Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures, BA: Arabic Language and Literature
Arabic Language and Literature 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 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.
For more information: https://melc.sas.upenn.edu/undergraduate/major
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements 2 | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
| Elementary and Intermediate Arabic (ARAB 0100- ARAB 0400) + 3 advanced Arabic courses: | 7 | |
| Readings in the Qur'an and Tafsir | ||
| Arabic Readings in Belles-Lettres | ||
| 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 0730 | Introduction to the Ancient Middle East | 1 |
| MELC 0002/HIST 0830 | The Making of the Middle East | 1 |
| Concentration Requirements 3 | ||
| 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 for the 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
A minimum overall GPA of 2.0 and 7 Minimum Credits Earned from the University of Pennsylvania are required for non-Honors students.
- 3
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.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| MELC 4995 | Senior Conference | 1 |
| MELC 4999 | Independent Study | 1 |
Sample Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Course Units | |
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4.5 | |
| Course Units | 4.50 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4.5 | |
| Course Units | 4.50 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4.5 | |
| Course Units | 4.50 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4.5 | |
| Course Units | 4.50 | |
| Total Course Units | 34.00 | |