The "Caucasian Studies" bachelor's degree program at the YSU Faculty of History continues to develop in line with contemporary educational demands and trends. The recent changes in the program are aimed at increasing its effectiveness, practical applicability, and the competitiveness of its graduates in the labor market.
In recent years, interest in the program has grown significantly, as evidenced by a steady increase in the number of applicants. This is attributed both to the program's updated curriculum and to the expanding professional opportunities for its graduates.
The "Caucasian Studies" program is designed to train specialists with in-depth knowledge of the history, culture, and political processes of the region, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
A key feature of the program is its linguistic training—one of the foundational pillars of Caucasological education. According to the program director, PhD, Associate Professor Hayk Mkhoyan, particular emphasis is placed on the study of regional languages: "Students often prefer Azerbaijani, taking into account geopolitical realities. However, we also emphasize the importance of Georgian, as a significant portion of Caucasological literature is in Georgian."
Within the framework of the program, students have the opportunity to study Azerbaijani and Georgian, while also acquiring professional translation skills. This integrated language training significantly enhances graduates' competitiveness and broadens their professional opportunities.
There is no other educational program in Armenia or worldwide in which both of these languages are studied in depth simultaneously. Given that students are also proficient in Armenian, graduates of the program are formed as specialists capable of studying the region in three languages.
According to Mkhoyan, historical and ethnographic courses—presented in a clear, structured format—also occupy an important place in the curriculum. Students study the history, culture, and social development of the peoples of the Caucasus, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the region.
"Particular attention is also paid to the study of regional developments. The courses combine the analysis of both historical and contemporary political developments, enabling students to perceive the Caucasus as an interconnected and multilayered space," the program director emphasized.
An important component of the program is practical training. Students have the opportunity to undertake internships at the Matenadaran, archives and libraries, as well as in government agencies, helping them develop research skills and lay the groundwork for academic work.
The "Caucasian Studies" program integrates linguistic, historical, and research training, preparing specialists who can effectively work in both academic and applied fields.
Admission to the "Caucasian Studies" bachelor's program is based on exam results in "Armenian History" (written), "Armenian Language and Literature" (written), or "Foreign Language" (written). Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 10 of the current year inclusive (on May 10 until 18:00).
