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.
For more information: https://melc.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 + Sectors 1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| 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 0730 | Introduction to the Ancient Middle East | 1 |
| MELC 0002/HIST 0830 | The Making of the Middle East | 1 |
| Concentration Requirement: Persian Literature (with Attribute ANPL) | 1 | |
| Concentration Requirement: Persian History (with Attribute ANPH | 1 | |
| Concentration Requirement: Islamic Religion (with Attribute ANAR) | 1 | |
| Electives chosen in consultation with Major Advisor (with Attribute ANPC) | 2 | |
| 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.
Honors
Requirements: A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and a GPA of 3.5 in major related courses.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| MELC 4999 | Independent Study | 1 |
| MELC 4995 | Senior Conference | 1 |
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.