental organisations, journalism and business or are already in these professions and seek intensive study of the region.

Director Dr Sally Cummings in the School of International Relations said, “The Middle East, Central Asia and the Caucasus have become central to contemporary security studies. Home to substantial oil reserves and some of the world’s most intractable conflicts, the area attracts strong Western interest. The region’s states and societies are being rebuilt and their orientations redefined. While these regions have important historical, religious and cultural similarities, they also provide for contrast in the historical divergences of their political and economic development”.

MECACS aims to stimulate interdisciplinary research, teaching, discussion and events across the University’s diverse range of disciplines, especially in Arabic and Middle East Studies, History and Economics. Further information on MECACS and its associated activities can be found at www.st-andrews.ac.uk/mecacs/ or by emailing [email protected]. Alternatively, contact the Institute of Middle East, Central Asia and Caucasus Studies (MECACS), School of International Relations, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, KY16 9AL, telephone +44(0)1334-462861 or 462938 or fax +44(0)1334-462937.

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media On behalf of the University of St Andrews For more information, please contact Claire Grainger, Press Officer – 01334 462530, 07730 415 015 or [email protected]; Ref: press releases/MECACS View the latest University news at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk