Georgian studies: relevant and in-demand profession

"Georgian Studies" educational program as a driving force to explore uncharted sources of history

Georgian studies is one of the significant branches of oriental studies. Attaching importance to strengthening ties between Armenian and Georgian academic communities, Associate Professor Hayk Mkhoyan, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Head of the "Georgian Studies" Master’s program, noted that Armenian universities have not been training Georgian scientists in recent decades. To address this gap, the "Georgian Studies" educational program was introduced by the YSU History Faculty. The program aims to establish skilled professionals capable of conducting essential research in this field. 

"Our sources contain many materials about Georgia, while conversely, Georgia possesses a wealth of historical materials about Armenia and Armenians. These materials should be studied by Armenian researchers. Today, Georgian and European scientists come to Armenia to explore such sources. For instance, they research the works housed at the "Matenadaran" Mesrop Mashtots Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, which hold insights about the Georgian people. Therefore, it is necessary that we also have specialists in the field who will study the historical sources related to the Armenian people's history," the head of the master’s program highlighted.  

Hayk Mkhoyan assured that by training Georgian scientists, we will have a scientific community with access to a wide range of research opportunities. Moreover, Armenian scientists, through collaboration with Georgian scientists, will make new scientific discoveries. 

Educational program features and opportunities

The teaching of the Georgian language is a crucial component of the "Georgian Studies" master's program. This includes the study of the ancient Georgian language and is taught by a native lecturer. Hayk Mkhoyan clarified that proficiency in the Georgian language is not a mandatory requirement for applying to the educational program.

"Throughout their studies, students will delve into the intricacies of translation, explore Georgian literature, examine various directions of Georgian history such as source studies and historiography. Special emphasis is placed on Armenian-Georgian connections, particularly the history of the Armenian community in Georgia. Additionally, several courses discuss Georgia's relations with neighboring countries, including current developments in relations with Turkey, Russia, and the EU," Hayk Mkhoyan noted.

According to him, within the framework of the program, students will also have the opportunity to attend master classes in Georgia.

The current demand for Georgian scientists in Armenia and the lack of sufficient specialists

"Various institutions frequently approach YSU seeking specialists proficient in the Georgian language and well-versed in Georgia's history. However, we have been unable to fulfill this demand until now due to the absence of a comprehensive educational program dedicated to training Georgian scientists. In contrast, Georgian universities have extensively and continuously studied Armenian studies," said Hayk Mkhoyan.  

He is convinced that after completing the educational program, the students can apply their knowledge in practice both in state institutions and in the field of tourism, in addition to engaging in science.

"Georgian scientists are also in demand for research, strategic planning with state institutions, and developing concepts aimed at national security, as it is essential to consider neighboring countries (in this case, Georgia) when formulating foreign policy documents. There is a shortage of Georgian scientists in the labor market, as specialists have not been trained for a long time; there were only researchers. I believe the graduates of the educational program will successfully find their place in the labor market," he said.

As a reminder, the documents for the 1st stage of admission to the "Georgian Studies" Master's educational program are accepted from June 1-28, 2024, until 6:00 pm. The entrance examination for the 1st stage will be held on July 2, 2024. The documents of the 2nd stage are accepted from July 8 to August 16, 2024, until 6:00 pm. The entrance examination for the 2nd stage will be held on August 23, 2024.

4 tuition-free places are available within the framework of the master's program. All applicants participating in the 1st stage have the opportunity to study under the free system, regardless of the grade point average (GPA), university and specialization.