B.A. In Arabic Studies

The B.A. in Arabic Studies (42 credits) prepares students for a range of professional opportunities, including careers in government, education, business, international development and communication.The program provides students with resources to examine and interpret the various cultural systems of the Middle East through its texts, language, values, materials and practices. This includes the cultures of North Africa, Egypt, the Arabic-speaking countries of Asia, and the peoples of the diaspora. Many Arabic Studies undergraduates choose to double major in a wide variety of subjects, including Arts and Humanities, Business, Computer Science, and Journalism.

To sign up for an Arabic Studies major, you must:

  1. Satisfy the prerequisites
  2. Declare Major

Course Listing

Degree Requirements:

All courses are 3 credits unless noted otherwise.

  • 24 core language classes
  • At least 18 credits (minimum of 9 in upper level) electives in Arabic
  • Up to 9 credits of ARAB electives in English
  • No grade lower than a C (2.0) may be used toward the major

Core Language Courses (24 credits):

  • ARAB 204 Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic I (6)
  • ARAB 205 Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic II (6)
  • ARAB 304 Advanced Modern Standard Arabic I
  • ARAB 305 Advanced Modern Standard Arabic II
  • ARAB 206 Intermediate Egyptian Colloquial Arabic III
  • ARAB 207 Intermediate Egyptian Colloquial Arabic IV

Electives in Arabic (minimum of 18 credits):

Minimum of 9 Upper-level elective credits in Arabic

  • ARAB 311 The Arab World Today
  • ARAB 312 Islamic Culture
  • ARAB 321 Arabic Media
  • ARAB 322 Commercial Arabic
  • ARAB 401 Readings in Arabic Literature
  • ARAB 402 Arabic Translation
  • ARAB 411 US-Arab Relations
  • ARAB 412 Modern Arabic Literature: A Survey
  • ARAB 499 Special Topics in Arabic Studies

Note: In consultation with the program advisor, students may be placed out of one or more of the Core Language courses and move directly to more advanced courses based on proficiency. All students must complete 42 credits of coursework to satisfy the requirements for the B.A.

Arab Electives in English (Maximum of 9 credits):

  • ARAB 251 Arabic Cinema
  • ARAB 252 Arabic Literature in Translation
  • ARAB 351 Arab Culture and Civilization
  • ARAB 499 Special Topics in Arabic Studies

Note: Courses in Middle Eastern Studies taught in English outside
the department may be substituted on approval of the program advisor.

For more information, email the Arabic UG advisor.