In the classical geopolitical tradition, Russia and Central Asia form the core of the Eurasian Heartland which is a very significant region for world politics. Apart from holding the global balance of power, the region, bound together by centuries of imperial and Soviet rule, boasts a rich historical heritage, dynamic political and social change, and endless cultural variety underpinned by the use of Russian as the lingua franca. This minor allows you to acquire a solid foundation for understanding the politics, history and culture of Russia and Central Asia, and their role in world politics and global security.
Learning Outcomes
understand and evaluate historical and current trends and events that have shaped Russia and Central Asia;
identify and examine political, economic and security challenges across post-Soviet Eurasia and responses to them;
appraise changing norms and cultural change in the region from the indigenous perspective;
understand diverse frameworks and interdisciplinary approaches through which current knowledge about Russia and Central Asia is generated; and
understand the dynamics of geopolitics in the region and its implication for global politics and security.
Relevant Degrees
Requirements
This minor requires the completion of 24 units, which must include:
A minimum of 12 units from the completion of the following course(s):
MEAS2001 New States of Eurasia: Emerging Issues in Politics and Security (6 units)
POLS2069 Politics in Russia (6 units)
POLS3070 Politics in Central Asia (6 units)
12 units from completion of the following course(s):
RUSS1003 Introduction to Russian I (6 units)
RUSS1004 Introduction to Russian II (6 units)
HIST2141 The Cold War: 1945 - 1989 (6 units)
HIST2242 The Soviet Union: From the Russian Revolution to the Collapse of Communism (6 units)
ASIA2016 The Mongol Empire in World History (6 units)
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