Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures, BA: Arabic & Islamic Studies

Arabic and Islamic Studies focuses on languages and cultures of the wider Middle East in the context of Islamic Civilization. Because of the interdependence of language and culture, a primary emphasis is on gaining mastery of Middle Eastern languages such as Arabic, Persian, and Turkish, alongside coursework in history, religion, and culture.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 34. Double majors may entail more course units.

Curriculum

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

College General Education Requirements and Free Electives
Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives20
Major Requirements
Language Requirement
Elementary and Intermediate Arabic (ARAB 0100-0400) + 3 advanced Arabic courses:7
Readings in the Qur'an and Tafsir
Arabic Readings in Belles-Lettres
Arabic Readings in the Social Sciences and the Media
Readings in Arabic Literature
Introduction to Pre-Modern Arabic Texts
History & Fiction in Arabic
Or other advanced courses chosen in consultation with advisor
Breadth Requirement
MELC 0001/ANCH 0100/HIST 0730Introduction to the Ancient Middle East1
MELC 0002/HIST 0830The Making of the Middle East1
Concentration Requirements 2
Arabic Literature (Attribute ANAT)1
Arab, Islamic and Middle Eastern History (Attribute ANAI)1
Islamic Tradition (Attribute ANAR)1
Electives (Attribute ANAC)1
Select 1 course unit in Concentration Paper1
Total Course Units34
1

You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.

 
 
2

May focus on either Medieval or Modern Periods, to be chosen in consultation with the major advisor.

Minimum of one course each in History, Literature (original language or in translation) and Religion.

Honors

Required: A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and a GPA of 3.5 in major related courses.

MELC 4995Senior Conference1
MELC 4999Independent Study1

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.