Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures, BA: Persian Languages & Literature

Persian Language and Literature focuses on the language and culture of Iran from the premodern to the modern periods as well as in the context of Islamic Civilization. Because of the interdependence of language and culture, a primary emphasis is on gaining mastery of Persian, 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 + Sectors 1 + Free Electives20
Major Requirements
Language Requirement
Elementary and Intermediate Persian (PERS 0100-0400) + 2 advanced Persian courses:6
Introduction to Persian Poetic Tradition
Modern Iran and the West Through the Lens of Fiction
Faces of Love: Gender, Sexuality and the Erotic in Persian Literature
Media and Culture in Contemporary Iran
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 Requirement: Persian Literature (with Attribute ANPL)1
Concentration Requirement: Persian History (with Attribute ANPH1
Concentration Requirement: Islamic Religion (with Attribute ANAR)1
Electives chosen in consultation with Major Advisor (with Attribute ANPC)2
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.

Honors

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

MELC 4999Independent Study1
MELC 4995Senior Conference1

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.