Middle Eastern Studies or Near Eastern Studies is an umbrella term associated with a diverse group of academic programs associated with the study of the history, politics, economies, geography and culture of the Middle East, which is sometimes more narrowly defined along the lines of the Arab world and sometimes more liberally to encompass all areas from Morocco, to Turkey, to Afghanistan. This region, rich in history but today in parts embroiled in ethnic, religious and geopolitical conflict, is of great strategic interest to all world players and home to hundreds of millions of people from many cultural, ethnic and religious groups. This region is unlikely to become any less significant anytime soon, so if you have a passion for Middle Eastern cultures, languages, or history, consider an English-language degree from a German university!