Politics of the Middle East

The MSc Politics of the Middle East is further distinguished by the criticial perspective of its senior scholars and tutors and the cutting-edge modules on offer. The content balances historical and theoretical rigour with coverage of up-to-the-minute regional and global developments.

Students choose from modules covering the politics of resistance, religion, and solidarity, alongside urban politics, infrastructure, migration, artificial intelligence and human security.

The programme trains students in disciplinary approaches — political sociology, political economy, and international relations — while encouraging them to think and write across these disciplinary boundaries.

Why study MSc Politics of the Middle East at SOAS?

We’re ranked 5th in the UK for Politics, as well as 3rd globally for academic reputation (QS World University Rankings 2022).

SOAS itself is unique — our global student body, multi-disciplinary approach, critical and questioning attitude moves well beyond the focus on basic ‘skills training’ found in so many other programmes.

On this MSc, students’ learning and research are enhanced by access to the world-leading specialist SOAS Library, the opportunity to take a language module, and the vibrant programme of academic and student-run events on the Middle East at SOAS.

Who should apply?

The MSc Politics of the Middle East is one of the Politics Department’s longest running and most popular programmes.

It attracts students who wish to build on their academic or professional connections with the Middle East, and to develop transferable skills for employment in a variety of fields.