Middle East Studies Program

MIDDLE EAST STUDIES PROGRAM
College of Arts and Sciences
University of Virginia

The Middle East Studies Program, with its interdisciplinary approach, provides a unique opportunity to learn about the languages and peoples, literatures and cultures, religions and histories of the region from the Maghreb in the west to Afghanistan in the east. The program encompasses the study of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic civilizations from antiquity to the modern era as they struggle to retain their roots, while coping with regional conflicts and the challenge of modernity.

UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM
Language courses are available in Arabic, Hebrew (Biblical and Modern), Persian, Urdu, and occasionally Turkish. Non-language courses cover the history, literatures, religions, and civilizations of the areas extending from the Arabic-speaking regions of North Africa to the central lands of the Middle East. Topics include archaeology; contemporary international relations and politics; cultural anthropology; history of Islam; Islamic thought and culture; Middle Eastern literatures in translation; sociolinguistics; women's studies; mysticism; Judaism; relations between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Students are also encouraged to make selections from the graduate course offerings.
Undergraduate students desiring to major or minor in Middle Eastern Studies or Middle Eastern Languages and Literatures can obtain the requisite information by visiting the Degree Programs information page of the Department.

STUDY ABROAD

For students of Arabic in particular, the University of Virginia-Yarmouk University Summer Arabic Program provides an opportunity to study intensive Arabic in Irbid, Jordan and to enhance a unique cultural experience.

For advanced students of French, the University of Virginia also offers an exciting foreign study program in Morocco (administered by the French Department).

Students are also encouraged to consider other programs in the United States or abroad. See the International Studies Office website for more information.