AMES Recognised Among the UK's Leading Institutions for African & Middle Eastern Studies

Faculty's building

The Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (AMES) is delighted to have been recognised among the UK's leading institutions for African & Middle Eastern Studies in the Complete University Guide 2026 subject rankings.

Published annually, the Complete University Guide is one of the UK's most widely used university guides. The guide helps prospective students and their families explore courses, compare institutions, and make informed decisions about higher education. The rankings draw on a range of indicators including research quality, entry standards, graduate prospects, and student satisfaction.

Commenting on the recognition, Professor Amira K. Bennison, Head of the Middle East Department, said:

“We are very pleased to see our Faculty recognised in this year’s rankings. This recognition reflects the dedication of our academic and professional services staff, the intellectual curiosity of our students, and the vibrant learning and research environment we continue to build together at AMES.”

For us, however, this recognition is about more than rankings.

At AMES, we believe that studying languages, cultures, histories, and societies is one of the most powerful ways to understand a rapidly changing world. Our students engage with regions and communities that are central to contemporary global conversations. Our coursework and tailored support help them develop the linguistic, cultural, and analytical skills needed to navigate complex international challenges.

Through the study of Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese, Persian, and the wider histories, literatures, and cultures of East Asia and the Middle East, students are encouraged to think critically and cross boundaries. They are challenged to interrogate different ways of understanding the world. 

Because understanding each other has never mattered more.