Master's Program

Duration: 1-2 years

Overview

This advanced program is tailored for professionals seeking to specialize in Middle East strategy and security. It delves deeply into the region's geopolitical challenges, emphasizing conflict management, energy politics, and strategic alliances. Students gain advanced analytical skills and practical insights into policy-making and diplomatic negotiation.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Master the complexities of Middle East security challenges and strategic rivalries.

• Develop skills to assess the geopolitical implications of regional crises and alliances.

• Gain expertise in energy strategy, counterterrorism, and peacebuilding efforts.

• Build capabilities in drafting actionable policy recommendations and conducting risk assessments.

Core Courses

• Strategic Rivalries in the Middle East: Study of Saudi-Iran competition, Turkey’s role, and Israel’s strategy.

• Energy Politics and Global Power: Impact of oil and gas on regional and international relations.

• Counterterrorism in the Middle East: Strategies against groups like ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Hezbollah.

• Diplomacy and Peace Processes: Case studies on the Iran Nuclear Deal, Oslo Accords, and Gulf reconciliation.

• Technology and Cybersecurity in the Middle East: Emerging threats and opportunities in regional cyberwarfare.

• Proxy Wars and External Influences: Analysis of the roles of Russia, the U.S., and regional actors in conflicts like Syria and Yemen.

• The Middle East and China’s Belt and Road Initiative: Understanding China’s growing footprint in the region.

Specializations (Choose One):

1. Energy Strategy : Focus on OPEC, renewable energy potential, and global energy transitions.

2. Conflict Resolution and Mediation : Deep dive into peace negotiations and international mediation strategies.

3. Regional Development and Governance : Study efforts to modernize and stabilize Middle Eastern states.

Thesis or Practicum

Students will write a thesis on topics linked to Middle East. Alternatively, they can work with a policy institute or international organization on a Middle East-focused project.

Career opportunities

Policy advisor, regional specialist for government agencies, think tanks, or multinational corporations.