Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures: Ancient Middle East, BA
The major in Ancient Middle East examines the languages, history, cultures, and archaeology of the Ancient Middle East: from Prehistory through the early complex of civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Levant. Because of the interdependence of language and culture an emphasis of the major is gaining facility of one or more ancient languages, alongside courses in history, religion, and archaeology.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 34. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: https://nelc.sas.upenn.edu/undergraduate/major
Curriculum
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
| Choose one of the following options: | 4 | |
4 credits in AMEL 0000-4999 courses | ||
| 2 credits in Language Electives (Attribute ANEL, ANML, ANBH or ANLT) | 2 | |
| Breadth Requirement | ||
| MELC 0001/ANCH 0100/HIST 0730 | Introduction to the Ancient Middle East | 1 |
| MELC 0002 | Introduction to the Middle East | 1 |
| Concentration Requirements 3 | ||
| 5 Credits of coursework (Attribute ANNE) | 5 | |
| Select 1 course unit in Concentration Paper | 1 | |
| Total Course Units | 34 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
This requirement may be fulfilled by taking at least 4 course units of Egyptian or Biblical Hebrew or West Semitic languages or Cuneiform (Akkadian/ Sumarian) and no more than 2 course units of appropriate literature in translation.
- 3
May focus on at least two ancient civilizations. To be chosen in consultation with the major advisor.
Honors
Requirements: A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and a GPA of 3.5 in major related courses.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| MELC 4995 | Senior Conference | 1 |
| MELC 4999 | Independent Study | 1 |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.